Japan

The We-Time Economy serves as the central strategic framework for future growth, predicated on the belief that artificial intelligence will increase leisure time and heighten the value of shared, trust-based human experiences. By facilitating social interaction through digital platforms and services, the organization aims to capture a significant portion of a global market estimated at US$10–15 trillion. The core thesis posits that shared emotional experiences—ranging from social betting and sports entertainment to family-oriented digital products—create high-retention, high-profitability ecosystems that rely on word-of-mouth growth and community engagement.

Financial targets for the medium term include doubling net sales to 300 billion yen, with a specific focus on scaling the sports and lifestyle segments. To achieve these objectives, the company is implementing a rigorous business portfolio management strategy. This involves classifying business units based on growth potential and profitability relative to a 6.18% weighted average cost of capital. Resources are dynamically allocated to high-growth areas, while underperforming units are subject to restructuring or divestment. Key growth drivers include the global expansion of social betting through PointsBet, the scaling of the FamilyAlbum economic sphere, and the continued monetization of domestic intellectual property like MONSTER STRIKE.

Operational efficiency and shareholder value are prioritized through a commitment to raising the EBITDA margin to 20% and the return on equity (ROE) to 15%. Governance reforms, including the appointment of independent directors to lead compensation committees and the alignment of executive incentives with long-term performance, support these financial goals. The company has also committed to a more robust shareholder return policy, targeting a 40% dividend payout ratio to reflect its transition into a sustained profit growth phase.

The Japanese mobile application market maintains a robust, iOS-dominant trajectory, characterized by a 4% year-over-year increase in total installs during the first half of 2026. This growth is underpinned by a maturing digital ecosystem where mobile integration has become deeply embedded in daily life. Legislative shifts, specifically the Mobile Software Competition Act, are actively reshaping the landscape by incentivizing developers to diversify their distribution and payment strategies, thereby fostering a more competitive and sustainable environment for long-term growth.

Financial and gaming sectors serve as the primary catalysts for this expansion. Stock trading applications have experienced a 90% surge in installs, bolstered by the participation of younger investors and the influence of tax-advantaged programs like NISA. Simultaneously, gaming engagement has intensified, highlighted by a 113% increase in card game sessions. These sectors are not only attracting new users but are also achieving higher retention rates and longer session durations, indicating that users are increasingly comfortable managing complex financial and recreational activities through mobile interfaces.

The entertainment sector continues to evolve through cross-media synergy, particularly between anime, manga, and short-form content. While OTT streaming services recorded a 15% revenue increase in 2025 and maintain high engagement levels with average session lengths exceeding 36 minutes, the digital manga industry is pivoting toward low-friction content models to better capture younger demographics. Based on aggregated data from January 2024 through May 2026, these trends suggest that success in the Japanese market now requires a strategic focus on high-frequency engagement and the ability to adapt to shifting regulatory and consumer preferences.

The study examines how mobile gaming spending patterns differ between Eastern and Western markets, focusing on frequency of purchases, average spend per transaction, and motivational drivers. Findings reveal that Eastern gamers purchase in‑app items more often than Western players; 35 % of East spend frequently versus 36 % in the West, with a higher proportion of occasional and rare spenders in the West. When it comes to transaction size, Eastern users tend to pay more per purchase: 76 % spend over $10 compared with only 42 % of Western users, while a smaller share of East spend under $5 (30 %) versus 8 % in the West. Motivational analysis shows that Western gamers prioritize value and bundles, whereas Eastern players are more attracted to exclusivity, limited‑time items, new offers, and character acquisition. The research covers key markets in Asia—Korea and Japan—and Western regions including the United States, United Kingdom, and broader Europe. Data were collected through a survey of mobile gamers across these regions, with sample sizes sufficient to compare spending behaviors and motivations. The report concludes that monetization strategies should be tailored regionally: value‑based bundles may resonate better in the West, while exclusive content and limited editions could drive higher spend in Eastern markets.

