Rakuten wesentlich besser als Rocket
Look Out Amazon, Here Comes...Rakuten?
Japanese e-commerce firm Rakuten announced on Tuesday it is acquiring Ebates for $1 billion.
The acquisition, which Rakuten hinted at last week, is part of the Japanese company’s push to grow its base beyond its domestic market and hopefully, become a global player. Having made some $1.2 billion acquisitions to date along these lines, this is Rakuten’s most ambitious move to date.
However, investors are dubious that the company can absorb yet another foreign acquisition, much less one the size of Ebates, despite Rakuten’s strong cash position.
Then there is the ever-present Amazon, which dominates the e-commerce market in the U.S. Few believe it will falter in the face of Chinese giant Alibaba, much less a Rakuten-Ebates combo.
Rakuten Goes Forth
Not surprisingly, Rakuten says it is undaunted. For starters, it has assembled a very interesting mix of acquisitions. There is messaging app Viber, which it purchased for $900 million in February, the Canadian ebook offering Kobo, Spanish video service Wuaki.tv, Viki, a digital content platform and Buy.com.
Now it has picked up Ebates.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/erikamorphy/2014/09/...ere-comes-rakuten/
August 22, 2025
The U.S. government can work to prevent Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturers from dominating the global market by promoting Open Radio Access Networking (Open RAN) standards worldwide. Radio access networks are a component of mobile infrastructure that connects user devices to the broader network. Open RAN is a technological standard for building that infrastructure using open, compatible interfaces, allowing hardware and software from different vendors to work together. While China's mercantilist policies boost its manufacturers, such as Huawei and ZTE, enabling them to take ever-greater global market share, a wider adoption of Open RAN standards would level the playing field and allow the United States to restore its telecommunications equipment industry as a global competitor.
https://itif.org/publications/2025/08/22/...n-ran-adoption-worldwide/
FY2023 = 34.4 billion JPY
FY2024 = 50.7 billion JPY (Increase of 16.3 billion JPY= 47.4%)
FY2025 (Forecast) = 64.3 billion JPY (Increase of 13.5 billion JPY = 26.7%)
https://www.rakuten-bank.co.jp/corp/english/...IR_Presentation_EN.pdf
August 06, 2025
What happens when AI stops being an add-on and starts becoming the backbone of your network?
In this forward-looking panel, telecom leaders from Deutsche Telekom, Rakuten Symphony, and Aira Technologies unpack the foundational shifts needed to support AI-native 6G. From data-driven architecture to operational intelligence, discover how embedded AI will redefine how future networks are built, scaled, and monetized.
Featuring:
Mohammad Sharifan, Lead Architect – Group Technology/ Data & AI, Deutsche Telekom
Geoff Hollingworth, CMO, Rakuten Symphony
Rahul Atri, Chief Product Officer, Aira Technologies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXyCeaRU4gg
Aug. 12, 2025 12:00
Summary
I maintain my buy rating on Rakuten, driven by strong Q2 EBITDA and the presence of multiple catalysts.
The Mobile unit outperformed, achieving positive EBITDA and subscriber growth, with ARPU boosted by high-volume data users.
Valuation discounts should narrow as Rakuten demonstrates intra-group synergies and accelerates deleveraging.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/...itda-beat-and-re-rating-potential
23 August 2025
Kobo stands as the world’s second-largest digital reading platform, a testament to its foresight and unwavering commitment. With over 33,000 publishers and a catalog exceeding 8 million titles, Kobo delivers eBooks to an astonishing 195 countries. This global footprint underscores a shared focus on empowering retailers and fostering partnerships rather than competing with them.
Crucially, Kobo views AI as a powerful tool to augment, not replace, human creativity and expertise. For authors, AI can serve as an invaluable assistant for research and organization, freeing them to focus on the unique stories only they can tell. For booksellers, AI helps refine recommendations through better categorization and curated collections tailored to individual readers.
As one example, Kobo is looking at the potential of AI enhanced search capabilities for book recommendations tailored to specific interests or situations. This reflects how AI can become a practical tool to personalize, simplify and even enhance the reading experience.
Kobo’s innovative spirit extends to its business models. The introduction of Kobo Plus, an all-you-can-read subscription service now available in over 20 countries, exemplifies their willingness to disrupt themselves to meet evolving customer needs. This bold move has shown fascinating results.
