SBI Shinsei Bank (TYO:8303) has signed an investment cooperation agreement with 14 regional financial institutions to establish a collaboration framework in structured finance, according to a statement on Wednesday.

The partnership aims to expand regional banks' participation in LBOs, M&A, infrastructure, energy, and real estate financing projects, with approximately 10 more banks expected to join by the end of August.

Under the agreement, SBI Shinsei Bank will leverage its sponsor relationships and structuring capabilities to originate projects, while regional banks will participate as co-arrangers or lead lenders using their local customer bases and credit expertise.

The initiative seeks to promote regional circulation of growth capital, revitalize local economies, and help regional financial institutions accumulate advanced finance expertise.