Sumitomo Mitsui Banking

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation is a Japanese multinational banking and financial services company that provides a diverse range of financial solutions. Its core business focuses on banking, while also encompassing leasing, securities, credit card services, investment, mortgage securitization, and venture capital, among other credit-related activities. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking has established itself as a significant player in the financial sector, being recognized as the second largest bank in Japan by assets as of 2009. The company aims to meet various financial needs through its extensive network of subsidiaries and affiliates, offering comprehensive services across different business segments.

Anand Mahadevan

Managing Director

Koichi Tanaka

Managing Director and General Manager, Global Aviation and Maritime Finance Department

Past deals in Japan

Japan Tobacco

Post in 2025
Japan Tobacco Inc. is a leading global manufacturer primarily engaged in the tobacco industry, as well as the pharmaceutical and processed food sectors. It ranks as the third-largest tobacco company worldwide, with a diverse portfolio of well-known brands, including Winston, Camel, Mevius, LD, Logic, and Ploom. The company operates in over 70 countries and sells its products in more than 130 markets, holding significant market shares in Japan, Russia, and the UK. The tobacco segment is the primary driver of revenue, accounting for approximately 90% of group sales, with a substantial portion coming from international operations. Japan Tobacco is committed to innovation and sustainability, actively investing in research and development through its Plant Innovation Center to enhance its product offerings and create reduced-risk alternatives. The company has grown through strategic acquisitions, including the notable purchase of Gallaher in 2007, further solidifying its position in the global market.

Preferred Networks

Debt Financing in 2024
Preferred Networks, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in developing software and hardware solutions leveraging advanced machine learning technologies. Its core focus areas include transportation systems, manufacturing, and bio-healthcare, while also exploring applications in personal robotics, materials discovery, and sports analytics. The company provides a range of services, including data analytics, edge computing, and computer vision, to various sectors such as retail, automotive, healthcare, and public safety. By integrating data from both physical and digital realms, Preferred Networks aims to create practical applications that enhance automation and efficiency across industries. Additionally, the company has a subsidiary located in Burlingame, California, further expanding its reach and capabilities.

KYC Consulting

Debt Financing in 2024
KYC Consulting Corporation, established in 2018 and based in Chiyoda Ku, Japan, specializes in risk management and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance services. The company offers a comprehensive risk database that enables businesses to collect and assess risk information both domestically and internationally. In addition to this database, KYC Consulting provides consulting services focused on KYC and anti-money laundering, credit checks for initial public offerings, and strategies for responding to anti-social forces. Their offerings also include the development and maintenance of KYC manuals, employee training on compliance, and hands-on support for KYC operations, ensuring that clients meet regulatory requirements effectively.

Atome

Debt Financing in 2024
Atome is an omnichannel brand headquartered in Singapore that offers a buy now, pay later service, allowing customers to split their payments into three equal, zero-interest installments. Founded in 2019, Atome partners with a variety of online and offline retailers in sectors such as fashion, beauty, lifestyle, fitness, and homeware, providing consumers with flexibility and convenience in their shopping experiences. The company's payment application facilitates online shopping by automatically deducting installment payments from linked cards over a specified timeframe. Atome operates in multiple countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, mainland China, and Japan, driving both digital commerce and financial services.

Chitose

Debt Financing in 2024
Chitose Group is a biotechnology company based primarily in Southeast Asia and Japan, dedicated to fostering an environment conducive to sustained human prosperity. The organization engages in technological development across various sectors, including agriculture, medicine, food, energy, and chemistry. Chitose Group emphasizes economic rationality in its operations, aiming to create new value through strategic research and development. By understanding the core aspects and limitations of biotechnology, the company seeks to navigate the path toward successful commercialization, thereby supporting medical professionals and contributing to a sustainable future for humanity.

