Credit Suisse has announced the official launch of its private banking operation in Japan.

Led from Tokyo by Junya Tani, head of private banking Japan for Credit Suisse, the move allows the bank to deliver the full suite of its integrated financial services to its clients in Japan.

Walter Berchtold, chief executive of Private Banking, said: "In the first quarter of 2009, Credit Suisse achieved a net income attributable to shareholders of CHF 2bn and a return on equity attributable to shareholders of 22.6%. The combination of a strong capital position, strong funding and liquidity, well-positioned businesses, a robust business model, a clear strategy, a significantly lower risk profile with one of the cleanest balance sheets in the industry and no government ownership makes Credit Suisse a trusted partner for clients.

"Across the globe, Credit Suisse consistently uses its integrated model with private banking, investment banking and asset management to serve clients with the holistic solutions they require. With the complementary nature of its three businesses, the breadth and depth of its business expertise across the bank as well as a structured approach to client advisory, Credit Suisse has significant experience and expertise in serving particularly ultra high net worth clients."

Operating out of Tokyo, Credit Suisse provides its private banking services through its banking entity, Credit Suisse Tokyo Branch, and its securities entity, Credit Suisse Securities (Japan) Limited. It is focused on serving wealthy individuals, families and corporations with more than Yen 1 bn yen in financial assets.