Rakuten wesentlich besser als Rocket
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/
Nomura upgrades Rakuten (RKUNF) to a Buy
Aug 26, 2025
In a report released today, Daisaku Masuno from Nomura upgraded Rakuten to a Buy, with a price target of Yen1,085.00.
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
21 hours
Earlier this year, Rakuten Bank reached 17 million accounts in Japan – without a single physical branch.
“Rakuten Bank is Japan’s largest digital bank in terms of both the number of accounts and total deposits,” President and CEO Tomotaka Torin told the Rakuten AI Optimism conference in July. “We’ve reached 17 million accounts and deposits totaling 12 trillion yen, and both our account numbers and total deposits have been steadily growing.”
Torin, who joined Rakuten Securities in 2006 and became CEO of Rakuten Bank in June 2025, has built his career across institutions including SBI Shinsei Bank, the Asian Development Bank and Mizuho Bank. At the conference, he broke down the secrets behind Rakuten Bank’s rapid ascent – and how AI is shaping the industry.
How Rakuten built Japan’s biggest online bank
The heart of Rakuten Bank’s success, according to Torin, lies in treating banking as a service people actively choose, rather than something they’re locked into. For decades, licensed banking in Japan meant uniform products and little competition. But the arrival of fintech and non-bank entrants changed the game, and Rakuten Bank responded by building unmatched flexibility into its services.
“We see banking as a service industry, and our goal is to be the bank people choose,” Torin said. “Customers can use our services anytime, anywhere, and our integrated app offers a wide range of services in one place, in a clear and easy-to-use way.” The Rakuten Bank app can handle everything from transfers to mortgage applications, eliminating the need for a trip to a branch during business hours. This convenience is reinforced by a loyalty program offering free transfers, ATM withdrawals, and extra Rakuten Points – a natural fit in the wider Rakuten ecosystem.
Value powered by the Rakuten Ecosystem
“The Rakuten Group has more than 70 diverse services, all linked together into an ecosystem. Rakuten Bank is one part of that, collaborating with various businesses.”
Intra-ecosystem partnerships multiply the value. Customers can link their accounts with Rakuten Pay for automatic top-ups, or with Rakuten Card for balance alerts and preferential interest rates.
Integration extends to Rakuten Securities, Rakuten Life, and Rakuten Ichiba through the SPU program, which rewards bank customers with extra points when shopping.
Beyond the Group, Rakuten Bank offers BaaS (banking-as-a-service) for companies like JR East. Furthermore, it is developing products for Japan’s aging population, such as reverse mortgages and residual value type mortgage loans.
Meanwhile, Rakuten Bank is tapping inbound tourism demand, enabling visitors to use their home country’s cashless payment systems in Japan and working to expand the network of merchants who accept them.
“Providing services that match diverse lifestyles is one of our key themes,” Torin said. “We value not only meeting existing needs but also identifying latent needs – needs that customers might not even be aware of themselves. To meet them, we focus on continuously offering convenient, cost-effective services.”
AI: The next leap in convenience
Digital-first may already be part of Rakuten Bank’s DNA, but Torin sees artificial intelligence as the engine for what comes next. AI is already assisting loan approvals and providing chatbot-based customer service, but Torin’s ambitions go further.
“Our vision is to provide each customer with personalized financial services as if they had their own dedicated banker.” This could take the form of AI-curated, personalized app screens, or an evolving AI concierge that can anticipate needs in natural conversation. “You’ll be able to handle everything smoothly through voice, without the hassle of typing.”
Before login, AI will be able guide customers through processes; after login, it could act as a teller, tailoring its explanations to each user.
“AI can adjust its explanations to be as detailed or concise as needed,” Torin explained. “This allows us to propose solutions based on latent needs – for example, supporting planned repayment of card or home loans, or giving household budgeting advice by predicting shortfalls in advance.”
Behind the scenes, AI is already streamlining everything from call center operations to report generation. “By analyzing large volumes of loan applications and automating screening, we shorten lead times and expand our range of personal loans.”
