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Stock Analysis & ValuationThe Shimizu Bank, Ltd. (8364.T)

Professional Stock Screener
Previous Close
¥2,510.00
Sector Valuation Confidence Level
High
Valuation methodValue, ¥Upside, %
Artificial intelligence (AI)7564.56201
Intrinsic value (DCF)532.58-79
Graham-Dodd Method6267.04150
Graham Formula3606.0744

Strategic Investment Analysis

Company Overview

The Shimizu Bank, Ltd. is a regional banking institution headquartered in Shizuoka, Japan, offering a comprehensive suite of financial services including cash calculation, credit guarantees, leasing, and credit card services. Established in 1928, the bank operates a network of 78 branches and 1 sub-branch, serving local businesses and individuals. Beyond traditional banking, Shimizu Bank engages in real estate management, personnel delegation, and financial research, positioning itself as a multifaceted financial services provider in Japan's competitive regional banking sector. The bank plays a crucial role in supporting regional economic activities, particularly in Shizuoka Prefecture, where it contributes to local development through tailored financial solutions. Despite challenges in profitability, Shimizu Bank maintains a stable presence with a focus on community banking and diversified financial services.

Investment Summary

The Shimizu Bank presents a mixed investment profile. On one hand, its regional focus and diversified services provide stability in Japan's competitive banking sector, supported by a long-standing presence in Shizuoka. The bank's low beta (0.196) suggests lower volatility compared to the broader market, which may appeal to risk-averse investors. However, the bank reported a net loss of ¥3.3 billion in the latest fiscal year, with negative EPS (-¥286.1) and operating cash flow (-¥62.8 billion), raising concerns about profitability and liquidity. The dividend yield, at ¥60 per share, offers some income appeal, but investors should weigh this against the bank's financial challenges. Given its regional niche, Shimizu Bank's performance is closely tied to Japan's economic conditions, particularly in its operating regions.

Competitive Analysis

The Shimizu Bank operates in Japan's highly competitive regional banking sector, where it faces pressure from both larger national banks and other regional players. Its competitive advantage lies in its deep regional roots and localized service offerings, which allow it to build strong relationships with local businesses and individuals. The bank's diversified services, including real estate management and leasing, provide additional revenue streams beyond traditional banking. However, its small scale (market cap ~¥15.2 billion) limits its ability to compete with larger banks in terms of technology investments and nationwide reach. The negative net income and operating cash flow highlight operational challenges, possibly due to margin compression in Japan's low-interest-rate environment or higher credit costs. Shimizu Bank's ability to maintain its regional focus while improving efficiency will be critical to its competitive positioning. Its real estate and leasing operations could differentiate it if managed effectively, but these also expose the bank to Japan's property market risks.

Major Competitors

  • The Chiba Bank, Ltd. (8331.T): Chiba Bank is a larger regional bank with a strong presence in the Chiba Prefecture, offering more scale and resources than Shimizu Bank. It has better profitability metrics and a wider branch network, but may lack Shimizu's hyper-local focus in Shizuoka. Chiba Bank's stronger financial position allows for greater investment in digital banking.
  • The Suruga Bank, Ltd. (8358.T): Suruga Bank operates in similar regional markets with a focus on retail banking. It has faced governance issues in recent years, which may present an opportunity for Shimizu to gain market share. However, Suruga has been more aggressive in digital transformation initiatives.
  • The Yamaguchi Financial Group, Inc. (8418.T): Yamaguchi Financial is a regional bank holding company with greater scale and geographic diversification than Shimizu. Its group structure provides synergies across banking and securities businesses, but it may lack Shimizu's localized service approach in Shizuoka.
  • The Japan Post Bank Co., Ltd. (7180.T): Japan Post Bank is a giant in Japan's banking sector with nationwide reach and massive deposit base. While it lacks Shimizu's local expertise, its scale and low-cost structure pose significant competition for deposits and lending business.
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