Strengthening Regional M&A Collaboration: Nihon M&A Center Shares Insights at Asia’s M&A Compass 2025

As Asia’s dealmaking landscape continues to evolve amid shifting economic, regulatory developments, and geopolitical trends, collaboration and knowledge-sharing have become more important than ever. Bringing together experienced M&A professionals, industry leaders, investors, and M&A enthusiasts from across the region, the Asia’s M&A Compass: Navigating Geopolitics and Charting Growth conference, held on 7 November 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, served as a key platform to exchange insights and strengthen regional connections.

In line with our commitment to support the growth of the M&A ecosystem across ASEAN regions, Nihon M&A Center was honored to take part in this inaugural event, organized by the M&A Association Singapore, a newly established association by the Institute for Mergers, Acquisitions, and Alliances (IMAA). Representing our firm, Regional Head for Southeast Asia, Mr. Yusuke Ojima, was invited as a speaker and shared his perspectives and experiences on Japan’s M&A trends and cross-border opportunities between Japan and ASEAN through two engaging sessions during the conference.

In his first session, Mr. Yusuke spoke about Japan’s evolving M&A environment, highlighting why more Japanese companies are actively investing in ASEAN and what key trends have emerged among the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) over the past decades. He also shared insights into the distinct characteristics of Japanese investors and discussed how local business owners can better prepare for an M&A journey, emphasizing the importance of aligning vision, values, and long-term strategy to build meaningful and sustainable partnerships with Japanese counterparts. His session sparked an engaging discussion among participants, who raised thoughtful questions on topics such as post-merger cultural integration, how ASEAN companies can expand into Japan, and the practical steps involved in building trust with Japanese counterparts. 

To provide participants with a more first-hand and practical perspective, Mr. Yusuke also invited Mr. Teruaki Sato, President of STG Co. Ltd., one of our clients, to join him on stage in his second session. Together, they presented a case study on STG Co’s recently completed cross-border M&A deal in Malaysia, offering participants an opportunity to hear directly from a Japanese buyer. The discussion covered STG Co’s motivations in pursuing M&A, the real challenges encountered, key learnings, and success factors behind the transaction. It also highlighted how strategic alignment, respect for local culture, and strong communication between both parties are essential to achieving successful integration. Many participants commented that the case study provided valuable, real-world insights into how cross-border M&A deals are executed, while also reinforcing how ASEAN continues to emerge as a dynamic and promising investment destination for Japanese companies.

Throughout the conference, other speakers explored a wide range of topics, including the role of human capital in successful integrations, the growing importance of Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) principles in helping SMEs prepare for M&A, and innovative approaches to managing deal risks through insurance and indemnity solutions. Speakers also shared valuable perspectives on post-merger integration (PMI), which is a critical yet often underestimated stage in realizing long-term value, and on how Asian capital is driving purpose-led investments.

The conference not only served as a platform for sharing insights but also for fostering valuable connections within the regional M&A community. Many participants approached Mr. Yusuke after his sessions to learn more about Japan’s M&A landscape and explore potential opportunities for collaboration. Notably, the organizer also expressed interest in inviting him to speak at future workshops and conferences — a testament to the quality of his insights and Nihon M&A Center’s growing presence in the region.

Reflecting on the discussion, Mr. Yusuke also shared, “What I found most encouraging was the level of engagement from participants across the globe. The questions, conversations, and ideas shared throughout the sessions showed how much commitment there is toward advancing the region’s M&A landscape. I’m confident that this growing spirit of collaboration will continue to strengthen the bridge between Japan and ASEAN in the years ahead.”

At Nihon M&A Center, we believe that meaningful progress in Asia’s M&A landscape comes from collaboration and shared purpose. We are encouraged to see growing awareness and activity across the region, as more companies and professionals recognize the value of M&A in driving sustainable growth and business continuity. Associations such as the M&A Association Singapore play an important role in shaping this evolving ecosystem — connecting practitioners, promoting knowledge exchange, and strengthening the region’s M&A foundation. We share the same vision and remain committed to contributing to the development of a stronger, more connected M&A environment across ASEAN and beyond, where businesses can continue, evolve, and prosper.