SPARX Group

SPARX Group is a prominent Japanese asset management firm headquartered in Tokyo, established in 1989. While their core business spans a wide array of investment strategies, including Japanese equity, global investment, and alternative investments, they are primarily known for their expertise in managing funds across public and private markets. As of December 31, 2023, SPARX Group reported total assets under management (AUM) of approximately JPY 1,514.8 billion, equivalent to over $10.2 billion USD, underscoring their significant presence in the financial sector.

Within their alternative investment division, SPARX Group operates several private equity funds that focus on unlisted companies, predominantly in Japan. These funds aim to provide not only capital but also strategic management support to foster growth. Notable private equity initiatives include the SPARX Mirai Fund, which focuses on regional revitalization by investing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Japan, and the SPARX Green Energy & Technology Fund, dedicated to renewable energy and related technological advancements. The Mirai Fund, for instance, had a size of JPY 10 billion, while the Green Energy & Technology Fund commanded a larger JPY 30 billion.

Given their focus on growth equity and later-stage investments in SMEs and specific sectors like green energy, SPARX Group's typical first cheque sizes are generally in the multi-million dollar range. While specific figures for individual deals are not publicly disclosed, based on the sizes of their dedicated private equity funds and common industry practices for such funds, investments typically range from several million to tens of millions of dollars. These investments are geared towards providing growth capital to established private companies rather than early-stage venture capital for nascent startups.