RSVP at the Registration Form by Sunday, November 30, 2025.

Abstract:
Since the launch of the "SARUBOBO Coin" (Hida Shinkin Bank, Gifu Prefecture) in 2017, we have successfully deployed a digital local currency system in 20 regions (as of December 2025).
By leveraging the underlying technologies of digital currency—namely, smartphones and internet infrastructure—these systems offer expanded possibilities and enhanced potential that go far beyond the traditional local currency.
Local communities face various challenges, such as a declining population. Against this backdrop, we are striving to establish this digital infrastructure as social capital—a foundational element for sustainable regional development that simultaneously addresses local social issues.
I would like to share the key insights and considerations we have gained through our efforts in building this crucial infrastructure for local economic resilience.

Speaker: Dr. Shuhei Kawata (President and CEO, finnovalley co., Ltd.)



Speakers’ Profile:
Graduated from Keio University in 1999 and began their career at PwC Consulting. BCG (Boston Consulting Group), GE, and SMS, managed community businesses for medical professionals such as nurse, pharmacist. Since 2018, Took CEO of finnovalley Co., Ltd., specializing in digital regional currency solutions. Appointed a Director at Kochi Shinkin-Bank in 2023. Focus on driving IT solutions to address social issues such as regional revitalization.

Moderator: Michiko Iizuka, Professor, GRIPS

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What is GRIPS Forum?
Since its establishment in 1997, the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) has promoted research and education on a wide variety of policy issues. The GRIPS Forum invites specialists from national and local governments as well as academic and business communities to promote policy studies and expand policy networks.