The CESA Game Industry Report 2025 Launch Seminar, held in Tokyo on February 20, 2026, served as a platform to analyze the evolving landscape of the Japanese gaming sector. The event introduced the updated 2025 industry report, which features expanded data sets and enhanced international market research to better support the global expansion of Japanese firms. The seminar aimed to address industry needs for technical knowledge sharing, talent development, and cross-sector networking among corporate and academic stakeholders.

Key findings highlight a significant shift toward the integration of generative AI, with approximately half of domestic game companies now utilizing these tools within their development pipelines. While internal production workflows show high adoption rates, industry experts noted a more cautious approach regarding AI-generated content visible to end-users. Legal discussions emphasized the importance of navigating copyright frameworks, specifically distinguishing between AI learning and generation phases, while balancing innovation with intellectual property risks.

Government representatives from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Agency for Cultural Affairs outlined strategic support for the content industry, targeting 20 trillion yen in overseas sales by 2033. Policy initiatives focus on multi-year funding, tax incentives, and robust talent development programs to ensure long-term competitiveness. Furthermore, legal experts underscored the increasing complexity of global regulatory environments, noting that Japanese companies must proactively manage diverse international requirements regarding data privacy, monetization, and rating systems. By synthesizing perspectives from government, legal, and development sectors, the seminar emphasized that strategic investment and regulatory compliance are essential for the sustainable growth of Japan’s gaming industry in a globalized market.

The evolution of gaming from localized, offline experiences to global, interconnected online environments necessitates a modern approach to parental guidance and family communication. The primary purpose of this guide is to bridge the generational gap between parents and children by providing a framework for establishing mutually agreed-upon rules for safe and responsible gaming. It emphasizes that while the technology and accessibility of games have shifted from television-bound consoles to ubiquitous mobile and cross-platform devices, the fundamental need for trust and clear boundaries remains constant.

The analysis highlights significant shifts in the gaming landscape, noting that modern play is no longer restricted by age, geography, or hardware limitations. Because online environments allow for real-time interaction with diverse global participants, the risks and social dynamics have become more complex. To address this, the guide advocates for a collaborative rule-setting process that prioritizes the child’s developmental stage and specific gaming context. Effective agreements should be flexible, evolving alongside the child’s maturity, and should be rooted in open dialogue rather than rigid, top-down restrictions that may fail to account for the realities of online events or social gaming commitments.

Furthermore, the guide underscores the importance of digital literacy for parents, encouraging them to familiarize themselves with common gaming terminology and technical concepts such as in-app purchases, server stability, and online etiquette. By understanding these elements, parents can provide more informed advice regarding security, privacy, and behavior. Ultimately, the document concludes that gaming rules should function as a shared commitment to safety and mutual respect, ensuring that the gaming experience remains a positive and secure activity for children as they navigate increasingly sophisticated digital worlds.

NEXON Co., Ltd. announced the Board’s selection of candidates for its 24th Annual General Meeting on March 25, 2026. The slate includes six directors, among them two new outside directors and three individuals who will serve concurrently on the Audit and Supervisory Committee. Current executives Junghun Lee, Shiro Uemura, Patrick Söderlund and Daehyun Kang are retained. New appointments comprise Alexander Iosilevich, a seasoned investment‑banking executive with no shareholding in NEXON, and Kaoru Hattori, a Japanese lawyer and partner at Nagashima Ohno & Tsunematsu who also holds trustee and board roles in Toyo Seikan Group Holdings. The Audit and Supervisory Committee will be strengthened by Shiro Kuniya, Naoya Tsurumi—an experienced Sega executive with extensive leadership roles across SEGA subsidiaries—and Hanmin Cho, a private‑equity professional who has led investment divisions at NXC Corporation and holds directorships in NXMH B.V. and Bitstamp Limited.

The announcement details each candidate’s career trajectory, concurrent positions, and share ownership (all new candidates hold zero shares). The selection aligns with Korean Companies Act provisions for outside directors and reflects NEXON’s strategy to blend internal leadership continuity with external expertise in finance, gaming operations, and regulatory oversight. The candidates’ diverse backgrounds—spanning global investment banking, legal practice, gaming industry leadership, and private‑equity management—are intended to enhance governance, strategic direction, and risk oversight for the company’s operations in South Korea and its international markets.

