Through extensive research this book provides a timely look into country of origin effects. The study combines an empirical approach with a thorough analysis of cultural and social aspects and analyses consumer attitudes, risk assumptions, and in-group versus out-group rationales which can influence success in today's Japanese retail market. Following an in-depth study of general origin effects the research focuses on the question whether Japanese retail banking customers use country of origin information as a heuristic cue to construct, consciously or subconsciously, specific risk profiles for banks of different national origin. This research confirms some previous hypotheses but also reveals new findings which challenge old beliefs. The strategic implications of these findings are discussed in detail and the book also suggests how firms could use origin cues as a comparative advantage to achieve greater success.