Sharing Energy

Debt Financing in 2024
Sharing Energy, established in January 2018 and headquartered in Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, specializes in energy management services and photovoltaic power generation systems. The company offers Share Denki, a third-party-owned service that focuses on self-consumption power supply. Its offerings include energy storage and utilization solutions, energy supply services, and comprehensive energy management services. By facilitating the creation of distributed power sources, Sharing Energy aims to transform the energy system and promote sustainability, empowering users to contribute to a more sustainable society.

ingage()

Debt Financing in 2024
INGAGE Inc., founded in January 2014 and based in Japan, develops a communication platform called "Re:lation." This cloud-based software is designed to help companies manage and track all communications with customers, clients, and partners. By consolidating correspondence from various channels, including email, phone, and social media, Re:lation allows users to maintain a shared inbox that can be assigned to designated team members. This centralization of communication not only streamlines customer support but also enhances collaboration within organizations, enabling them to efficiently manage internal and external interactions. With a founder who has a background in video game development and over a decade of experience in the United States, INGAGE focuses on providing effective IT solutions for businesses.

Luup

Debt Financing in 2023
Luup, Inc. is a provider of electric micro-mobility sharing services based in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 2018, the company specializes in renting electric kickboards and bicycles through its user-friendly application. Luup operates primarily in major cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama, with plans for further expansion across Japan. The service utilizes a high-density port network, allowing users to conveniently rent and return vehicles at various locations. By offering a range of electric two-wheelers and small vehicles, Luup aims to enhance urban mobility and provide customers with a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Alt

Debt Financing in 2023
Alt, Inc. is a technology company based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in the development of mobile applications centered around personalized artificial intelligence. The company creates a digital replica of users that integrates with their frequently used social networking services and applications. This innovative system learns and adapts to the user's preferences and behaviors, effectively mirroring their personality in a virtual format. Alt's focus on personal AI aims to enhance user experiences and create lasting value in everyday life through its software-as-a-service and infrastructure solutions.

Denso

Post in 2022
Denso is a global manufacturer and supplier of advanced automotive technology, systems, and components, headquartered in Kariya, Japan. Founded in 1949 as an independent entity from Toyota Motor, Denso focuses on providing solutions that enhance vehicle performance and safety while minimizing environmental impact. The company’s primary business areas include powertrain control systems, thermal systems, electrification systems, mobility electronics, and sensors/semiconductor systems. Denso serves major automakers worldwide, emphasizing innovative products and technologies that contribute to a safer and more sustainable automotive environment.

Kyoto Fusioneering

Debt Financing in 2022
Kyoto Fusioneering is a privately funded technology start-up established in 2019 and based in Kyoto, Japan. The company specializes in developing advanced technologies for commercial fusion reactors, including gyrotron systems, tritium fuel cycle technologies, and breeding blankets for tritium production and power generation. By providing innovative solutions such as liquid metal and molten salt systems, as well as tritium treatment and high-frequency microwave gyrotrons, Kyoto Fusioneering aims to support both public and private fusion developers globally. The company's efforts contribute to the acceleration of fusion energy as a sustainable and carbon-free power source for the future.

DeCurret

Series A in 2021
DeCurret Inc. is a Tokyo-based company established in 2018 that specializes in digital currency transactions, settlement, and payment services for cryptocurrency exchanges. The company focuses on offering optimal rates for digital currency and is capable of processing a substantial volume of transactions quickly and reliably. Through its services, DeCurret aims to facilitate seamless cryptocurrency exchanges and enhance the overall efficiency of digital currency operations.

MFS

Venture Round in 2021
MFS, Inc. is a consumer lending company based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in online mortgage services. Founded in 2009, MFS simplifies the mortgage process by allowing consumers to secure home loans without the need to search for, apply for, or negotiate with traditional financial institutions. The company's innovative approach has garnered significant media attention, with features in prominent outlets such as NHK, Nihon Keizai Shimbun, and Yomiuri Shimbun.

nanameue

Venture Round in 2021
Nanameue, Inc., founded in 2013 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in the development and service planning for smartphone applications and web graphic design, with a focus on iOS applications. The company aims to foster connections among individuals by providing a platform for social interaction, enabling users to communicate about shared interests and experiences. One of its notable offerings allows users to create slideshow-style movies using their selected digital photos and information, facilitating the creation of engaging videos that can be shared with friends and family. Through its innovative services, Nanameue aspires to cultivate joyful experiences and a sense of belonging in the digital space.

