In 1989, Wako Securities (和光証券) collaborated with Sanrio to create panda mascot characters. Very little information is known about these characters, including their names. Wako Securites had previously used pandas in older TV spots and promotional goods since the 70s, so they were already associated with pandas prior. Various promotional goods were produced, including bags, apparel, coin banks, and more.
There are two main characters, a panda boy in blue overalls, and a panda girl in a red dress. The phrase "It's a beautiful day..." is often featured on their merchandise.
In April 2000, Shinnihon Securities and Wako Securities merged on an equal footing (with Shinnihon Securities as the surviving company), and the company name was changed to Shinko Securities. The panda characters were seemingly retired around this time. In May 2009, Shinko Securities merged with the former Mizuho Securities and changed its name to the new Mizuho Securities as the surviving company (the former Mizuho Securities' corporate status was dissolved). It still exists today as a wholly owned subsidiary of Mizuho Financial Group.
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- 1988 Commerical from Wako Securities, starring a panda character who may have been the inspiration for these Sanrio designs.
- Ameblo.jp blog post with images of merchandise.
- Wikipedia page about Shinko Securities (Japanese).