– Tokyo-based investment firm Japan Activation Capital (JAC) closed its second fund at 77 billion yen ($511.93 million).
– Total funds raised from domestic institutional investors now amount to about 210 billion yen.
– JAC was established in 2023 by former Carlyle Group executive Hiroyuki Otsuka.
– Focuses on mid- to large-cap listed Japanese firms, aiming for “private equity style value creation.”
– The second fund’s close aligns with Japan’s efforts to boost domestic stock market investment.
– JAC’s first fund closed in April 2024, raising 130 billion yen from mega-banks and insurance companies.
– The second fund attracted a broader investor base, including regional banks, government-related funds, and a university endowment.
– Otsuka emphasized JAC’s commitment to supporting firms’ growth and strengthening fundamentals through engagement.
– JAC only invests with company executives’ approval, maintaining constructive relationships.
– First investment was in Lion Corp, a consumer goods
manufacturer, in October 2024 for an undisclosed sum.
– Lion’s updated medium-term management plan led to an 18% stock price jump the following day; shares are up 13% since JAC’s investment.
– JAC is in discussions with around 20 companies, targeting investments in the tens of billions of yen range.