Note: This document has been translated from a part of the Japanese original for reference purposes only. In the event of any discrepancy between this translated document and the Japanese original, the original shall prevail. (Start of electronic provision) June 3, 2025 Tetsuro Koda, President and CEO 2-13-30 Kamiosaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo NOTICE OF THE 15TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS You are hereby notified that the 15th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of Akatsuki Inc.

Akatsuki Inc. reported consolidated financial results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025 (April 1 2024–March 31 2025). Net sales fell by 1.3 % to ¥23,652 million from ¥23,972 million in FY2023, reflecting a decline in the Games segment despite a new title launch. Operating ordinary profit rose by ¥1,239 million (46.3 %) to ¥3,915 million, driven largely by gains in the Comics and IP Solutions businesses; the former benefited from contracted services for an overseas manga platform, while the latter saw growth in its online lottery service “Slash Gift.” Ordinary profit attributable to parent shareholders increased by ¥1,399 million (49.4 %) to ¥4,233 million, and net income attributable to owners of the parent grew by ¥358 million (27.8 %) to ¥1,646 million, aided by gains on share sales from IPOs of investee companies. A conservative write‑down of deferred tax assets reduced the profit attributable to owners, yet overall net income still improved.

An extraordinary loss of ¥593 million was recorded on the valuation of investment securities held by the group, reflecting a conservative assessment of recoverable value amid market uncertainty. On a non‑consolidated basis, the company recorded a ¥5,776 million provision for doubtful accounts and a ¥2,454 million loss on valuation of shares in affiliated companies; these items are largely confined to consolidated subsidiaries and have a minor impact on the consolidated results. The report covers Japan‑based operations for FY2025, with data derived from internal financial statements and market assessments.

Akatsuki Inc. reports a first‑quarter fiscal 2025 performance that reflects a sharp contraction in its core gaming and comics businesses amid a challenging macro‑environment. Net sales fell 44 % YoY to ¥2,313 million, while operating loss widened to ¥1,698 million from a prior‑year loss of ¥775 million. The company’s consolidated equity ratio improved to 78.7 % from 75.3 %, but total assets declined by ¥3,656 million to ¥50,976 million. Net loss attributable to parent shareholders reached ¥1,167 million, a significant increase from the prior‑year loss of ¥271 million. Comprehensive income deteriorated to ¥312 million in losses versus ¥159 million previously.

Segment analysis shows the Games unit suffered a 52.3 % sales decline and an operating loss of ¥1,643 million; the Comics unit posted a modest profit of ¥20 million after an 18.3 % sales drop; the newly standalone IP Solutions unit grew sales by 167 % and generated a ¥122 million profit, largely driven by the inclusion of subsidiary CRAYON, Inc. The Others segment recorded a small profit after an 80.9 % sales increase.

Geographically, the report focuses on Japan with no disclosed overseas revenue breakdown. Methodologically, figures are based on Japanese GAAP quarterly consolidation; no full‑year forecasts are provided due to market uncertainty. The company maintains a policy of timely quarterly disclosure while withholding FY2026 forecasts, citing volatile gaming and investment conditions.

Akatsuki Inc. reported consolidated financial results for fiscal year ended March 2025, showing a modest 5 % increase in sales to ¥23.652 billion compared with the prior year, driven primarily by strong performance of existing games such as Dragon Ball Z Dokkan Battle. Games sales rose 2 % to ¥21.237 billion, while comics and IP Solutions segments returned to profitability with 10 % and 121 % year‑over‑year sales gains, respectively. Operating profit surged 124 % to ¥3.915 billion, largely due to a sharp rise in operating profit from games (68 % increase) and significant gains on the sale of investment securities, which contributed ¥1.154 billion to profit before tax.

