#Japan #Tokyo #Money Forward #Biz Forward #SaaS Finance

Money Forward's Strategic Acquisition of Biz Forward

In a significant development within the fintech landscape, Money Forward, Inc. has announced its decision to completely acquire Biz Forward, a company specializing in online factoring and invoice processing services aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises. This move not only underscores Money Forward's commitment to expanding its financial services but also aligns with its SaaS and fintech strategies.

Amplifying B2B Financial Services

The Money Forward Group has been actively providing financial services through its various subsidiaries, most notably Money Forward Kessai and Biz Forward. These entities offer a range of services from business-to-business payment solutions to invoice outsourcing, all designed to simplify financial management for companies. With the integration of Biz Forward into its group, Money Forward aims to enhance its operational efficiency and accelerate its SaaS and fintech strategy.

History and Services of Biz Forward

Biz Forward launched its operations in 2021 as a joint venture among Money Forward, MUFG Bank, and MUFG Factoring. They quickly established their presence in the market, achieving a remarkable milestone of over 10 billion yen in processed transactions just under two years since the initiation of services in November 2021. Their services have seen increased demand, particularly in contexts such as improving cash flow and digitizing invoice processing—a trend significant in the current market landscape.

Utilizing data from the Money Forward Cloud, Biz Forward has established a streamlined online factoring system, allowing users to access funds conveniently. This integration has led to a growing number of service applications and expanded user engagement, proving the effectiveness of their approach.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, several of the services previously offered by Biz Forward will undergo brand integration by the autumn of 2025. This includes transforming its existing services—SHIKIN+, SEIKYU+ powered by Biz Forward, and Biz Forward's invoice card payment service—into streamlined offerings under the Money Forward banner. The consolidation aims to establish a unified finance service brand while enhancing the overall market reach.

In addition to the integration, Money Forward will absorb Biz Forward's sales and marketing functionalities. Even after Biz Forward is fully integrated, it will continue to receive financial support from MUFG Bank and collaboration from MUFG Factoring, ensuring ongoing enhancements to finance-related services.

Focus on Embedded Finance

As part of their future plans, Money Forward is also set to achieve embedded finance within their SaaS offerings. This move will facilitate seamless financial services that leverage the power of software-as-a-service, creating synergies that enhance the financial ecosystem.

Service Brand Changes

As part of this integration, the following service names will be updated:

• - Online Factoring Service for SMEs:

- Current: SHIKIN+
- Future: Money Forward Early Payment

• - B2B Invoice Outsourcing Service:

- Current: SEIKYU+ powered by Biz Forward
- Future: SEIKYU+ powered by Money Forward Kessai

• - Invoice Card Payment Service:

- Current: Biz Forward Invoice Card Payment powered by Money Forward Kessai
- Future: Money Forward Invoice Card Payment

About Money Forward & Biz Forward

Money Forward, Inc.

• - Location: Tokyo, Minato-ku, Shibaura 3-1-21 msb Tamachi Tower S 21F
• - Representative: Yosuke Tsuji, Group CEO
• - Founded: May 2012
• - Business: Platform service business
• - Website: Money Forward

Biz Forward, Inc.

• - Location: Tokyo, Minato-ku, Shibaura 3-1-21 msb Tamachi Tower S 21F
• - Representative: Naomichi Tomiyama, President
• - Established: August 2, 2021
• - Business: Cloud-based B2B invoice outsourcing and online factoring services
• - Website: Biz Forward

This strategic acquisition not only solidifies Money Forward's position in the financial technology sector but also reinforces its dedication to delivering comprehensive solutions for businesses navigating the complexities of finance.