TOKYO, July 14, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Takayoshi Futae, Chairman and CEO; hereinafter "JCB") hereby announces that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with an affiliate of Circle Internet Group, Inc. (“Circle”) (NYSE:CRCL), to explore collaboration utilizing stablecoins.

Under this MOU, JCB and Circle will explore collaboration opportunities that combine Circle’s stablecoin payment infrastructure with JCB's global merchant network to advance cross-border payments and develop new payment experiences for merchants and customers.

Background of the MOU

Stablecoins are gaining attention around the world as a foundation for creating a new ecosystem in cashless societies, given their high level of convenience, and the market is expanding rapidly. In particular, the use of stablecoins in payments is expected to bring a wide range of benefits, including reducing the burden of currency exchange for inbound tourists, further improving the efficiency of fund settlement, and improving cash flow for merchants.

Against this backdrop, Circle has developed a full suite of stablecoin and blockchain infrastructure including USDC, EURC, Gateway and Arc, designed to support next-generation payment and settlement applications.

As a global payments company, JCB is actively exploring new technologies that can enhance payment experiences for consumers and merchants while improving the efficiency of payment infrastructure.

The MOU establishes a framework for ongoing collaboration between JCB and Circle, as they evaluate the application of stablecoin-enabled payment infrastructure across global payment use cases.

Collaboration topics under consideration

Under the agreement, the two companies will primarily explore collaboration in the following areas:

1. Cross-border treasury and payments

By utilizing USDC, the companies will explore opportunities to enhance cross-border treasury operations and payments. Initial efforts will include a proof of concept (PoC) focused on JCB’s internal fund transfers. The companies will evaluate opportunities to improve payment efficiency, reduce remittance costs, and support broader cross-border payment flows.

2. Stablecoin-enabled payments at merchants in Japan

The companies will explore in-store stablecoin payment experiences for merchants and international visitors to Japan, while evaluating technologies that support interoperability and seamless payment experiences across multiple blockchain networks.

Beyond these initial areas of exploration, JCB and Circle will continue to evaluate additional opportunities for collaboration that leverage stablecoin infrastructure to deliver new payment experiences for consumers and merchants.

JCB’s Initiatives to Bring Stablecoin Payments into Practical Use in Japan

In January 2026, JCB also began collaboration with Digital Garage, Inc. ("Digital Garage") and Resona Holdings, Inc. ("Resona HD") toward the real-world implementation of stablecoin payments (*). In that collaboration, with Digital Garage as a partner, JCB has been identifying issues and examining solutions for enabling stablecoin payments at merchants in Japan through a proof of concept for stablecoin payments at physical stores.

Through collaboration with Circle, Digital Garage, Resona HD, and other companies, JCB will contribute to the real-world implementation of stablecoin payments in Japan and overseas, as well as to the creation of a new payments ecosystem.

(*) Press release dated January 16, 2026: "JCB, Digital Garage, and Resona Holdings Begin Collaboration Toward the Real-World Implementation of Stablecoin Payments"
https://www.global.jcb/ja/press/2026/202601161100_others.pdf

TOKYO, July 9, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd. (JCB), Resona Holdings, Inc. (Resona) and ODAWARA AUTO-MACHINE MFG. Co., Ltd. (ODAWARA) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly develop and implement Ultra-Wideband (UWB) wireless payment solutions for public bus services.

This initiative builds on the basic agreement signed on March 4, 2026, between JCB and Resona for the commercialization of UWB payments. With ODAWARA — Japan’s leading manufacturer of fare collection equipment for transit operators — joining the alliance, the three companies will accelerate the practical application of this technology in the public transportation sector.

UWB is a next-generation wireless communication technology that features high-speed data transmission and highly accurate positioning capabilities. Unlike conventional contactless (NFC) or QR code payments, UWB enables completely hands-free transactions. Passengers can board and alight seamlessly without the need to tap smartphones or scan devices.

Background and Objectives

While global expectations for UWB applications in standard ticket gates and retail checkouts are rising, hands-free solutions for open-boarding public transportation — such as buses and streetcars without physical gates — have remained technologically challenging.

Concurrently, the Japanese bus industry faces critical challenges, including driver shortages and an aging workforce. Drivers are increasingly burdened by managing diverse payment methods and assisting passengers with fare inquiries, which often causes delays during peak congestion.

