Morgan Stanley Japan's credit research team topped the Nikkei's Bond & Money Newsletter credit analyst rankings in its influential annual fixed income research poll. This was the first year credit research has been included in the poll, reflecting its growing importance with Japanese investors. Shinji Okabe ranked #1 in the credit analyst category and Mana Nakazora ranked #9 among all credit analysts.

"These rankings are a significant achievement for the Tokyo credit research team and underscore the value of Morgan Stanley's long-term commitment to providing clients credit research," said Jon Kindred, Co-Head of the Fixed Income Division, Japan/Asia Pacific. "We are particularly pleased with this ranking, since outstanding research is one of the key elements of our strategy to deliver on our objective of being first choice for our clients."

Factors taken into account for the rankings included the analysts' accuracy of forecasts/views as well as timely information distribution. The Nikkei noted that Mr. Okabe's extensive knowledge of the banks, non-banks and "special companies" areas was particularly highly appreciated by investors.

Okabe and Nakazora are part of a Global Credit Research group that comprises 37 professionals, seven of which are based in the Japan/Asia Pacific region.