Another notable aspect of Shibusawa's career is that, despite being the founder of hundreds of corporations, he refused to maintain a controlling stake in these corporations, effectively preventing himself from forming a "zaibatsu". What is known as the "Shibusawa zaibatsu" was a holding company to look after his estate for his family. The "Shibusawa Zaibatsu" did not hold any controlling stake in any companies. Despite his lowly origin as a farmer, he was granted the title of Viscount, while all other "zaibatsu" founders were awarded the title of Baron. He was also awarded "Shōnii", Second Honour under the "ritsuryō" rank system, which is usually given to high-ranking nobility and prime ministers.