FINOLAB RESEARCH is a research organization aimed at collecting, analyzing, and explaining information
related to financial business and advanced technologies that will support the business development of
FINOLAB community members. It also strives to disseminate information that contributes to the
expansion of Japan's FinTech ecosystem both domestically and internationally.

CONTENTS
FINOLAB COLUMN
We provide articles explaining trends in FinTech through contributions to the FinTech Journal.
FinTech Topics
The 「FINOLAB CHANNEL」 on YouTube features videos that delve into the latest trends in FinTech.
Various Reports
We conduct in-depth analyses on distinct themes, including specific cases of innovation, fundraising trends, and projections for future societies.
Research Resources
We curate a selection of links to articles, reports, blogs, newsletters, and informational resources, offering valuable references for our audience.
Head of FINOLAB

Makoto Shibata
Head of FINOLAB, Chief Community Officer
Makoto Shibata has been leading FINOLAB since its inception, leveraging his extensive background in finance and technology. A graduate of the University of Tokyo, he began his career at Tokyo Bank and earned a Master’s in Development Economics from Oxford University. Since 1998, he has focused on financial IT research and innovation, previously working at JDD to promote innovation within MUFG. He has played a key role in fostering Japan's FinTech community and was a co-founder of FINOVATORS.


FINOLAB COLUMN
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[On-Site Report] Money 20/20 2025 Asia, One of the World’s Largest Fintech Events: Introducing 6 Emerging Startups Unknown to Japanese Audiences
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[summary] Too Scary… What Are the Latest Cases in “AI-Generated Crime”? Trends and Regulatory Changes.
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[Summary] Scandals Continuing in Financial Institutions: Strengthening Internal Crime Prevention


FinTech Topics
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[Summary] The Rise of Online Pawnshops: Blending Traditional Finance with Digital Innovation | FinTech Topics #115
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[Summary] Amendment to the Payment Services Act (2025) – Summary of Key Points | FinTech Topics #114
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[Summary] Diversification of Online and Mobile Banks: Leveraging BaaS and New Industry Entrants | FinTech Topics #113