#Japan #Tokyo #financial literacy #Financial Academy #Funds Corporation

Financial Academy Joins Forces with Funds Corporation

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering financial education in Japan, Funds Corporation, which operates a direct financial platform, has acquired shares in Financial Academy, a leader in financial education. Set to integrate into its group by October 30, 2025, this collaboration comes at a crucial time as financial literacy is increasingly sought in light of the long life expectancy and a volatile economic landscape.

Background of the Acquisition

Given the current socio-economic environment, where over 50% of Japan's household financial assets, amounting to about 2,200 trillion yen, are held in cash, there is an urgent need to address citizens' anxiety regarding their finances. This integration aligns with the government's efforts, highlighted by Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki during the 'Japan Weeks' event. Suzuki committed to enhancing financial literacy for all generations, pushing for an investment culture rather than saving alone, signaling a shift that Funds hopes to capitalize on.

Funds Corporation has always had a mission to provide comprehensive solutions to financial challenges, framed under the vision of creating a national asset management service. The firm’s innovative product, 'Funds', allows customers to manage their assets with fixed returns that cater to various needs. Additionally, in September 2023, Funds launched a real estate brokerage service called 'SNS Real Estate®', aiming to eliminate the information asymmetry in real estate acquisition and further support customers' asset formation.

In recognizing financial education as a gateway to effective asset management, Funds views its partnership with Financial Academy as vital for reaching a broader audience, including those hesitant to engage in asset management.

Possibilities with Financial Academy

Over its 23-year history, Financial Academy has provided financial education services to over 800,000 individuals, maintaining a high satisfaction rate of 98.7%. Their corporate training programs aimed at enhancing employee financial wellness have established them as a leader in the financial education sector. Incorporating their expertise into Funds' services will undoubtedly enhance customer financial literacy and empower a previously underserved demographic to pursue asset management confidently.

Respecting the neutrality of Financial Academy’s educational integrity, Funds aims to create an integrated platform to alleviate financial insecurities while expanding the scope of asset management services. This collaboration is expected to lead to a more engaged economic environment where individuals feel secure in their financial decisions.

Future Developments

As the integration progresses, customers can expect a range of new services designed to improve financial literacy and engagement with asset management:
1. Market Enlightenment and Educational Services: Many potential learners struggle to find effective financial education resources. Leveraging its large member base and strong digital marketing capabilities, Funds plans to guide interested individuals toward Financial Academy's educational offerings, fostering a deeper understanding of financial literacy and investment.

2. Exclusive Financial Learning Content for Funds Members: High-quality new financial educational materials will be co-developed for Funds' existing members, promoting enhanced financial knowledge and a supportive environment for conscientious asset management.

3. Expansion of Corporate Financial Education Programs: Financial Academy has historically offered financial training to top businesses, educational institutions, and professional sports teams. Funds plans to extend similar program offerings to its corporate partners, thereby enhancing employee welfare and financial stability across the board.

4. Community Engagement for Users: Opportunities will be created for interaction between Financial Academy’s students and Funds’ users, fostering an exchange of information about asset management and community events, which will promote shared values and collaborative financial learning opportunities.

By welcoming Financial Academy into its fold, Funds Corporation is poised to deepen its commitment to resolving financial challenges within society, thereby enhancing its credibility and solidifying its position as a leading asset management service provider in Japan.

About Financial Academy

Founded in June 2002, Financial Academy has a long-standing commitment to educating individuals in financial and economic principles, boasting a headquarters in Chiyoda, Tokyo. Its financial education programs and corporate training initiatives contribute significantly to consumer knowledge and skills development in finance.

About Funds

Established in November 2016, Funds Corporation offers a unique online platform enabling individuals to invest from as little as one yen in loans to publicly listed companies. With a track record of zero distribution delays or defaults across 551 funds, the platform aims to democratize access to investment opportunities for everyday consumers.