A major business announcement in Charlotte today: Japanese bank SMBC Group says it has chosen the city for its second U.S. headquarters, bringing about 2,000 jobs and a $50.5 million investment.
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein celebrated the announcement in a news conference at the Foundation for the Carolinas in uptown.
"Just in case the folks didn’t hear that in the back — that’s 2,000 good paying jobs and a $50 million investment," Stein said.
The bank says the new positions will pay an average salary of $165,000 a year.
Hiro Otsuka, CEO of SMBC Americas, said Charlotte beat out Jacksonville, Florida, for the project.
"This is a significant, long-term commitment — one that reflects our confidence in this region, and our plan to build lasting roots here," Otsuka said.
SMBC's current U-S headquarters is in New York City. The company could receive more than $72 million in government incentives if hiring and investment goals are reached.
