Why SBI’s CEO Is Talking About Ripple, Blockchain, and the Rare 2026 Fire Horse Year

Yoshitaka Kitao, CEO of SBI Holdings, has shared a thoughtful message linking ancient history with modern technology, as Japan prepares for the rare “Fire Horse” year of 2026, a cycle that appears only once every 60 years. In his remarks, Kitao opened up about how this period is often seen as powerful but demanding, especially for businesses enjoying success.

A Warning During Good Times

Kitao explained that even when a company is doing well, danger can quietly build up. He warned that arrogance and overconfidence are the biggest threats during periods of growth. According to him, strong leadership requires clear judgment and courage, especially when things seem to be going smoothly.

Long-Term Vision Over Short-Term Noise

Looking beyond 2026, Kitao stressed the importance of thinking in decades, not quarters. He reminded readers that as far back as 2018, SBI identified AI and blockchain as the technologies that would drive the biggest changes in society. Since then, the group has consistently invested in these areas and built a full crypto ecosystem.

Ripple Gets a Special Spotlight

Additionally, Ripple Labs received a special mention. Kitao revealed that SBI invested in Ripple around ten years ago, acquiring roughly 10% of the company. Today, that early decision has paid off, with blockchain and crypto-related businesses becoming a major source of revenue for the SBI Group. This long-term partnership shows how early belief in blockchain technology is now shaping real-world financial systems.

“Furthermore, it was about ten years ago that we invested in Ripple Labs in the U.S. and acquired approximately 10% of its shares. Needless to say, these fields currently play a major role in the SBI Group’s revenue stream,” he wrote.

A Year of Truth and Clarity

The SBI chief also described 2026 as a year when hidden problems come into the open. Long-ignored issues, he said, will become impossible to ignore. He pointed to recent global and Japanese examples where long-standing allegations are now being exposed. His message was simple: businesses must stay honest, disciplined, and careful in their actions.