CASE STUDIES
Our case studies highlight IFC’s proven expertise
in crafting tailored communication strategies that drive results.
From market entry to reputation management,
discover how we’ve empowered
global financial institutions
to succeed in Japan’s complex market.
Case Study 1:
Transforming Perception Through Media Strategy
Client: A global asset manager
Challenge:
The client needed to raise awareness about its investment philosophy among individual and institutional investors while overcoming a garded attitude toward media interaction, especially with prominent outlets like Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei).
Solution:
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Identified key media targets, including Nikkei Group publications,
as critical platforms for outreach. -
Developed annual PR and marketing plans in collaboration with global teams.
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Conducted thorough briefings to carefully selected journalists to build relationships.
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Facilitated interviews and coverage on topics like pension law reforms and bond investment.
Results:
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A 1400% increase in PR-generated articles over two years.
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Asset under management (AUM) in Japan tripled in the same period.
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Dramatic improvement in public understanding of the client’s investment philosophy.
Case Study 2:
Establishing Market Presence for an oversea’s Asset Manager
Client: An oversea’s asset manager entering Japan
Challenge:
The client lacked brand recognition and a reputation in Japan, and needed to position itself as a leader in ESG and alternative investments.
Solution:
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Organized a high-profile press conference for the Tokyo office opening.
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Facilitated media seminars and regular journalist briefings on ESG topics.
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Coordinated opportunities for leadership to present at forums and universities.
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Arranged contributions to Nikkei Group publications and implemented targeted advertising, including advertorials in key media.
Results:
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Significant improvement in the client’s brand ranking among Japanese institutional investors.
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AUM in Japan more than tripled within three years.
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The client became recognized as a frontrunner in ESG and alternative investments.
Case Study 3:
Changing the Narrative for Private Equity (PE) /
Private Debt (PD) Funds
Client: An independent PE/PD fund.
Challenge:
There was a strong misconception among Japanese pension funds, institutional investors, and media that private equity (PE) funds achieved returns at the expense of their portfolio companies. Additionally, there was low awareness of private debt (PD) funds.
Solution:
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Focused PR programs on the fund’s positive contributions to business revitalization.
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Partnered with local banks and associations to host seminars for SMEs and accountants.
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Supported the production of educational content, including books for SME owners.
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Conducted outreach to senior journalists, providing in-depth briefings on PE/PD benefits.
Results:
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Improved perception of PE/PD funds as enablers of business transformation and industry revival.
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Increased positive media coverage by senior journalists on PE/PD fund operations and impacts.
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Increased funding and inquiries from SMEs that led to selected investments by the firm.
Case Study 4:
Building Industry Leadership for a Global Logistics Real Estate Developer
Client: A global logistics real estate developer.
Challenge:
The client needed to increase brand awareness in Japan, differentiate from competitors, expand their end-user base, and establish their role as the No. 1 industry leader while highlighting the societal importance of logistics and logistics facilities.
Solution:
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Organized journalist briefings, press conferences, and facility tours with major media to highlight the client’s strengths and create differentiation.
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Partnered with industry associations and media to host client seminars and targeted advertising for end-users.
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Secured participation in the Ministry of Land’s logistics advisory council and sustained coverage in key outlets like Nikkei and NHK.
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Conducted community events with local governments to promote coexistence and social contributions.
Results:
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Increased media coverage from 180 to 900 articles annually within three years, including Nikkei front-page features.
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Doubled the proportion of end-users among clients, with continued growth.
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Secured participation in key government councils and reinforced the client’s image as the industry leader.
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Established logistics as a key societal infrastructure, driving regional coexistence trends.
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