**Japan's SMBC Launches $630 Million Fund with U.S. Giant Neuberger Berman**

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) is launching a major new investment fund with U.S. partner Neuberger Berman. The fund's target is 100 billion yen, or approximately $630 million. This joint fund will focus on providing loans to mid-sized Japanese companies. These companies are often seen as stable and creditworthy but may not have easy access to large-scale growth funding. The move is a direct effort by Japan’s second-largest bank to capture more business in this competitive market segment. SMBC will source the potential borrowers, while Neuberger Berman will manage the fund's investment strategy and attract global investors. Industry analysts view this as a significant strategic partnership. It combines SMBC's deep local network with Neuberger Berman's global investment expertise. The fund is expected to be operational by the end of this year.