Japan IPO Fundraising Slumps To 14-Year Low Amid Deal Drought

Initial public offerings in Japan dropped to 32 through September, marking the lowest nine-month total since 2012 due to regulatory shifts and a lack of AI startups.

Stricter Tokyo Stock Exchange rules requiring growth companies to hold a minimum market value of ¥10 billion have deterred potential listings.

Despite missing the regional artificial intelligence deal boom, bankers expect private equity-backed offerings from firms like KKR and Bain Capital to provide near-term market relief.