#Japan #Private Equity #Tokyo #Startup #Kepple Group

Kepple Group Forms the Startup Secondary Investment Consortium

The Kepple Group, led by CEO Takahiro Kamisaki, has announced the establishment of the "Startup Secondary Investment Consortium" with local financial institutions. This initiative aims to co-create a financial ecosystem centered around the liquidity of startup private equity (unlisted stocks).

The consortium intends to leverage Kepple Group’s experience in secondary investments, particularly through its direct secondary-focused fund, the Kepple Liquidity Fund. This foundation provides members with expertise in stimulating secondary investments and facilitates the building of networks among financial institutions involved in startup investments. Ultimately, the consortium seeks to contribute to the emergence of new industries and economic circulation by developing the private equity liquidity ecosystem within regional economies. Kepple Group is committed to accelerating new initiatives aimed at revitalizing local economies through bundled efforts with financial institutions.

Background of the Consortium

Secondary investments involve acquiring startup shares directly from existing shareholders, aiming to enhance capital recycling and market liquidity. Unlike the United States, where a mature secondary market exists, Japan's secondary market for startups is still underdeveloped, even as the investment scale in startup ventures reached approximately 800 billion yen. Kepple Group has introduced the Kepple Liquidity Fund in 2022, focusing on secondary transactions for domestic startups and has successfully facilitated numerous exits for shareholders of unlisted companies, thus improving investor liquidity.

By sharing its cutting-edge knowledge, network, and resources with its partner financial institutions, Kepple Group envisions building a robust startup financial ecosystem, nurturing future industries right from the regional level.

Overview of the Consortium

Through this consortium, Kepple Group invites local financial institutions engaged in startup assistance to create a collaborative environment where members can exchange knowledge and engage in discussions about enhancing the startup financial ecosystem. The objective is to integrate Kepple's expertise in secondary investments with services offered by regional financial institutions, promoting a next-generation startup financial ecosystem that encompasses both secondary investments and venture debt services.

Membership Criteria

Membership is open to individuals from the banking sector or its affiliates who are involved in startup-related services or investment.

Joining Companies

As of September 19, 24 financial institutions and venture capital firms, including notable names, have already joined the consortium. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the consortium's website for more detailed information about membership requirements and activities.

Visit the Startup Secondary Investment Consortium Website

Kickoff Event

A kickoff event exclusively for consortium members is scheduled for September 26. The event will feature discussions on the background of the consortium, the latest trends in the secondary market, and a panel discussion with a guest from SBI Capital. Members are encouraged to join the consortium and participate in this insightful event.

About Kepple Group

Kepple Group is dedicated to its mission of "Creating New Industries" and actively works to develop the startup ecosystem through various initiatives. It manages secondary funds and business succession funds while providing extensive support for fund operations and fostering collaboration between businesses and startups.

About Kepple Liquidity Fund

The Kepple Liquidity Fund is Japan's largest secondary fund dedicated to direct secondary transactions of unlisted stocks, providing exit options for existing shareholders and fostering further growth opportunities for promising companies preparing for IPOs.

Kepple Group’s Services

• - Investment Business: Operates the Kepple Liquidity Fund and other funds aimed at creating a sustainable society.
• - Fund Operation Support: Offers extensive middle-back office services for fund management, investor reporting, and more.
• - Open Innovation Support: Provides comprehensive support for open innovation activities using the proprietary startup database "KEPPLE DB".
• - Startup Support: Assists in hiring high-caliber talent through expert professional career advisors.

For inquiries about each service, please visit the respective service pages or our contact form.