Subscribers read twice as much and finish books six times more often, encouraging them to explore new authors and genres. This initiative not only provides readers with immense value but also offers publishers and authors new avenues for discoverability and growth, giving “second lives to hundreds of thousands of books.”
https://guildfordjobcentre.co.uk/...or-smarter-more-personal-reading/
Handelsplatz § Tag-Stk.
Tradegate 28.774 §
Frankfurt 3.696 §
Stuttgart 1.000 §
Gettex § 5.784
https://www.ariva.de/aktien/...n-group-inc-aktie/kurse/handelsplaetze
Mon, August 25, 2025
Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is trying to disrupt the terminal-based Starlink business.
It has plans to partner with major telecommunications providers.
The growth potential is massive, but AST's stock trades at a premium valuation.
SpaceX is one of the best-known companies in the world. It is privately valued at an estimated $400 billion, with a lot of that market value coming from its fast growing satellite internet service called Starlink that has a reported 6 million customers and is growing rapidly. But what if there was a company about to disrupt Starlink's entire business model?
Satellite internet services like Starlink are great, but they come with one big drawback: clunky terminals. The standard dish is not ginormous, but is not something you could take out on a hike. AST SpaceMobile plans to get rid of the terminals altogether with its constellation of ultra-large satellites that can beam high speed internet directly to smartphones.
This would be a stepchange in customer value for satellite internet, and could lead to two outcomes. One is more people willing to pay for satellite internet, and two is existing customers of Starlink and equivalent services switching to AST SpaceMobile with its direct-to-device technology.
As it launches more of its satellites, AST SpaceMobile expects to turn on its service in the United States and then grow to Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan throughout 2026. It will take steady launches of these large satellites, but eventually AST SpaceMobile has a path to true global coverage with direct-to-device internet.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/...onomy-stock-over-100-100000224.html
But when will the service be ready? Sooner than you think. As of the latest quarterly update, AST SpaceMobile said it will enable satellite internet connectivity in the United States at some point in 2025, leading to between $50 million and $75 million in revenue in the back half of the year. The company generates close to zero revenue today. This revenue will include commercial contracts as well as deals with the United States government.
There are six satellites in orbit today, with plans to get 45 to 60 in orbit through 2026 to enable service in other markets such as Japan, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Eventually, the service will be available in all markets globally.
Huge investments, but a large opportunity
Running some quick estimates, you can see how large the potential market opportunity is for AST SpaceMobile as the only provider of direct internet connectivity for telecommunications providers today.
For example, if it can drive 100 million customers to sign up for AST SpaceMobile's service at $10 a month in revenue sharing for the company, that is $12 billion in annual revenue. It will not show up immediately, but you can see why management is confident it can quickly scale up revenue to a $100 million annual run rate in the United States from a standing start this year. Remember, too, it has an existing partnership with the U.S. government that will bolster sales.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/...st-spacemobile-stock-130000965.html
Gesamtvolumen §43.123 Stück
Gesamtumsatz §225.645 €
https://www.ariva.de/aktien/...n-group-inc-aktie/kurse/handelsplaetze
Quality Panels and Local Expertise in Asia, US & Beyond
When was the last time you received authentic local feedback for your surveys to ensure the highest quality online data? Rakuten Insight does this every single time. We provide a rich blend of authentic local insight and premium proprietary panels to clients who are looking for quick, affordable, and, most of all, reliable online samples in Asia & US.
https://insight.rakuten.com/why-rakuten-insight/
August 26, 2025
Rated as the best digital bank for individual customers in Japan
Rakuten Bank Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, President & CEO: Tomotaka Higashibayashi, hereinafter referred to as "Rakuten Bank") is pleased to announce the "Country Winner" awarded to the country's best digital bank at the "Global Finance World's Best Consumer Digital Bank Awards" sponsored by Global Finance magazine, a U.S. financial magazine. It has been awarded for 11 consecutive years.
The "Global Finance World's Best Consumer Digital Bank Awards" are a survey of Internet banking services in the world by the editors of Global Finance magazine and Infosys, a global leader in consulting technology outsourcing, will jointly evaluate business models and innovations to select outstanding banks. This year was the 26th time it was held.
