Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

Statement on Media Reports on Kaupthing Bank hf

TOKYO, October 28, 2008 --- Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. made a statement on today’s media reports concerning deferred coupon repayment of a Yen denominated bond (Samurai bond) issued by the Kaupthing Bank hf in Iceland.

While Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation provides settlement services as an agent of the bond, it neither guarantees nor holds the bond.