On November 5, global interactive live streaming platform 17LIVE announced its full acquisition of Japanese virtual talent company N Craft, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary. This acquisition not only broadens 17LIVE’s virtual streaming portfolio but also adds approximately 140 proprietary virtual influencers to its network. The move aligns with 17LIVE’s 2024 “Advance Strategy,” which focuses on three core initiatives: enhancing platform competitiveness, diversifying revenue streams, and pursuing mergers, acquisitions, and cross-industry partnerships. As demand for virtual content surges, 17LIVE aims to leverage N Craft’s technology and resources to further strengthen its leadership in the virtual streaming market.
Purpose of M&A
17LIVE is a leading interactive live streaming platform driven by innovative real-time interactive content. In 2024, the company introduced its “17LIVE Advance Strategy,” focusing on strengthening platform competitiveness, diversifying revenue sources, and pursuing mergers and cross-industry collaborations to further expand its global business footprint.
17LIVE is optimistic about the growth potential in the virtual talent industry. Benefiting from Japan's rich anime culture and growing global demand for virtual content, 17LIVE aims to expand its virtual talent offerings through the acquisition of N Craft. This acquisition not only brings around 140 new virtual influencers into 17LIVE's portfolio but also allows the company to combine N Craft's technical expertise, thereby enhancing content creation capabilities, technical strengths, and user engagement. This move is expected to have a positive impact on 17LIVE’s tangible net asset value per share and earnings per share by the end of 2024.
The acquisition was completed using 17LIVE’s internal funds, covering the entirety of N Craft's shares and fully integrating its brand and operations into 17LIVE's structure. There was no stock exchange involved, and the specific acquisition amount was not disclosed.
Timeline
Announcement Date: November 5, 2024
Purpose of M&A
17LIVE is a leading interactive live streaming platform driven by innovative real-time interactive content. In 2024, the company introduced its “17LIVE Advance Strategy,” focusing on strengthening platform competitiveness, diversifying revenue sources, and pursuing mergers and cross-industry collaborations to further expand its global business footprint.
17LIVE is optimistic about the growth potential in the virtual talent industry. Benefiting from Japan's rich anime culture and growing global demand for virtual content, 17LIVE aims to expand its virtual talent offerings through the acquisition of N Craft. This acquisition not only brings around 140 new virtual influencers into 17LIVE's portfolio but also allows the company to combine N Craft's technical expertise, thereby enhancing content creation capabilities, technical strengths, and user engagement. This move is expected to have a positive impact on 17LIVE’s tangible net asset value per share and earnings per share by the end of 2024.
The acquisition was completed using 17LIVE’s internal funds, covering the entirety of N Craft's shares and fully integrating its brand and operations into 17LIVE's structure. There was no stock exchange involved, and the specific acquisition amount was not disclosed.
Timeline
Announcement Date: November 5, 2024
