#Japan #Tokyo #SoftBank #Shareholder Project #Hiroto Kiritani

SoftBank's Innovative Shareholder Farming Project

In a world where engagement and participation remain critical to the success of corporate enterprises, SoftBank Corporation is trailblazing a path to strengthen its shareholder connection through a compelling initiative, the "Kabu x Kabu Farm" project. Launched on January 15, 2026, in Tokyo, the project creates a unique intersection between investing and agriculture, encouraging shareholders to cultivate their own turnips (kabu) alongside their stocks (kabu).

The Genesis of the Project

The motivation behind the "Kabu x Kabu Farm" project stems from an increasing interest in personal investment, whittled to a crescendo by initiatives like NISA. The stock market has witnessed an influx of individual investors, with a staggering 9 million increase in shareholders projected for the fiscal year 2024—bringing the total to approximately 83 million. This reflects a positive trend bolstered by more corporations engaging in stock splits and fresh listings, thus widening the pool of individual investors.

Amid this flourishing atmosphere, SoftBank stands as a beacon of growth, boasting the highest rate of new shareholders among the top ten publicly traded entities from 2023 to 2024. Recognizing the urgency of enhancing communication between companies and its increasing shareholder base, the firm has taken this pivotal step towards a new dimension of interactive Investor Relations (IR).

What is the "Kabu x Kabu Farm"?

The "Kabu x Kabu Farm" aims to create a space where shareholders can join SoftBank in nurturing turnips while educating themselves about the fundamentals of stock investment. Participants will engage in the growth process from seeding in January 2026, regularly commemorating milestones of growth and sharing through social media and dedicated websites.

The Symbolism of Kabu

The convergence of "kabu" (turnip) and "kabu" (stocks) is notable; both share conceptual similarities such as the aspects of nurturing and harvesting. By facilitating this unique agricultural venture, SoftBank seeks to demystify the often intimidating notion of stock investment, transforming it into an enjoyable learning experience fostered in a natural environment.

Hiroto Kiritani Takes the Helm

Investor Hiroto Kiritani has been named the farm manager, leading this creative endeavor starting from January 2026. He brings valuable insights into both stock investment and the cultivation of turnips, aiming to share the fascinating intertwining narratives of turning a profit in both fields. His enthusiasm shines through as he anticipates exchanges with shareholders centered around both investments and turnip cultivation.

Kiritani’s Comment: "I’m thrilled to assume the role of farm manager for the 'Kabu x Kabu Farm.' I find the links between stock investment and agriculture fascinating. Although I’ve drawn parallels before, actually engaging in farming is a new experience for me. I look forward to helping with the growth of our turnips and fostering lively discussions with shareholders about stocks and kabocha!"

Community Engagement and Future Plans

This initiative promotes not just learning but community building. Collaborating with the urban farm ART FARM IKEJIRI, SoftBank is poised to engage participants in a hands-on experience in agronomy while demystifying stock investments. They will soon roll out various strategies in tandem with the growth of their turnips, including:

1. Hosting a Harvest Festival for shareholders to participate in turnip harvesting, enhancing the bond with SoftBank employees and offering a fun learning environment.
2. Planning broader community events allowing non-shareholders to participate, thus welcoming future investors into the fold.

Event Highlights

The upcoming "Kabu x Kabu Farm Learning Harvest Festival" on February 12, 2026, marks a significant occasion, enabling selected shareholders to join Kiritani and SoftBank representatives in an enriching harvest experience. Limited to 20 participants, the event promises an intimate setting for discussion and engagement, all taking place in the nurturing backdrop of the urban farm.

Embracing Stockholder Engagement

SoftBank’s novel initiative reflects a commitment to fostering relationships while transforming shareholder experiences. Stock investors can look forward to unique engagement opportunities, educational workshops, and exclusive events meant to enrich their journeys in understanding corporate ecosystems. As the soft launch of this project continues, SoftBank is dedicated to connecting with and supporting its community of investors through creative and interactive methods, all the while advancing the company’s mission to revolutionize information access and happiness.

With this compelling confluence of investment and agriculture, SoftBank aims not only to reshape how shareholders relate to their company but also how they connect with each other under the gentle guidance of nature.