Japanese bank trains staff for a novel scenario: positive interest rates

As Japan approaches the end of eight years of negative interest rates, a regional lender in Kyoto is taking proactive steps to train its staff for operating in a positive interest rate environment.

Bank of Kyoto is offering e-learning sessions to educate approximately 3,300 employees on the significance of interest rates, how lending rates are determined, and the impact of rising interest rates on the bank’s operations and clients. These sessions also involve experienced executives sharing their insights from previous periods of positive interest rates, particularly focusing on strategies to persuade borrowers to accept higher charges.

The e-training, delivered in 30-minute sessions accessible via smartphones, aims to equip younger staff with the skills needed to navigate intensified competition for deposits. Practical guidance is also provided on effectively communicating with borrowers about rising lending rates and enhancing deposit acquisition through improved customer interactions.

Source: Reuters