Even in a fully digital model, Torin believes personal connection is irreplaceable. He likens Rakuten Bank’s role to that of a primary care doctor – helping customers navigate life events.
“If you consult about travel, we can offer travel insurance and promotions; if you ask about household budgeting, we can help review telecom costs and guide you in earning more points – tapping into the entire Rakuten Ecosystem.”
Japan is embracing digital
Rakuten Bank’s growth reflects a wider transformation in Japan’s banking habits. A recent MyVoice survey revealed that 70% of Japanese people now use internet banking, with nearly half choosing Rakuten Bank.
Traditional banks are racing to catch up, with over one trillion yen in digital investment planned for fiscal 2025. Yet over the past five years, digital banks like Rakuten Bank have grown deposits at an average rate of 16.5%, compared to 3.8% for the megabanks.
The share of users choosing Rakuten Bank as their main account has risen 12.7% in the past year to 5.6 million – a third of the total customer base, leaving significant room for deeper engagement from existing users.
With deposits exceeding 12 trillion yen and over 17 million accounts opened to date, Torin says the bank’s growth is proof of the value of integrated services and customer-first thinking.
“Rakuten Bank will continue striving to be the bank customers choose, offering new financial experiences and contributing to society. We hope you’ll look forward to what’s next.”
https://rakuten.today/blog/...uten-bank-ceo-tomotaka-torins-take.html
August 29, 2025
In the dynamic and hyper-connected telecommunications industry, a unified backup and restore solution is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. Our proposed solution, designed as a uniform centralized backup and restore system, directly addresses the current challenges of fragmented approaches and immature backup processes. By providing a unified, automated, and intelligent platform for protecting all critical network assets, operators can significantly enhance their resilience, minimize downtime, ensure data integrity, and maintain customer trust.
Looking ahead, the integration of AI/ML-driven automation into backup and restore processes will further reduce OPEX and minimize service downtime. This comprehensive approach safeguards against the multifaceted threats of today's digital landscape, empowering telcos to deliver uninterrupted, high-quality services and secure their future growth through a truly telecom carrier-grade, scalable, and common architectural framework.
https://symphony.rakuten.com/blog/achieving-uninterrupted-service
The four key pillars of Rakuten Symphony business
Our BU Presidents' Vision | Rakuten Symphony at MWC 2025
April 14, 2025
James Dartnell, Director, Corporate Communications hosts a fascinating panel session starring Rakuten Symphony's panel of experts, including President of OSS BU, Vivek Murthy, President of Cloud BU, Partha Seetala, RAN BU President, Anil Sawkar and our President of Internet Services BU, Ryan Son. The leaders from the four key pillars of Rakuten Symphony's business discuss the most interesting topics that are driving our product vision and strategy, and what it takes to deliver success in telecom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUY_aXj0vNY&t=488s
7 hours ag
Artificial Intelligence has come a long way from simple chatbots to intelligent agents who can orchestrate workflows with multiple tasks, interpret intent based on context, and reshape how we engage with digital ecosystems. As a leader of homegrown AI solutions for the Japanese market, Rakuten is building its own AI agent platform that doesn’t just answer questions but understands the context of life in Japan and beyond.
On July 30, Rakuten announced the full-scale launch of Rakuten AI, a new, cutting-edge AI agent platform designed to enhance user experiences and streamline interactions across the Rakuten Ecosystem, as well as enrich and empower daily life.
We spoke to Zoey Zhao, Senior Product Manager at Rakuten AI and Data Division, who is deeply involved in Rakuten AI’s development. With a unique background in aerospace engineering, a deep interest in Natural Language Processing (NLP), and a passion for user-first design, she offers rare insight into how the product evolved from a helpful assistant to an intelligent and understanding AI agent platform for one of Japan’s most diverse ecosystems.
https://rakuten.today/blog/...e-rakuten-ai-zoey-zhao-on-a-agents.html