Funds Inc., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has made a significant announcement regarding the appointment of Ichiro Aoki as its external auditor, effective August 27, 2025. Aoki, a former executive director of the Japan Securities Dealers Association, brings extensive experience in financial governance, having held high-ranking positions in the Ministry of Finance and the Financial Services Agency (FSA). His role at Funds will focus on strengthening the company's risk management and governance structures as it continues to diversify its business operations.
Profile of Ichiro Aoki
Ichiro Aoki graduated from the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Law in 1979 and joined the then-Ministry of Finance. Throughout his career, he has worked in crucial roles such as planning officer at the Banking Bureau, Securities Bureau, and the Tax Bureau. He has also served as the head of the Financial Companies Division at FSA and has been a visiting researcher at Stanford University. Notably, he was the executive director of the Japan Securities Dealers Association for five years, gaining in-depth insight into financial regulatory frameworks.
Strategic Direction of Funds Inc.
At Funds, the company is focusing on multiple strategic initiatives, including converting product trusts into joint managed monetary trusts and providing corporate bond issuance services for listed companies. As the financial landscape evolves, it is critical for Funds to enhance its governance functions and implement effective risk management strategies. Aoki's appointment is anticipated to contribute significantly to these efforts, ensuring that the company meets its obligations to stakeholders, including shareholders and customers.
Commitment to Stakeholders
As Funds continues to expand its offerings, enhancing governance and risk management is paramount. The company is committed to building trust with its stakeholders by maximizing value from business expansion while implementing strong risk management frameworks. These steps are essential for maintaining the integrity and reliability of Funds' financial services.
About Funds
Funds provides an online platform enabling individuals to lend money indirectly to listed companies, starting from just one yen. The company has raised funds for 545 projects across 111 listed companies, with a track record of zero cases of delayed payments or defaults. This unique offering allows for stable asset formation without significant market risks, thus easing psychological burdens and management efforts for investors.
Key Features of Fixed-Yield Investment at Funds:
- - Stable Returns: Funds offers fixed-yield financial products that do not fluctuate with market trends, allowing for serene asset accumulation.
- - Minimal Investment Threshold: With an industry-first capability to invest from as little as one yen, Funds eliminates barriers for first-time investors.
- - Rigorous Selection Criteria: Only companies passing meticulous evaluations regarding financial health and business plans can raise funds through the platform.
- - Investor Benefits: Many of the funds offer unique privileges to investors, such as discount services and exclusive invitations to tasting events.
Leadership at Funds
The CEO of Funds, Yuichiro Fujita, is a distinguished figure in the financial industry, holding a business degree from Waseda University and establishing various significant companies before founding Funds in November 2016. His experience in crowdfunding and marketing gained him valuable insights that will drive the company's future direction.
Conclusion
Funds Inc. is poised for growth and innovation within the financial technology space, spearheaded by experienced leadership and the strategic guidance of Ichiro Aoki. The company's commitment to robust risk management and comprehensive governance continues to position it favorably in the competitive landscape. As Funds works towards building new connections between individual investors and companies, it remains dedicated to creating a reliable and trustworthy investment environment.