JPMorgan Chase & Co., the largest U.S. bank by assets, is ramping up hiring across its corporate banking business in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, aiming for a 20% increase in headcount in 2026.
This follows a similar expansion already achieved in 2025, where staffing levels in the division were raised by 20%—double the bank’s initial target for the year.
The hiring initiative is part of JPMorgan’s broader strategy to deepen its footprint in APAC, driven by rising intra-Asia trade, digital innovation, and growing demand from regional corporates seeking global expansion.
Oliver Brinkmann, Co-Head of Global Corporate Banking for APAC, announced the decision during JPMorgan’s CFO and Treasurers Forum held in Singapore on September 10.
Growth Opportunities Despite Industry Challenges
Oliver emphasized that JPMorgan views the current industry challenges as an opportunity to expand.
“It has come at a challenging time for some within the industry, and we think that is a great opportunity for us to expand,” he said.
He added that competition will intensify over the next three to four years, so the bank must act decisively.
Kerwin Clayton, Oliver’s Co-Head, echoed this sentiment, noting that the pace at which Asian companies are going global is fueling demand for JPMorgan’s services.
“From an Asia-Pacific standpoint, there is growth everywhere,” Kerwin said.
China and India Lead Regional Growth at JPMorgan
Despite concerns about China’s economic slowdown, JPMorgan remains optimistic.
Oliver reported that the bank’s China business is growing at 25% year-on-year, driven by demand from corporates and cross-border activity.
He pushed back against pessimism surrounding China’s property sector and trade disruptions, stating that JPMorgan continues to see strong performance in the market.
India also features prominently in JPMorgan’s regional strategy.
The bank is expanding its corporate banking presence in sectors such as electric vehicles, data centers, and solar energy, where capital expenditure is rising.
Oliver noted that JPMorgan’s India business has been growing revenue by 30% annually over the past two to three years, with expectations for continued momentum.
Focus Areas and Client Segments
JPMorgan is focusing its corporate banking expansion in APAC on sustainable energy, technology, diversified industries, and infrastructure.
The bank serves a wide range of clients, including mid-cap firms with revenues between $300 million and $2 billion, large-cap companies, and startups.
In India alone, JPMorgan caters to approximately 1,900 clients and operates corporate centers in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, employing over 55,000 people across its global operations.
The bank’s long-term strategic view remains unchanged despite geopolitical complexities, including increased tariffs on Indian imports.
JPMorgan is building its business in India and other APAC markets, Oliver stated, regardless of short-term trade disruptions.
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