Strong Q1 Performance: Nomura reported group net revenue of JPY523.3 billion for Q1, a 16% increase from the previous quarter. Income before income taxes grew 64% to JPY160.3 billion, and net income rose by 45% to JPY104.6 billion. Earnings per share (EPS) reached JPY34.04, marking high profitability levels reflecting operational strength despite a challenging market environment.

Division Growth: All four divisions, including the newly established banking division, reported sequential revenue and profit growth. Wealth management net revenue rose 6% to JPY105.8 billion, supported by growth in consulting services and consistent net inflow of recurring revenue assets for 13 consecutive quarters.

Investment Banking Outlook: There¡¯s a promising pipeline for M&A advisory and strong corporate governance sentiment in Japan. Despite a seasonal slowdown in equity capital markets (ECM), overall corporate activity in Japan remains robust, indicating potential for stable deal completion in the upcoming quarters.