To address these pressing issues, JCB, Resona, and ODAWARA will launch a joint project in collaboration with active bus operators. Technical and payment verification (including precise boarding/alighting data capture) will commence in FY2026, with small-scale commercial rollouts in FY2027, aiming for full-scale commercial deployment in FY2028.

Roadmap

FY2026: Launch of technical trials and Proof of Concept (PoC) with bus operators
FY2027: Initial small-scale commercial implementation
FY2028: Full-scale commercial deployment and expansion

Anticipated Benefits

For Passengers (Users):

• Completely Hands-Free: No need to take out smartphones, wallets, or cards when boarding or exiting.
• Personalized Mobility Services: Real-time, location-based value delivery via smartphones or in-vehicle displays, including targeted coupons, loyalty points, transit guidance, and congested-route alerts.  

For Bus Operators:

• Operational Efficiency: Significant reduction in driver workload by eliminating manual fare handling and onboard payment troubleshooting.
• Enhanced Safety and Punctuality: Shorter boarding times mitigate delays, allowing drivers to focus entirely on safe driving.
• Data-Driven Operations: Leveraging high-precision UWB location data to visualize congestion patterns and optimize fleet scheduling.

Future Outlook

As part of this strategic collaboration, ODAWARA has officially joined the FiRa® Consortium to actively promote the global standardization of UWB technology in transit payment use cases. Together with consortium partners, JCB, Resona, and ODAWARA will drive technical architecture standardization and user experience (UX) design.

Looking beyond public transportation, the three companies intend to collaborate with a diverse range of domestic and international partners to expand the UWB payment ecosystem into smart retail, MaaS (Mobility as a Service), and smart city infrastructure.

Corporate Profiles & Media Contacts

About FiRa Consortium

The FiRa Consortium is a member-driven organization dedicated to transforming the way we interact with our environment by enabling precise location awareness for people and devices using the secured fine-ranging and positioning capabilities of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. FiRa does this by driving the development of technical specifications and certification, advocating for effective regulations, and by defining a broad set of use cases for UWB. To learn more about UWB and the FiRa Consortium, visit: www.firaconsortium.org.

About ODAWARA AUTO-MACHINE MFG. Co., Ltd.

Guided by our corporate motto, “Serving society with a pioneering spirit,” we specialize in fare collection equipment for public transportation, such as local buses. By delivering innovative products, services, and digital transformation (DX) solutions, we aim to improve the sustainability of public transportation and revitalize local communities.

For more information, please visit: https://www.odawarakiki.com/ 

About Resona Holdings, Inc.

With the Group's purpose of "Beyond Finance, for a Brighter Future." we continue to take on the challenge of transformation and creation in order to transform the future into a positive one with ideas that go beyond the framework of finance. Adhering to our basic stance of "customer joy is Resona's joy," we will work to "strengthen value creativity" and "next-generation management infrastructure" to respond to customers and local communities.

For more information, please visit: https://www.resona-gr.co.jp/holdings/english/

About JCB Co., Ltd.

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide.

For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Media Contacts

JCB Corporate Communications
Anna Takeda
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

ODAWARA AUTO-MACHINE MFG. Co., Ltd.
Email: contact_NBPD@odawarakiki.com 

TOKYO, July 6, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Chairman & Chief Executive Officer: Takayoshi Futae; hereinafter: JCB), Japan’s only international payment brand, and MUFG Bank, Ltd. (President & CEO: Masakazu Osawa), a consolidated subsidiary of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (President & Group CEO: Junichi Hanzawa; hereinafter "MUFG"), have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding a comprehensive strategic alliance in the ASEAN region.

This alliance aims to leverage our complementary strengths by utilizing both companies’ customer bases and financial and payment networks to jointly drive business expansion and create new value across ASEAN.

Purpose and Background of the Alliance

In ASEAN, sustained economic growth is driving the expansion of the affluent segment, alongside the growing adoption of digital payments. As a result, demand for financial and payment services is becoming increasingly sophisticated and diverse.

In this context, MUFG Bank’s partner bank network, investments in digital businesses, and financial infrastructure will be combined with JCB’s global payment network, Japan’s largest merchant network, and extensive service expertise. By integrating these capabilities with financial services, such as deposits and investments, the two companies aim to create new value, particularly in affluent customer segments and digital payment areas.