Country Winner Category: Best Consumer Digital Bank and Best Digital-Only Bank
Rakuten Bank was awarded the "Country Winner" award for the following points:
Rakuten Bank clearly differentiates itself from its competitors through its digital-first and app-centric approach
Customers can enjoy a seamless experience through strong collaboration with the Rakuten Group's broader ecosystem
Customers can use multiple services with a single Rakuten Group ID. to benefit from a full loyalty program
Rakuten Bank will continue to provide attractive products and services to customers.
https://www.rakuten-bank.co.jp/press/2025/250826.html
In this closing session of DSP Leaders World Forum 2025, experts from Juniper Networks, Rakuten Symphony, the NGMN Alliance and the University of Cambridge reflect on what the telecom industry must do today to prepare for 6G. The panel challenges the pace and structure of traditional ‘G-cycles’, calling for greater collaboration with vertical industries, a stronger focus on coverage and simplicity, and a more agile innovation ecosystem. Topics include network sensing, AI at the edge, energy and infrastructure readiness, and how telcos can avoid repeating the mistakes of 5G while embracing real-world use cases and faster feedback loops.
Featuring:
Anita Döhler, CEO, NGMN Alliance
Geoff Hollingworth, CMO, Rakuten Symphony
Prof. Harald Haas, University of Cambridge
Neil McRae, Chief Network Strategist, Juniper Networks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFYkkGfa0ug&t=13s
Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) Market Size:
Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) Market size is estimated to reach over USD 46.73 Billion by 2032 from a value of USD 3.25 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow by USD 4.47 Billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 34.1% from 2025 to 2032.
Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) Market Scope & Overview:
Open radio access network (open RAN) refers to a mobile network architecture that promotes interoperability and flexibility in radio access networks by using open interfaces and disaggregating hardware and software components from different vendors. It aims to shift from the traditional, closed, and proprietary RAN models towards a more open and programmable ecosystem. Moreover, open radio access network (open RAN) offers several benefits, including reduced vendor lock-in, interoperability, increased flexibility and scalability, cost savings, enhanced security, and others.
https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/...twork-open-ran-market
Comprehensive digital protection, including Norton Mobile Security, available for 990 yen (tax included) per month
Tokyo, August 26, 2025 – Rakuten Mobile, Inc. today announced the launch of "SAIKYO Protection," an advanced optional service designed to deliver robust security and peace of mind for smartphone users. Available from today for a monthly fee of 990 yen (tax included), SAIKYO Protection integrates comprehensive digital protection, featuring Norton Mobile Security, alongside a suite of services addressing cybersecurity concerns from data privacy to malware defense and incident response. First-time subscribers to the service will benefit from a complimentary three-month trial period.
https://corp.mobile.rakuten.co.jp/english/news/...20250826_01_lang_en
Rakuten's Q2 2025 results are more than a quarterly win—they represent a strategic inflection point. By monetizing its mobile ecosystem, embedding AI into core services, and leveraging cross-segment synergies, the company is building a scalable, self-reinforcing platform. For investors seeking exposure to Asia's AI-driven tech-financial ecosystem, Rakuten offers a compelling combination of near-term profitability and long-term innovation.
https://www.ainvest.com/news/...h-ai-driven-ecosystem-dominance-2508/
Aug 26, 2025
While it's hard to imagine how EchoStar's Boost Mobile brand will continue to compete in the wireless market without spectrum, it doesn't appear to be going anywhere. The operators have struck a hybrid MNO deal that will allow Boost to continue operating using a combination of its own cloud-native 5G core and AT&T's cell sites.
“This strategic move allows us to continue serving Boost Mobile customers while taking important steps to both resolve the FCC’s spectrum utilization concerns and place EchoStar on more stable financial ground,” said EchoStar COO John Swieringa in a post on LinkedIn. “With this news, we will continue to compete in the U.S. wireless market as a hybrid MNO, offering our customers connectivity through Boost Mobile’s cloud-native 5G core and AT&T’s cell sites.”
https://www.fierce-network.com/wireless/...tts-spectrum-deal-echostar
The Internet Services segment, including Rakuten Ichiba and Rakuten Travel, reported ¥324.5 billion in revenue (up 6.8% YoY) and ¥19.1 billion in Non-GAAP operating income (excluding minority investments). Meanwhile, FinTech revenue surged 14.8% to ¥232.7 billion, driven by Rakuten Card's ¥6.5 trillion in shopping gross transaction value (GTV) and Rakuten Payment's 57.2% YoY income growth. These results highlight how Rakuten's ecosystem model—where mobile users fuel e-commerce and fintech adoption—creates compounding value.
https://www.ainvest.com/news/...h-ai-driven-ecosystem-dominance-2508/
Aug 25, 2025
One of the key takeaways from AST SpaceMobile’s (AST) second-quarter earnings report is that the company looks poised to launch its cellular-based broadband networks rather quickly and inexpensively. These attributes, along with the strength of the firm’s technology, should enable it to become very successful over the longer term.
