UNIVA and Oak, the Dawn of a New World

Asakura: Mr. Muneyuki, as the COO of UNIVA Oak, how do you see the name change?

Muneyuki: I think Inaba is right, the company name change was necessary to strengthen the cooperation between Oak and UNIVA. It is not only about management philosophy, but also has a significant practical impact. Oak moved its main financial business to Sterling Securities about two years ago, and is now making a transition to other diversified business operations. Moreover, in fact, Sterling Securities' experience and track record in various types of businesses in the financial business has also been useful. If you only provide financial services, it is difficult to differentiate yourself from competitors and have people choose your company. In this environment, our differentiation lies in the fact that we can talk with the owners and top management of listed companies, our main clients, about management issues and other matters from a business perspective. With this name change, we hope to further strengthen the collaboration between Oak and UNIVA to accelerate the speed of growth for both.

Asakura: I thought that the company name change was mostly a philosophical discussion! I see, so the company name change was necessary from a practical standpoint as well. Indeed, for Oak, it is a banner of moving away from finance. The goal is for each company to accelerate the growth of each other's business while doing their own business based on a shared philosophy. I look forward to what lies ahead.

Muneyuki: The fusion of the two companies has already begun. For example, Mr. Ubatani, President of UNIVA JAPAN, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of North Energy, a subsidiary of Oak, and has been deeply involved in the company to see the business. UNIVA JAPAN is also working with North Energy on a project in Horokanai Town, Hokkaido.

Asakura: Are there any plans for collaboration between the two companies or new business together in the near future?

Inaba: UNIVA Oak, which is a publicly traded company, can do more investment banking and other services, which is advantageous. But will the companies on the UNIVA CAPITAL side soon become part of UNIVA Oak? It is not. However, it is UNIVA CAPITAL that can move with speed and light footwork. Our priority now is to "get the best of both worlds" and grow by using both companies in a positive way.

Asakura: The food and beverage revitalization business is truly "taking the best of both worlds," isn't it?

Inaba: Yes! UNIVA CAPITAL was responsible for the restaurant that opened at GINZA SIX in August 2023. Due to the location, competition was stiff and speed was required. So first, UNIVA CAPITAL invests and executes the store opening plan. When the investment yield becomes clear, it can be transferred to Re-Dining Co., Ltd. under Oak to accelerate the speed of store openings. Private companies and listed companies collaborate to "get the best of both worlds". It's strong to be able to do this. If we can increase the value we can provide to society, we will reach the position we desire!

Asakura: What about personnel exchange? I think this is where NAKAMA's interests and concerns lie.

Inaba: At the moment, we are not thinking about personnel exchange. But I would like to make opportunities. Currently, transfers between UNIVA CAPITAL groups are quite common. We hope to help individuals step up and advance their careers.

Asakura: If people share the same philosophy, interaction will naturally increase, relationships will deepen, and the business will grow. It is truly an ideal body of value co-creation.