Episode 119 – The Growth Rocketship: How Rakuten Capital Masters Diplomatic Capitalism

The corporate venture capital arm of Rakuten Group, Rakuten Capital invests in innovative startups across fintech, AI, and other high-growth sectors. Since its founding in 2014, Rakuten Capital has invested in companies like Lyft, Pinterest, Careem, and Upstart, establishing itself as a distinctive force in corporate venture investing. In this episode of Connected With Latham, Haim Zaltzman, Global Vice Chair of Latham's Emerging Companies & Growth Practice, sits down with Saemin Ahn, Managing Partner of Rakuten Capital and Executive Officer of Rakuten Group, to discuss Rakuten Capital's investment thesis, its approach to AI infrastructure and energy, and the art of diplomatic capitalism.   This podcast is provided as a service of Latham & Watkins LLP. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney client relationship between you and Latham & Watkins LLP, and you should not send confidential information to Latham & Watkins LLP. While we make every effort to assure that the content of this podcast is accurate, comprehensive, and current, we do not warrant or guarantee any of those things and you may not rely on this podcast as a substitute for legal research and/or consulting a qualified attorney. Listening to this podcast is not a substitute for engaging a lawyer to advise on your individual needs. Should you require legal advice on the issues covered in this podcast, please consult a qualified attorney. Under New York's Code of Professional Responsibility, portions of this communication contain attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each representation. Please direct all inquiries regarding the conduct of Latham and Watkins attorneys under New York's Disciplinary Rules to Latham & Watkins LLP, 1271 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020, Phone: 1.212.906.1200