Also noteworthy are the company’s huge overall potential and the continuing, remarkable progress of its government business which can become quite gigantic.
However, AST does face significant risk. Therefore, only risk-tolerant investors who are looking for a high-tech growth play should consider buying its shares at this point.
A Relatively Fast, Cheap Path to Service Launches
AST reported that it intends to launch “45 to 60 satellites into orbit by 2026.” CEO Abel Avellan stated on its Q2 earnings held on August 11.
Using these satellites, AST intends to provide intermittent service in the U.S. by the end of this year, while it is targeting such capabilities in the UK, Canada and Japan in Q1 of 2026. Also importantly, the CEO stated that AST, which already has six satellites in orbit, only requires “approximately 90 satellites for continuous global coverage” and plans to send a new satellite into orbit every one or two months between now and the end of 2026.
Given this launch cadence and the number of satellites that AST needs, it should be able to offer service in many countries by the end of 2027.
Meanwhile, Avellan reported that “other systems (require) tens of thousands of satellites” in order to provide global coverage. In addition to enabling AST to kick off its service in many countries in relatively short order, the superior efficiency of its technology will allow it to begin providing a great deal of coverage relatively cheaply. And since other companies will need to launch an enormous number of satellites to offer a similar service, AST shouldn’t face too much competition for many years.
https://news.clearancejobs.com/2025/08/25/...could-change-everything/
Rakuten Securities Hong Kong Limited (“Rakuten Securities HK”) is proud to launch the Electronic Direct Debit Authorization (eDDA), an almost instant funding service designed to streamline and simplify the deposit experience, for our clients in Hong Kong.
With eDDA, clients can now link their bank accounts directly to their Rakuten FX trading accounts, enabling fast online fund transfers without the need for manual operation or long processing time. This major enhancement aligns with our commitment to deliver faster, safer, and more efficient trading experience.
Key benefits of eDDA:
Seamless fund transfers between local bank accounts and Rakuten FX accounts
No transfer fee from Rakuten Securities HK
24/7 availability, including weekends and public holidays
Clients can now activate eDDA via client portal in just a few steps. Once set up, deposits can be made anytime, anywhere.
eDDA is part of a broader effort to enhance our service level to better support clients in Hong Kong.
About Rakuten Securities HK
Rakuten Securities Hong Kong Limited (Rakuten Securities HK) is a subsidiary of Rakuten Securities, Inc., which is one of the largest online brokers in Japan and a member of Rakuten group. Rakuten Securities HK has been trusted as a pioneer of forex trading in Hong Kong since 2003.
Rakuten Securities HK is regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in Hong Kong (CE no.: AIM232). Clients’ funds are kept in segregated accounts at local licensed banks, separated from Company’s funds. Rest assured that your funds will remain safe and secure regardless of the Company’s financial stability.
Our office is conveniently located in Central, easy to access and always welcome for our guests. Our forex specialists are always here to assist you right away in a professional manner.
https://www.sec.rakuten.com.hk/en/press-release/edda-launch
Amazing Automation! Inside Rakuten Mart's Logistics Warehouse
August 28, 2025
Step into the cutting-edge logistics warehouse of Rakuten Mart, where groceries and daily essentials are delivered on the same day! From container assembly to sorting and transport powered by a variety of machinery and AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) zipping through the facility, the automation of nearly every process is a must see. Leveraging the synergy of advanced technology with dedicated staff who meticulously check freshness daily, Rakuten Mart ensures swift delivery of high-quality products to customers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqYQO19w0No
Inside job: “30,000 people, but still a start-up”, says CMO Naho Kano on Rakuten’s human-first marketing From AI cutting time spent on creative work by 81% to building loyalty across 70+ businesses, Naho Kono shares how Rakuten keeps marketing fresh with an agile, personal, and always human-first outlook.
Read more at: https://www.campaignasia.com/article/...-human-first-marketing/504468
Consolidated Summary of FY 2025/9 Q3 Operating Profit nearly doubled due to contributions from positive progress of HOME'S Services (After removing one-off gains in the previous FY).
https://lifull.com/doc/2025/08/FY2025Q3_Earnings_Pres_En.pdf