Rakuten wesentlich besser als Rocket

As of September 2024, the Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) market is projected to be worth approximately $2.8 billion1. The market is expected to grow significantly, reaching around $20.9 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of Open RAN technologies in both public and private networks, with a notable focus on brownfield deployments1.

Source: Copilot of Bing  

https://www.rakuten-sec.co.jp/web/info/info20240823-01.html
 

 

By Luu Quy   July 17, 2024 | 02:00 am PT

Last year it was used by 13% of internet users aged 16 to 64 in Vietnam and 12th most popular among social media platforms, with Facebook, Zalo, TikTok, and Messenger claiming the top spots.

Raykov said while Viber is far from reaching the level of popularity enjoyed by local app Zalo, it could still take advantage of the gap in demand that other companies have not prioritized.

People use other apps for general conversation, but look to Viber when they need high security and protection, he said.

"We aim to reach professionals who trust that our technology can protect the most important contents."

Viber is also working to partner with banks in Vietnam to add a feature that allows users to inform each other about a successful bank transfer.
The company also hopes to reach customers in the public sector and major businesses, Raykov added.

https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/companies/...-race-4771091.html
 

Rakuten Mobile is improving monetization by operating as a platform, not as an MNO.

https://symphony.rakuten.com/dtw-2024
 

Race to expand corporate economic blocs heats up in Japan

Mar 25, 2024

Competition is escalating among corporate groups in Japan as they strive to expand their spheres of influence by enticing customers with a variety of services, often bolstered by reward points, primarily geared toward shopping purposes.

Mobile phone service providers such as NTT Docomo are following the lead of internet-related conglomerate Rakuten Group, while megabanks are also entering the market, driven by the prospect of rising interest rates in Japan.

The field of competition has expanded to include securities companies, which have been leveraging the increasing interest in investment among retail investors following the expansion of the tax-exempt investment program known as NISA in January.

According to a survey conducted last year by Tokyo-based research company MMD Labo, 70.2% of respondents indicated that they utilized services while considering the "economic spheres" of corporate groups.

Regarding the most frequently used reward points, Rakuten Point ranked first, with 35.0%, followed by NTT Docomo's d Point, with 14.0%.

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2024/03/25/...t-reward-service/
 

It sounds like Rakuten’s overseas businesses are thriving!

Rakuten TV: 112.1 million users, up 44.2% year-over-year.
Rakuten Kobo: 66.6 million registered users, up 6.2% year-over-year, and already profitable.
Viber: 1.5 billion users, up 5.3% year-over-year, and also profitable.
Viki: About 90 million users and profitable as well.

These numbers are impressive and show significant growth and profitability across various platforms.

Source: Bing Copilot  

Rakuten’s strategy to scale its AI efforts involves several key components:

In-House Development: By building AI solutions from the ground up, Rakuten ensures a deep understanding of the technology, which allows for more tailored and effective implementations.

Integration Across Ecosystem: Leveraging AI across the entire Rakuten ecosystem amplifies its impact, enhancing various services and operations.

Focus on Efficiency: The “Triple 20” objective aims to improve operational, marketing, and client efficiency by 20% each, driving significant business improvements.

Practical and Cost-Effective Solutions: Emphasizing practical applications and cost-effectiveness ensures that AI initiatives are sustainable and deliver tangible benefits.

Continuous Innovation: Staying at the forefront of AI advancements and continuously integrating new technologies helps maintain a competitive edge.


By focusing on these areas, Rakuten aims to not only enhance its own operations but also deliver superior value to its customers.

Source: Bing Copilot  

Environmentally Friendly Attire Showcased at Tokyo Fashion Week; Brand Displays Clothes Dyed with Low-Water Technology

Rakuten Fashion Week Tokyo for the spring and summer 2025 season opened on Monday, with about 30 fashion brands from home and abroad taking part in the official program alone.

https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/culture/fashion/20240904-208940/
 

Rakuten Travel steps up engagement with Singaporeans

By TTG Asia

Posted on 12 April, 2024 15:56

Japanese OTA Rakuten Travel recently hosted a closed-door influencer gathering as well as a public engagement in Singapore’s CBD in a bid to inspire greater interest in Japan.

The influencer gathering on March 27 was attended by almost 40 guests with a combined reach of nearly four million. Attendees were introduced to Rakuten Travel’s extensive features, including its wide range of travel services and the largest selection of Japanese hotels among travel agencies in Japan.

Rakuten Travel provides an extensive range of ryokans (Japanese-style inns) and hotels throughout the country and is committed to offering a “Japan Quality” experience throughout the entire accommodation booking journey.

https://www.ttgasia.com/2024/04/12/...p-engagement-with-singaporeans/