Net income increased 48 % to ¥1.646 billion, supported by a 28 % rise in adjusted EBITDA (¥5.661 billion). The company’s balance sheet remained solid, with total assets of ¥54.632 billion and net assets of ¥41.455 billion, while total liabilities decreased to ¥13.177 billion. Cash balances were maintained at ¥33.300 billion, reflecting disciplined working‑capital management.

The results cover the Japanese market and global operations for games, comics, and IP solutions. Methodology includes consolidated financial statements with adjustments for investment and incubation business personnel expenses, and gains on crypto asset sales are classified as non‑operating. Overall, Akatsuki’s selective focus on high‑performing titles and profitable IP solutions has driven a sharp improvement in operating profitability despite the withdrawal of some titles.

Akatsuki Inc. reports consolidated financial results for the first half of fiscal year ending March 31, 2026 (April 1–September 30, 2025). Net sales fell 20.6 % YoY to ¥9,915 million, while operating profit declined 42.4 % to ¥1,724 million; ordinary profit dropped 42.7 % to ¥1,676 million, yet net income attributable to parent rose 31.4 % to ¥1,853 million, driven by a higher comprehensive income of ¥2,269 million versus ¥1,499 million the prior year. Profit per share diluted increased from ¥97.85 to ¥128.56. Total assets grew to ¥59,400 million, with net assets rising to ¥42,995 million and equity ratio improving to 71.9 %. Cash flows from operating activities were modest at ¥369 million, while investing cash outflows of ¥5,433 million reflected significant purchases of investment securities and intangible assets. Financing activities generated net inflows of ¥1,775 million, offset by dividends paid of ¥795 million.

Segment analysis shows the Games and Comics business experienced a 23.2 % sales decline to ¥9,257 million and a 41.2 % profit drop, whereas the Entertainment and Lifestyle segment grew sales by 76.1 % to ¥649 million, achieving a 90.7 % profit increase. The Others segment recorded a sharp sales decline and continued losses.

The report notes significant consolidation changes: six new subsidiaries, including CRAYON Inc., were added; Akatsuki Fukuoka was liquidated. Goodwill increased by ¥4,316 million due to acquisitions of Natee and PAPABUBBLE JAPAN. No full‑year forecasts are provided, reflecting uncertainty in the Games and Comics market and ongoing investment plans.

Akatsuki Inc. reported a sharp decline in consolidated sales and operating results for Q1 of the fiscal year ending March 2026, with total group sales falling 44% YoY to ¥2,313 million. The Games segment suffered the largest hit, dropping 52% to ¥1,782 million and recording an operating loss of ¥1,643 million, largely due to a post‑Q4 portfolio review withdrawal and the absence of high‑profile releases. R&D spending for the Games business fell from the previous year as development on “TRIBE NINE” concluded, but costs for the upcoming title “Kaiju No. 8 The Game” increased personnel and outsourcing expenses.

In contrast, the Comics division saw a modest 18% sales decline to ¥226 million but improved profitability, with operating profit rising from a loss of ¥2 million to ¥20 million. The division’s focus on original works and continued service provision to the overseas platform MANGA MIRAI contributed to this turnaround. The IP Solutions unit experienced explosive growth, with sales up 167% to ¥298 million and operating profit soaring 2,592% to ¥122 million, driven by the successful online lottery “Slash Gift” and the inclusion of CRAYON, Inc. in consolidation.

Other income sources shifted, with gains on investment securities decreasing by ¥107 million to ¥580 million. Net income swung from a loss of ¥271 million in FY3/25 to a larger loss of ¥1,167 million in FY3/26, reflecting the combined impact of segment downturns and higher operating losses. Adjusted EBITDA also deteriorated from ¥153 million to a loss of ¥416 million.

The financial data cover the Japanese market, covering all core segments—Games, Comics, IP Solutions, and ancillary services—from Q1 FY3/24 through Q1 FY3/26. The analysis relies on consolidated financial statements, trend tables, and explanatory notes detailing segment performance, expense composition, and investment activity.