Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) has overtaken its domestic peers to become Japan’s most valuable listed company, with its market capitalization reaching 42 trillion yen ($226 billion) on Monday.

The milestone marks a significant shift in the hierarchy of Japanese equities, elevating the banking sector above traditional industrial and technology giants that have long dominated the Nikkei 225.

The valuation surge is underpinned by a structural shift in Japan’s financial landscape.

As the Bank of Japan continues to normalize monetary policy, rising interest rates are expanding net interest margins for major lenders.

This fundamental improvement in profitability has attracted sustained buying interest from both domestic and international investors, driving MUFG’s shares to record highs.

This development aligns with broader trends in Japanese capital markets.