Paidy

Venture Round in 2020
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

Appier

Venture Round in 2020
Appier Inc. is a technology company headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, founded in 2012. It specializes in providing artificial intelligence platforms designed to enhance customer engagement and facilitate data-driven decision-making for enterprises. Appier offers a suite of products, including Aideal, which helps businesses influence purchase decisions and shorten sales cycles; AIQUA, a proactive platform for customer engagement based on user behavior; AIXON, a data science platform that consolidates customer data for predictive analytics; and CrossX, an AI-powered advertising solution for optimizing campaign performance. The company serves around 1,000 global brands and agencies and has a presence in 14 markets across Asia, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and Sydney. Appier’s solutions allow businesses to leverage AI for improved targeting and customer retention, making it easier for them to operate in a cross-screen environment without needing extensive in-house AI expertise.

Omise

Series C in 2020
Omise Co., Ltd. operates an online payment platform designed for both web and mobile applications, enabling users to easily transfer funds, process refunds, and store customer payment information for future transactions. Founded in 2013 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, Omise aims to simplify the online payment experience, particularly in markets like Thailand, Japan, and Singapore, where traditional payment processing can be cumbersome. The platform provides a range of processing solutions that facilitate seamless payment acceptance for businesses, including credit and debit card transactions and bill payments through various banking methods. Omise also offers APIs for developers to integrate payment functionality into their applications. The company prioritizes security and has achieved compliance with PCI-DSS standards, ensuring that transactions meet the requirements of major payment networks. By addressing the challenges of online payment processing, Omise seeks to create a reliable and user-friendly solution for both merchants and consumers.

Creww

Venture Round in 2020
Creww Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that operates a platform dedicated to the business development of startups. Established in 2012, it provides a range of services designed to support new businesses and entrepreneurs. Its offerings include Creww Accele, a collaboration platform that promotes startup initiatives, and Docks, which provides co-working spaces for businesses. Additionally, Creww offers Steams, a cloud service that facilitates co-creation business programs, and a corporate membership service that supports new business creation. The company focuses on fostering a startup community by leveraging digital technology to assist entrepreneurs in tackling social and corporate challenges, while also promoting corporate open innovation and digital transformation. Creww aims to connect startups with appropriate investors and strategic partners, thereby enhancing their growth potential.

CANDY HOUSE

Debt Financing in 2020
CANDY HOUSE, Inc. is a technology company that designs and manufactures the Sesame smart lock system, enabling users to secure and access their doors through smartphone applications. Founded in 2014 and based in Palo Alto, California, with additional offices in Tokyo and Taipei, the company serves a diverse customer base across multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and Japan. The Sesame smart lock is easy to install and has expanded its applications beyond home use to include bike locks and integrated locks for doors and suitcases. CANDY HOUSE also offers a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model that supports business applications in retail, hospitality, and shared spaces, as well as an infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) component that provides developers with tools to create their own applications. The company's growth has resulted in millions of Sesame users, reflecting a strong demand for innovative locking solutions that integrate artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (AIoT).

Baseconnect

Series A in 2020
Baseconnect Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Kyoto, Japan, specializes in developing and operating BaseconnectList, a corporate sales support database. The company provides Musubu, a cloud-based platform that leverages artificial intelligence to enhance corporate sales by targeting prospective customers and creating tailored company lists. This innovative approach aims to improve the efficiency of sales operations by connecting global data and facilitating better access to information for businesses.

