Rakuten Group (OTCMKTS:RKUNF) is a Japan-based technology and internet services company founded in 1997 by Hiroshi Mikitani, who continues to serve as chairman and chief executive officer. The company operates a broad ecosystem of businesses spanning e-commerce, fintech, communications, digital content, travel, and other online services. Rakuten says its global ecosystem includes more than 70 businesses.
Its principal businesses include Rakuten Ichiba, an online shopping marketplace; Rakuten Travel, a lodging and travel-booking service; and digital advertising and content offerings. Rakuten also provides financial services through businesses including Rakuten Card, Rakuten Bank, and Rakuten Securities. In telecommunications, Rakuten Mobile operates a mobile network and related communications services in Japan.
Originally founded in 1997, Rakuten launched Rakuten Ichiba that same year and completed its initial public offering in Japan on April 19, 2000. The company later listed on the former First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December 2013 and transitioned to the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market in April 2022.
Rakuten primarily serves consumers and businesses in Japan while maintaining international operations and partnerships across e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications.
RKUNF represents Rakuten Group’s ordinary shares traded over the counter in the United States. Investors can also trade the company through its sponsored Level I American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) under the ticker RKUNY, with each ADR representing one ordinary share.
