The Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) is set to implement a new requirement for all 1600 companies listed on its top-tier Prime market to disclose key information in English, starting in March 2025. The move is aimed at attracting more foreign investors to Japan’s top bourse and aligns with global trends where English-language disclosures are becoming increasingly common on non-English-speaking exchanges.

But what does this mean for sectors ranging from finance and technology to healthcare and beyond? In this blog, through the financial language maze, we will uncover the impact on different sectors, and explore the challenges of translating financial statements.

Which Sectors Will Be Affected?

The requirement for English disclosures by the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) is set to impact companies across various sectors listed on the top-tier Prime market.

  1. Technology Sector: The technology sector, encompassing companies involved in electronics, software development, and telecommunications, is poised to undergo significant impacts due to the Tokyo Stock Exchange’s (TSE) English disclosure requirement. Many technology firms listed on the Prime market operate on a global scale, with a substantial international investor base. English disclosures will be crucial for these companies to transparently communicate financial results, strategic plans, and other key information to a diverse group of stakeholders. Given the dynamic and competitive nature of the technology industry, compliance with these new rules is expected to enhance accessibility and understanding for foreign investors, fostering increased confidence in the Japanese tech market.
  1. Financial Institutions: Financial institutions, including banks and investment firms, constitute another sector affected by the TSE’s English disclosure mandate. These entities play a pivotal role in the global financial ecosystem, and their operations extend beyond national borders. The new requirement recognizes the international nature of financial markets and the diverse investor base these institutions serve. By ensuring transparency and facilitating effective communication, the TSE aims to bolster the attractiveness of Japanese financial firms to foreign investors.
  1. Manufacturing Sector: The manufacturing sector, which encompasses industries such as automotive, machinery, and chemicals, is integral to Japan’s economic landscape. Companies in this sector often have global supply chains and conduct business operations across multiple countries. English disclosures will be crucial for manufacturing firms to convey information on production performance, supply chain disruptions, and strategic decisions to international investors. The TSE’s initiative acknowledges the need for standardized communication in this sector, ensuring that investors worldwide can make informed decisions about their investments in Japanese manufacturing companies.
  1. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Healthcare and pharmaceutical companies involved in the research, development, and distribution of medical products and services constitute another sector affected by the TSE’s English disclosure mandate.

These companies operate in a highly regulated environment and are subject to rigorous scrutiny from investors, regulators, and the public. Clear and accessible English disclosures regarding clinical trial results, regulatory approvals, and product launches are essential for building trust and credibility with global stakeholders.

Challenges In Translating Financial Documents

The translation of bank statements can pose several challenges, as these documents are critical for financial transactions and often contain complex and specific terminology. Here are some challenges associated with translating bank statements:

  • Specialized Terminology: Financial documents contain specialized terminology, accounting principles, and industry-specific jargon that may not have direct equivalents in the target language. Translators need a deep understanding of both financial concepts and linguistic nuances to convey the intended meaning accurately.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Diverse Regulatory Frameworks: Financial documents must adhere to specific legal and regulatory requirements in different countries. Translators must be well-versed in the financial regulations of both the source and target languages to ensure accurate compliance and avoid potential legal issues.
  • Cultural and Contextual Differences: Financial documents often include cultural and contextual references that may not have equivalent expressions in the target language. Translators need to be aware of these nuances to maintain the document’s intended meaning and tone.
  • Numerical Accuracy: Different languages and regions may have distinct conventions for representing numbers, currencies, and dates. Translators must accurately convert numerical data while ensuring consistency with the financial standards of the target audience.
  • Consistency Across Documents: Financial documents are part of a broader set of corporate communications. Translators need to maintain consistency in terminology, style, and tone across various financial reports, ensuring a coherent and unified message for stakeholders.
  • Time Sensitivity: Financial information often requires prompt translation due to market sensitivity. Translators must work efficiently without compromising accuracy to meet tight deadlines for financial reporting.

How Ulatus Can Support in this Transition

Ulatus, a leading professional translation service provider, is well-equipped to support companies navigating the transition toward English disclosures. With a team of expert translators possessing a deep understanding of finance and regulatory landscapes, we ensure precise and contextually relevant translations. Our commitment to quality and adherence to stringent industry standards make it an ideal partner for companies seeking seamless financial translation and compliance with TSE’s new regulations.

The bottom line

The Tokyo Stock Exchange’s move towards English disclosures is symbolic of a broader global trend in financial markets. Navigating this shift requires a strategic and meticulous approach to financial translation. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, embracing professional translation services becomes imperative for companies seeking success in international