Key Areas of Collaboration

1. Strengthening Financial Services for Affluent Customers in ASEAN
   Leveraging partnerships with MUFG’s partner banks, we will offer card products that provide exclusive and unique experiences and benefits in Japan for affluent customers in ASEAN. In addition, by linking these card products with financial services, such as deposits and investments, we will deliver enhanced value. As an initial initiative in fiscal year 2026 (ending March 2027), we plan to issue a new premium card in Indonesia, which will be JCB’s highest-tier card ever issued outside Japan.
   
   
2. Expansion of Collaboration in the ASEAN Payment Domain
   Both companies will explore collaboration between MUFG’s investees in the digital finance sector and JCB’s payment capabilities. Through these efforts, we will consider expanding cross-border payment solutions and mobile services, with the aim of accelerating the development of digital payment ecosystems in ASEAN.

By combining their customer bases and payment expertise, the two companies will promote the advancement of financial services and create new business opportunities and synergies.

Building Partnerships with Japanese Companies and Promoting Japan as a Tourism-Oriented Nation

This alliance aims to establish and expand a “Japan-led financial and payment partnership platform” centered on MUFG Bank and JCB in ASEAN. Building on this foundation, we will broaden partnerships not only with partner banks and digital financial players but also with a wide range of Japanese companies, thereby enhancing the global reach of Japanese brands and services.

Beyond financial and payment services, the alliance will drive new business creation through collaboration with Japanese companies and contribute to strengthening Japan’s presence in ASEAN.

Through these initiatives, both companies aim to help build a new economic sphere connecting ASEAN and Japan, while supporting efforts to further position Japan as a leading tourism destination.

Branding Image

Future Developments

Based on this MOU, both companies will move forward with concrete initiatives. Leveraging this alliance, we will further expand partnerships with Japanese companies and strive to achieve sustainable growth and create new value in ASEAN.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

TOKYO // TAIPEI, July 1, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, and JCB International (Taiwan) Co., Ltd., announced the launch of JCB contactless payment acceptance on the Taipei Metro.

The Taipei Metro, which commenced operations in 1996, is a major urban mass transit system connecting Taipei City and New Taipei City. The network consists of multiple lines with a total length of over 100 kilometers and numerous stations serving key areas. It is widely used for daily commuting as well as by tourists. Along its routes are many of Taiwan’s iconic attractions, including Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Ximending, and the Shilin Night Market, making it an essential transportation option for both residents and visitors.

With the introduction of JCB contactless payment on the Taipei Metro, JCB Cardmembers can simply tap their contactless JCB Cards or compatible devices at ticket gates to ride. This eliminates the need to purchase tickets or reload transit cards, providing a smoother and more seamless travel experience.

In Taiwan, JCB contactless payments are already available not only on the Taipei Metro (including the Circular Line of New Taipei Metro) but also on the Kaohsiung Metro, Taoyuan Metro, and Taichung Metro.

JCB contactless payments are increasingly being adopted across public transportation systems worldwide, contributing to improved convenience for both daily travel and tourism. JCB will continue to promote cashless solutions in the transportation sector and strive to expand usage scenarios while enhancing customer convenience.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp　

TOKYO / MANILA, June 26, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB, Japan’s leading international payment brand, has strengthened its presence in the Philippines through a strategic partnership with Philippine National Bank (PNB) with the launch of the new PNB JCB Platinum Credit Card.

Developed to address the evolving spending habits of Filipino consumers, the card is designed for individuals who increasingly manage a mix of digital, in-person, and international spending. It supports everyday transactions while offering added convenience for travel and larger purchases, combining rewarding earn rates, flexible payment features, and access to JCB’s extensive network, particularly in Japan and other key destinations.

Among the card’s key features is an auto-convert installment option that allows eligible online purchases of at least PHP30,000 to be automatically converted into a three-month installment plan without monthly add-on interest, offering greater flexibility in managing expenses.

