• Doug Coulter, Partner, Head of Private Equity, Asia Pacific, LGT Capital Partners
• Kazushige Kobayashi, Managing Director, MCP Asset Management
• Stephanie Li,  Reporter, DealStreetAsia [Moderator]

Japan’s private equity (PE) market is undergoing a significant transformation, making it increasingly attractive to global investors. Historically hindered by negative perceptions, limited accessibility, and low deal penetration, Japan is now experiencing a resurgence driven by macroeconomic recovery, corporate governance reforms, and shifting demographics.
A key driver of deal flow is business succession, as a growing number of aging SME owners lack successors, creating compelling buyout opportunities. Meanwhile, PE entry multiples in Japan remain lower than in the US and Europe, offering relative value. With strong DPI performance, rising exit volumes, and increased shareholder activism, Japan’s PE landscape is evolving into a fertile ground for investors seeking to diversify their Asia exposure. How can private equity investors best position themselves to capitalise on Japan’s succession-driven buyout opportunities amid rising shareholder activism?