AWL

Series A in 2020
AWL, Inc. specializes in developing artificial intelligence-based camera solutions tailored for the retail sector. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Chiyoda, Japan, the company offers products such as AWL BOX, which enhances existing security cameras with AI capabilities, and AWL Lite, an application that allows smartphone monitoring of retail operations. AWL focuses on video analytics using AI and deep learning to provide actionable insights that help improve store operations and employee-customer interactions. The company is currently engaged in business development through real-world store trials, aiming to expand its services to retail industries both in Japan and internationally. With additional offices in Tokyo, Hokkaido, and Hanoi, AWL is committed to enhancing operational efficiency and value in brick-and-mortar retail environments.

Repro

Debt Financing in 2019
Repro Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in mobile analytics solutions aimed at helping businesses convert and retain mobile users. Founded in 2014, Repro provides a platform that delivers insights into user behavior through detailed analytics and play-by-play videos. The company offers comprehensive application growth support, assisting clients in strategy planning, development, and in-app messaging to enhance conversion rates. By utilizing real-time data streaming and analytics, Repro enables businesses to optimize user communications across various channels, including push notifications, applications, websites, and email. This approach helps clients foster lasting customer relationships and create personalized, engaging experiences for their users.

Paidy

Debt Financing in 2019
Paidy Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in a cardless real-time payment network designed to facilitate online transactions without the need for credit cards or pre-registration. Founded in 2008, Paidy enables consumers to make purchases online and pay for them later through a consolidated monthly bill. The platform is optimized for mobile use and instant-checkout, catering to the preferences of Japanese consumers who typically avoid credit card usage for online payments. By utilizing proprietary technology to assess creditworthiness and underwrite transactions, Paidy guarantees payment to merchants, thereby enhancing their conversion rates, average order values, and repeat purchases. Through its innovative payment solutions, Paidy supports eCommerce operators in boosting sales and overall profitability.

KIOXIA

Funding Round in 2019
Toshiba Memory Corporation develops and manufactures non-volatile memory solutions, which include wireless secure digital (SD) cards, micro SD cards, and USB sticks. The company was founded in 2017 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

DIV

Venture Round in 2019
DIV Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Tokyo, Japan, specializes in offering programming courses and training programs. The company operates TECH::CAMP, a programming school that provides short-term intensive training designed to transform students into skilled engineers. DIV's programming schools are available in both online and classroom formats, catering to individuals looking to transition from inexperienced workers to professional engineers. This approach not only equips students with essential programming skills but also enhances their employability in the technology sector, particularly as web designers.

Mujin

Venture Round in 2019
Mujin Inc. specializes in providing solutions for industrial robotics and factory automation, with a focus on enhancing productivity in manufacturing and logistics. Founded in 2011 and based in Tokyo, the company offers a range of products including the Mujin Controller Sim for programming industrial robots, Mujin Scanner for 3D modeling, Pick Worker for bin-picking with real-time motion planning, and Laser Worker for laser cutting applications. Mujin's intelligent robot controllers address common limitations faced by traditional robots, enabling better adaptability in dynamic environments. The company also provides comprehensive services such as robot system design, controller design, and motion planning, which are crucial for automating both heavy and repetitive tasks. With its advanced motion planning technology, Mujin aims to simplify factory automation and facilitate the integration of robots into complex real-time systems, ultimately streamlining operations that were previously reliant on human labor.

Quan

Venture Round in 2019
Quan Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in developing characters and game content for smartphone applications and web platforms. Established in 2011, the company offers a diverse portfolio of over 500 characters, including popular figures such as Betakkuma, Sugar Cubs, and Mr. Egg, which are used in chat applications and mobile services primarily in Japan and Southeast Asia. In addition to character development, Quan Inc. creates content for social and casual games, as well as keyboard and sticker applications. The company also provides global content distribution services and engages in public relations and advertising, focusing on market research, translation, and game management.

Triple W

Venture Round in 2019
Triple W is a company that has developed DFree, an innovative wearable device aimed at assisting elderly and disabled individuals suffering from incontinence. The device utilizes a non-invasive ultrasonic sensor to monitor bladder movements and predict when a user will need to use the bathroom. By analyzing the collected data, DFree sends notifications to the user's smartphone, allowing caregivers to better manage toilet timings. This technology has gained traction, with DFree being marketed across Asia and Europe and utilized in over 500 senior care facilities. Triple W operates offices in Japan, France, and the United States.

