Aozora Regional Consulting, the new unit, will focus on developing the firm's advisory business for customers of regional financial institutions. The new subsidiary is based in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo and headed by Toshihiko Hokari as chief executive. 

The move is part of the bank's ongoing efforts to expand its range of services and enhance focus on business recovery advisory. Aozora Bank currently has 19 branches in Japan and regional representative offices in Singapore, Seoul, Jakarta, Shanghai and Hong Kong.