Building a structure for overseas expansion

I have worked with Mr. Yanagisawa since 2020, when Stake Technologies was expanding overseas.

We originally started through a Japanese company, but decided to move our base to Singapore to build a global business. He designed the restructuring needed to transfer the business from the Japanese company to the Singapore company. His support covered the entire process, from the business transfer to closing the Japanese company, rather than simply setting up a company overseas.

At the time, we created a Messenger group bringing together professionals in Japan and Singapore and our team. He helped clarify the different tax rules and procedures in each country and work out the practical steps. As I told everyone at the end of 2020, I do not think we could have moved that quickly without their help.

Overseas relocation and personal tax

Alongside the company's overseas expansion, I asked him to handle the tax aspects of my own relocation. He handled the payment deferral procedures for Japan's exit tax and also acts as my tax agent.

Moving overseas does not eliminate the tax matters that need handling in Japan. It is reassuring to be able to consult someone who understands the company about my personal procedures and matters arising after relocation as well.

From Astar to the next stage

The project we developed, Astar Network, saw its ASTR token listed on overseas exchanges in January 2022, and trading in Japan began in September that year. Our discussions with Mr. Yanagisawa about overseas expansion began before that.

Our business and organization evolve as we build technology and services for people around the world. Because he knows how it all began, we have maintained a relationship in which we can consult him as things change.

Our introduction to Sony

Mr. Yanagisawa also introduced us to Sony Network Communications. They were also a client of his firm, and he connected the two companies.

Subsequently, a capital alliance with Startale was announced in June 2023, followed by the establishment of a joint venture that year. This initiative led to Soneium, which launched its mainnet in January 2025。

The two companies held many discussions and undertook extensive development to reach that point, but the introduction that started it all remains memorable. A tax advisory relationship also led to a business partnership.

Looking ahead

Our relationship has continued from the Stake Technologies era to today's Startale. As we continue building for the world, I hope to keep turning to Mr. Yanagisawa for advice.