Crowdcredit

Crowd Credit operates as a cross-border, debt-based crowdfunding platform, strategically connecting Japanese investors with global credit markets. Established in January 2013, the Tokyo-headquartered firm was founded by Tomoyoki Sugiyama, who now serves as an advisor. The company's business model is centered on providing an alternative asset class to Japanese investors, who can leverage the country's low-interest-rate environment to invest in higher-yield debt opportunities abroad. At the same time, it offers entities in emerging markets a diversified source of funding.

The platform channels capital to a variety of sectors, including microfinance institutions, non-bank financial institutions, and renewable energy projects. This approach is not only geared towards financial returns but also aims to generate positive social impact, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals. The company facilitates investments in various currencies, which helps borrowing entities hedge against market fluctuations. Crowd Credit's revenue is generated through fees, such as fund management and loan arrangement fees, which are deducted from the disbursed loan amounts. Notable investment funds have included support for female entrepreneurs in Peru and projects in unelectrified areas of Southeast Asia.

The firm has achieved significant scale, with cumulative loan issuances surpassing approximately USD 383 million and assets under management (AUM) of around USD 90 million as of early 2024. It serves a large base of approximately 59,000 registered investors. Following financial challenges in its European portfolio due to the global downturn, Crowd Credit was acquired by Bankers Holding Co., Ltd. via a share swap transaction that closed on January 1, 2023. This strategic partnership was sought to support its business and aligns with Bankers' goal of global expansion. Under new ownership and the leadership of CEO Go Iwata, the company continues its mission to optimize global capital flows.

Keywords: debt crowdfunding, peer-to-peer lending, social impact investing, cross-border investment, Japanese investors, emerging markets finance, microfinance, fintech lending, alternative assets, renewable energy finance, global credit markets, P2P lending Japan, financial inclusion, debt capital, asset management, high-yield investments, foreign loans, sustainable development, credit investment, portfolio diversification