JOHOKU SHINKIN BANK, which operates primarily in the Tokyo and Saitama areas, will exhibit for the first time at "Virtual Market 2026 Summer," one of the world's largest metaverse events, which has achieved four Guinness World RecordsTM and will be held from July 11 (Sat) to July 26 (Sun), 2026, hosted by HIKKY Co., Ltd. At its booth, themed "Dreams and Money," the bank aims to create new customer touchpoints and expand brand recognition through content that allows visitors to learn about the bank's initiatives. [Background of This Exhibition] JOHOKU SHINKIN BANK has supported local businesses and individuals financially, and has walked alongside the community by supporting those who challenge themselves towards their dreams and goals. In recent years, as ways of connecting with people and the nature of communities change, the bank has been working to create new touchpoints that are not limited by its traditional business areas, including the internet branch newly opened this month. Virtual Market is a place where many creators and challengers gather from around the world, giving birth to new expressions and activities. JOHOKU SHINKIN BANK decided to exhibit at this event with the desire to extend its "stance of supporting people's challenges and futures," which it has cherished in the community, to the new communities spreading in virtual space. [Comment from Kōtarō Ōmae, Chairman of JOHOKU SHINKIN BANK] Our bank has aimed to be a "regional platformer" that connects various aspirations and challenges of people, businesses, and regions, not limited to finance. In recent years, communication and experiences on the internet, such as social media, have become commonplace, and touchpoints between consumers and companies have become greatly diversified. In light of these environmental changes, our bank opened a non-face-to-face internet branch, "Ochanoma Branch," in June 2026, taking the first step towards creating new connections with people nationwide. This exhibition