#Japan #Tokyo #Money Forward #JCB #Orico

Strategic Partnership for AI-Driven Corporate Lending

In a significant move towards enhancing corporate services, three major players in the financial sector—JCB, Orico, and Money Forward X—have announced a partnership focused on corporate business. This collaboration aims to implement an AI-driven credit assessment model in their corporate services starting in the fall of 2025. The initiative will be integrated into JCB's funding management platform, 'Cashmap,' which caters to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole proprietorships.

What is 'Cashmap'?

Developed with the support of Money Forward X, 'Cashmap' is a comprehensive cash flow management portal launched by JCB specifically for SMEs and sole proprietors. The platform provides one-stop support for managing and visualizing cash inflows and outflows, projecting future financial scenarios, and connecting users with cash flow improvement services. With the upcoming addition of an online lending feature, 'Cashmap' aims to further streamline cash management for its users.

New Lending Feature

The online lending functionality will utilize the newly developed AI credit assessment model, a collaboration between Orico and Money Forward X. This model will automatically analyze users' bank account information linked with 'Cashmap' to propose customized loan terms from Orico. By referencing these terms, users can conveniently apply for loans directly within the 'Cashmap' platform. This feature is anticipated to launch by the fall of 2025, making it easier for SMEs to access necessary funding when they need it most.

Strengthening Ties

JCB and Money Forward X have previously collaborated in developing services for corporate and sole proprietorship customers. Meanwhile, Orico has been working with Money Forward X to integrate the AI credit assessment model into local financial institutions' offerings through the 'Mikata' series. By merging their strengths, the three companies believe they can successfully address the financial challenges faced by SMEs and improve service value.

The partnership will not only focus on lending services but will also explore ways to collaborate effectively in other areas, leveraging each partner's strengths for broader support of SMEs.

What Makes 'Cashmap' Unique?

'Cashmap' sets itself apart by allowing users to manage various bank account and credit card data in one place, from cash inflow and outflow management to overall cash flow improvement. JCB initially rolled out this service in March 2025 for its corporate cardholders and plans to gradually expand its features, with services such as factoring also on the horizon.

The Role of the AI Credit Assessment Model

The AI credit assessment model is built on Orico’s credit assessment know-how and Money Forward X’s data analysis expertise. This unique model forecasts changes in cash flow and funding conditions, providing insights that can significantly benefit corporations. Future initiatives aim to promote this model within local financial institutions as well as among affiliated entities of Orico.

About the Companies

JCB Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: Minato, Tokyo, Japan
• - Established: January 1961
• - Business: Credit card operations, loans, payment services, and more.
• - Website: JCB Official Site

Orico Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
• - Founded: December 1954
• - Business: Credit installment, card and loan services, payment guarantees, and international operations.
• - Website: Orico Official Site

Money Forward X Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: Minato, Tokyo, Japan
• - Established: December 2024
• - Business: Development and provision of financial services.
• - Website: Money Forward X Official Site

This strategic partnership and the upcoming AI capabilities promise to reshape how SMEs approach cash management, setting a new standard for efficiency and accessibility in corporate lending.