#Japan #Tokyo #M&A #AI Storm #Maaap

AI Storm Hosts Special Seminar on M&A Fundamentals

On June 16, 2026, AI Storm (formerly Jexceed), a leading AI company headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, held a special seminar titled "Understanding M&A Fundamentals and Market Trends - Common Traits of Successful Companies" at WeWork Shibuya. The event attracted around 60 business leaders and entrepreneurs eager to share insights into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

Speaker Spotlight: Mr. Jin-Hsing Hsieh

The seminar featured Mr. Jin-Hsing Hsieh, a former CFO of GMO Internet Inc. and currently the representative director of Maaap, a company known for its expertise in M&A with over 50 successful deals under his belt. His vast experience provided attendees with valuable perspectives on M&A as a core element of growth strategies. AI Storm announced a business partnership with Maaap on the same day, enhancing the collaboration that the seminar fostered.

The Purpose Behind the Seminar

With growing concerns about succession and business continuity, the difference between valuable companies and those that are overlooked is widening in the realm of M&A. The seminar was created to bridge the knowledge gap for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners, sharing insights gathered from experts actively engaged in the field. The gathering fostered a supportive environment where like-minded individuals came together to explore the universal theme of corporate value.

Content of the Lecture

During the session, topics ranging from the latest M&A market trends to fundamental valuation methods were discussed. Key points from the lecture included:

M&A Market Overview and Trends

Recent shifts in the M&A landscape were addressed, particularly the growing severity of the successor shortage and changes in stock market listing standards. The importance of transfers to larger firms and capital alliances as part of growth strategies was emphasized as a significant trend.

M&A Techniques and Structures

The seminar delved into the primary methods of M&A including stock transfers, business transfers, and mergers. Participants learned about the characteristics and practical differences of each approach, highlighting the importance of selecting the optimal strategy for each deal.

Valuation in M&A

The seminar also clarified the distinctions between enterprise value, business value, and equity value. Mr. Hsieh provided an overview of common valuation methods and shared practical insights regarding evaluation processes.

Attendees were fully engaged, particularly during a Q&A session where Mr. Hsieh articulated the message that perseverance is crucial for business success, resonating deeply with participants lacking specialized knowledge in M&A.

M&A as a Core Growth Strategy

This seminar served as a platform for AI Storm to share its commitment to M&A as a focal point of its growth strategy. On the same day, AI Storm announced a formal partnership with Maaap and the establishment of a dedicated M&A promotion office, signaling a robust commitment to drive M&A initiatives in the AI and IT sectors. By merging AI capabilities with M&A efforts, AI Storm aims to enhance corporate value and accelerate business growth.

The seminar, alongside its organizational commitments, is part of AI Storm's medium-term management plan announced with its name change on April 2025, which outlines a target market capitalization of 50 billion yen by December 2027. The company is determined to achieve this goal together with its partners and supporters.

Company Overview

AI Storm Co., Ltd. (formerly Jexceed)

• - CEO: Toshio Imai
• - Address: 3-17-11 Kandanishikicho, Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 9th Floor Eiyo Building
• - Business Fields: AI solutions, AI education, ERP/HR consulting, LED vision products, truck sales/leasing, ad truck advertising, IT equipment sales, among others.
• - Website: AI Storm

About Maaap Co., Ltd.

• - CEO: Mr. Jin-Hsing Hsieh
• - Address: 6-16-12 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• - Business Areas: M&A advisory and intermediary services, M&A matching platform operations.
• - Website: Maaap

Conclusion

The AI Storm seminar fostered an essential dialogue in the burgeoning field of M&A, paving the way for future collaborations and growth strategies. With a strong focus on business partnerships and expert insights, AI Storm remains committed to helping businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.