MONEY DESIGN

Venture Round in 2018
MONEY DESIGN Co., Ltd. is a fintech company based in Tokyo, Japan, that specializes in asset management and investment advisory services. Founded in 2013, the company provides automated investment management solutions aimed at simplifying the investment process for clients. By leveraging technology, MONEY DESIGN offers tailored investment strategies and advice to help individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals.

Plaid

Debt Financing in 2018
Plaid, Inc. operates KARTE, a cloud-based customer experience platform in Japan that focuses on analyzing customer behavior on websites and apps to facilitate personalized communication. The company also manages EC-specialized media, Shopping Tribe, and CX-specialized media, XD. Plaid serves various industries, including finance, insurance, human resources, retail, apparel, real estate, IT, media, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, Plaid aims to simplify the process of customer data analysis and improve site performance, helping businesses optimize their customer engagement strategies.

Plaid

Venture Round in 2018
Plaid, Inc. operates KARTE, a cloud-based customer experience platform in Japan that focuses on analyzing customer behavior on websites and apps to facilitate personalized communication. The company also manages EC-specialized media, Shopping Tribe, and CX-specialized media, XD. Plaid serves various industries, including finance, insurance, human resources, retail, apparel, real estate, IT, media, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Tokyo, Plaid aims to simplify the process of customer data analysis and improve site performance, helping businesses optimize their customer engagement strategies.

Sansan

Series D in 2017
Since its founding in 2007, Sansan has focused on delivering its cloud based contact management service to customers in Japan and beyond. Sansan is setting the standard in Japan for cloud-based contact management, with annually doubling numbers of users from over 7,000 premium corporate users including the Japanese Government (METI). Sansan Inc. is based in Tokyo, Japan and has its subsidiary Sansan global Pte. Ltd. in Singapore since October 2015. The company began offering its business card app Eight in 2012. It has over 1.5 million registered users as a new business network that incorporates a social media framework to transform business cards into business connections. Founded: June 11, 2007 URL: https://www.corp-sansan.com/ Address: Aoyama Oval Building, 13F, 5-52-2, Jingu-mae Shibuya-ku Tokyo 150-0001 Business scope: Planning, development, and sales of cloud-based business card management services Sansan for business users: https://www.sansan.com Eight for individual users: https://8card.net

Magellan Systems Japan

Venture Round in 2017
Magellan Systems Japan, Inc. specializes in the research, development, and licensing of high-precision satellite positioning systems. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Amagasaki, Japan, the company offers a range of products including software-based global positioning systems (GPS), multi-frequency global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), real-time kinematic systems, and inertial measurement systems. Additionally, it provides GPS timing solutions and autonomous ephemeris prediction services. The company is involved in the import and sale of GNSS-related products, as well as the development of advanced processing technologies. With a focus on delivering accurate location information and time calculations, Magellan Systems Japan plays a significant role in the satellite navigation sector.

FiNC

Series C in 2017
FiNC Technologies Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2012 that specializes in health and wellness solutions through an AI-enabled platform. This platform is designed to help consumers manage their wellness by offering preventive medicine and smartphone-based healthcare services. By combining data analysis, rich content, and social elements, FiNC's platform enables users to log and understand their health and lifestyle choices, including diet, sleep, and exercise habits. The company's focus is on providing personalized healthcare support, empowering individuals to improve their overall well-being.

SMBC Aviation Capital

Acquisition in 2012
SMBC Aviation Capital is a prominent aircraft leasing company that specializes in leasing commercial jet aircraft to airlines worldwide. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, the company operates a comprehensive leasing platform that includes aircraft management, financing, and trading services. It provides lease management and remarketing services to effectively acquire, manage, and sell aircraft. In addition to its Dublin base, SMBC Aviation Capital has offices in various global locations, including Japan, the United States, the Netherlands, China, France, and Singapore. The company is a subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company, Limited.
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