SMFG prices largest-ever Japan bank equity offering

In a move that was either brilliantly timed or very lucky -- or more likely a bit of both -- the smallest of Japan's three megabanks by assets, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group SMFG yesterday raised 803 billion $8.2 billion from a sale of new shares, which could increase to 923 billion $9.4 billion if the greenshoe is exercised in full, just as the markets look set to turn down after a long rebound.

The deal represents the largest amount raised from an equity financing by any Japanese bank on record. According to Dealogic, it is almost 60% larger than the former follow-on record of $5.2...