Cross-border M&A Advisory with Insight and Integrity
We advise small to mid-sized companies in Japan and internationally on business succession, strategic M&A, and Japan market entry. With extensive international experience and a strong global network, we connect Japan and the world.
Services
M&A Advisory
Advisory services for small to mid-sized companies including valuation, negotiation support, and end-to-end transaction management.
Business Succession Support
M&A and succession planning for companies facing succession challenges, with carefully tailored advice aligned with the owner’s intentions.
Cross-border M&A / Japan Market Entry
Research, deal sourcing, and matchmaking for overseas companies seeking to acquire Japanese businesses, supported by strong networks across Asia and North America.
Strategic M&A & Growth Advisory
Advisory services on leveraging M&A as part of medium- to long-term growth strategies.
Profile
Kosei Kobayashi, President & CEO
Kosei Kobayashi earned his B.A. in Economics from Keio University (1987) and completed his graduate studies at New York University, SPS (Journalism) in 1998.
He began his career at Sanwa Bank (now MUFG Bank), working in international finance in Tokyo and later in New York. He managed credit operations for financial institutions across Asia, the United States, and Latin America, gaining early leadership experience in multicultural environments.
Kobayashi then joined Sekai Bunka Publishing as Editorial Director in New York, overseeing international coverage for several magazines and collaborating with global luxury brands such as Calvin Klein, Estée Lauder, DKNY, Tiffany & Co., and Harry Winston. After returning to Tokyo, he held senior roles across advertising, editorial, and corporate finance, contributing to major initiatives including an M&A transaction and successful publishing and branding projects.
In 2016, he founded KK Holdings Inc., providing M&A advisory, business succession planning, international marketing, and Japan-market entry support for overseas companies. Leveraging his extensive global network and diverse industry experience, he specializes in connecting Japanese and international businesses, particularly in cross-border M&A.
Since 2020, he has served as a Board Member and, from 2022, a Managing Director at the International House of Japan, where he supports international collaboration and cultural exchange initiatives.
Network & Affiliations
Key Roles & Appointments
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Senior Adviser, Investment Advisory Firm
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Managing Director (Development & Membership), International House of Japan
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Executive Director, Value Creation Forum 21
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Trustee, Grew Bancroft Foundation
Professional Memberships & Networks
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Japan–U.S. relations and international exchange organizations
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Asia-Pacific policy, business, and intellectual networks
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University alumni leadership and advisory networks
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Major private membership clubs in Tokyo
Maintains an extensive international network across finance, culture, education, and public policy, spanning Japan, Asia, and Western markets.