Nomura targets Asian infra with new Singapore office

Japanese financial services group Nomura plans to establish a new Asia Infrastructure Project Office, in Singapore, to expand its Asian infrastructure footprint. 

The firm will hire eight to nine people from the industry to be based in the new office, which is slated to open in August, sources familiar with the matter told Infrastructure Investor. Eventually, Nomura also hopes to set up a principal fund from its own account to invest in infrastructure projects in Asia, including emerging regions, the sources added.  

“It's a completely new business. They will need industry professionals with experience and expertise,” said the sources. Setting up a team in Singapore will help the firm tap into opportunities in Southeast Asia and other emerging markets.

With a focus on sourcing funds to finance Asian infrastructure projects, the office will provide advisory services and help connect global investors with opportunities in the region, as they increasingly seek alternative investments, according to a statement from Nomura. 

“This is an exciting development for Nomura, as we look to help our clients in Asia add value to their businesses through investment in infrastructure projects,” said Mitsutoshi Murakata, head of the Asia Infrastructure Project Office, in the statement. 

“Nomura's long-term strategy is focused on the growth of Asia and we want to help facilitate the development of the region by connecting markets east and west as Asia's global investment bank,” added Murakata. 

Nomura declined to comment on the recruitment process and the potential establishment of the new fund.