Mizuno to use 3 billion yen of funds raised for share buybacks

Mizuno to use 3 billion yen of funds raised for share buybacks

Mizuho Financial Group Expands Share Buyback Program Amid Profit Growth

Japan’s third-largest banking group, Mizuho Financial Group (8411.T), reported a 14% year-on-year increase in third-quarter net profit, driven by improved operational performance and strategic cost management. Net profit for the October–December 2025 period rose to 329.9 billion yen ($2.13 billion), up from 289.2 billion yen in the same period of 2024. The bank maintained its annual profit forecast for the fiscal year ending March 2026 at 1.13 trillion yen, aligning with its revised guidance from the prior quarter.

In tandem with its earnings report, Mizuho announced an expansion of its share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in its capital position and commitment to shareholder returns. The board approved an increase in the total repurchase cap from 200 billion yen to 300 billion yen, with the buyback period extended to March 31, 2026. The revised plan allows for the repurchase of up to 65 million shares, up from 60 million previously, while the cancellation date of repurchased shares has been postponed to April 22, 2026.

The move underscores Mizuho’s capital policy of balancing growth investments, capital adequacy, and shareholder distributions. The bank emphasized a total payout ratio of at least 50%, combining dividends and buybacks, to enhance returns amid evolving market conditions. Analysts note that the expanded program, coupled with Mizuho’s strong profit growth, signals a strategic focus on optimizing equity structure while maintaining financial flexibility.

As of February 26, 2026, Mizuho’s shares traded with a year-to-date gain of 19%, reflecting investor confidence in its capital allocation strategy and operational resilience. The bank’s actions align with broader industry trends of Japanese financial institutions prioritizing shareholder returns amid low-interest-rate environments and competitive pressures.

(https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/mizuho-books-14-rise-third-quarter-profit-2026-02-02/): Mizuho’s third-quarter profit figures, as reported by Reuters.
(https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/MZHOF/pressreleases/37373158/mizuho-expands-and-extends-share-buyback-lifts-cap-to-yen300-billion/): Share buyback program details from Mizuho’s official announcement.