Designed to make every purchase more rewarding, the PNB JCB Platinum Credit Card enables cardholders to earn rewards points on their everyday transactions. Cardholders receive one point for every PHP70 spent, with an enhanced earn rate of one point for every PHP40 spent in Japan or on transactions billed in Japanese Yen. These rewards can be redeemed as cash credits toward outstanding balances, allowing cardholders to enjoy greater value while benefiting from JCB’s strong connection to Japan and its unique lifestyle experiences.

A key differentiator of the card is access to JCB-exclusive privileges and experiences. Cardholders can enjoy entry to select overseas airport lounges, access to JCB’s multilingual concierge service while traveling, and exclusive benefits in Japan.

“We developed this card with our customers’ day-to-day needs in mind—from managing purchases more easily to making the most of travel opportunities,” said Edwin R. Bautista, President and CEO of PNB. “Our continued partnership with JCB allows us to offer features that are practical, accessible, and relevant to how people spend today.”

“Through this partnership, PNB JCB Cardholders can look forward to a more rewarding journey,” said Masaki Yokawa, President and CEO of JCB International Co., Ltd. “Beyond earning rewards points faster, cardholders will gain access to exclusive JCB privileges—from airport lounge access and curated dining offers to merchant promotions across the country. These benefits reflect our commitment to delivering elevated experiences that combine convenience, prestige, and Japanese hospitality.”

The card is designed for today’s consumers whose spending spans digital payments, dining, and travel, reflecting broader shifts in consumer behavior. Its features are intended to complement these patterns by combining flexibility with rewards and access.

JCB has established a strong global footprint, working closely with financial institution partners to provide secure, innovative payment solutions and distinctive cardholder benefits, with a particular focus on enhancing the travel experience.

The launch was commemorated through a ceremonial signing held on May 19, 2026, attended by executives from JCBI and PNB, reaffirming the organizations’ shared commitment to delivering innovative payment solutions and enhanced value to Filipino consumers. The event marked a significant milestone in the partnership between the two institutions as they continue to respond to the evolving financial and lifestyle needs of Filipino consumers.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: http://www.global.jcb/en/

About Philippine National Bank

Philippine National Bank is one of the country’s largest private universal banks in terms of assets and deposits. It provides a full range of banking and other financial services to its highly diverse clientele comprised of individual depositors, small and medium enterprises, domestic and international corporations, government institutions, and overseas Filipinos. Backed by over a century of stability and excellence, PNB looks forward to more years of serving its customers. To know more about PNB, visit its official website: www.pnb.com.ph

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

Tokyo, London, and Madrid, June 23, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB is pleased to announce that JCB Contactless is now available for use on Metro de Madrid, enabling cardmembers to access the metro network with a simple tap of their card or mobile device.

From June 2026, passengers can enter metro stations by tapping their contactless-enabled JCB Cards or mobile wallets directly at fare gates. While card payments have already been available at metro station ticket machines, this new functionality allows users to bypass ticket purchases and access the network more efficiently, helping to reduce waiting times, particularly during peak hours, by tapping directly at fare gates.

The rollout covers Metro de Madrid’s extensive network of 303 stations and forms part of the operator’s broader modernization efforts to improve passenger flow and overall accessibility. The solution is supported by upgraded gate infrastructure, including EMV-enabled readers that allow secure contactless transactions with international payment cards and mobile devices.

The introduction of JCB Contactless at fare gates enhances accessibility for international travellers, including JCB Cardmembers visiting Madrid, by enabling direct and familiar access to public transportation without the need to purchase tickets in advance. This development also reflects the growing global trend of contactless transit payments in major metropolitan areas, supporting JCB’s continued expansion in Europe and its commitment to improving payment convenience for its more than 181 million cardmembers worldwide.

Ray Shinzawa, Managing Director, JCB Europe said: “Enabling JCB Contactless on Metro de Madrid represents an important step in expanding everyday acceptance for our cardmembers across Europe. Public transportation is a key touchpoint for international travellers, and by allowing passengers to simply tap and travel, this rollout makes the metro network more accessible and efficient, particularly during busy periods. As more cities adopt contactless transit solutions, we will continue to strengthen our acceptance network to deliver seamless and convenient payment experiences for our cardmembers worldwide.”

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Media Contacts:

JCB (Head Office in Japan) 
Anna Takeda
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp

JCB International (Europe) Ltd.
Diana Lee
Email: dlee@jcbeurope.eu