Road to Open RAN: How AI & Cloud Are Powering Telecom Transformation  Rakuten Symphony x NTT Docomo

December 10, 2025

AI, cloud, and Open RAN are redefining how telecom networks scale and integrate. Rakuten Symphony and NTT Docomo leaders share insights on achieving agility, automation, and cost efficiency while overcoming multi-vendor and legacy integration challenges.

Speakers:
Yoshihiro Nakajima – Director, Network Virtualization Platform, NTT Docomo
Atila Horvat – Head of Portfolio Strategy, Rakuten Symphony

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xxw1cbmGMo8&t=16s
 

Value of the about 31 million AST-shares of Rakuten is about $ 3.2 billion.

That's about $ 1.50 for any of the about 2.15 billion shares of Rakuten.  

Rakuten Securities announced that investment trust balances exceed 20 trillion yen and 5 million investment trust reserve holders
- Balance doubles in about 1 year and 7 months! –

January 9, 2026

https://www.rakuten-sec.co.jp/web/company/newsrelease/fy2026.html
 

Rakuten Mobile Achieves Top Satisfaction Ranking for Three Consecutive Years
Rakuten Mobile Achieves Unprecedented Customer Satisfaction


Rakuten Mobile Inc., a major player in the telecommunications sector, has achieved remarkable recognition in the "2025 Oricon Customer Satisfaction Survey on Mobile Carriers." For three consecutive years, Rakuten Mobile has clinched the top position overall, excelling in eight out of nine evaluation categories. This prestigious accolade, awarded by Oricon Inc. based in Tokyo, underscores Rakuten Mobile's commitment to delivering superior customer service and innovative solutions.

https://third-news.com/article/04e9f002-ce81-11f0-96c2-9ca3ba0a67df

 

Cabify is an app-based platform offering ride-hailing services. Users can book their ride by providing location, passenger details, and more. It offers features like real-time tracking, in-app payments, door-step service, and more. Also, it offers ride-hailing services for corporates. The mobile app is available for both Android and iOS devices.

Key facts about Cabify
Founded Year: 2011
Location: Madrid (Spain)
Stage: Series E
Total Funding till date: $517M
Investors: Rakuten Capital, Seaya and 40 Others
Latest Funding Round: Venture Debt, Jan 11, 2024, $*****
Tracxn Score: 79/100 What is this?
Competitors Rank: 2 of 248 Competitors

https://tracxn.com/d/trending-business-models/...ies#t-4-hopskipdrive

 

AI-RAN Begins the Shift from Concept to Fruition Across Africa

Posted on  January 8, 2026

AI-RAN is also critical for supporting network-as-a-service (NaaS) models and 5G monetization. As 5G networks expand, operators need to offer differentiated services beyond basic connectivity. AI-RAN enables operators to deliver on-demand network slices, edge computing capabilities, and IoT services, without requiring enterprises to invest heavily in infrastructure. This flexibility allows telecom providers to create new revenue streams, reduce capital expenditures, and provide scalable services to businesses and consumers alike.

This year, Telkom Kenya and Rakuten Symphony signed a memorandum of understanding to test Open RAN technology in Kenya, which will help support automation and AI-powered innovation in 5G network operation and future IoT deployments.

Despite its advantages, AI-RAN adoption comes with challenges. Implementing AI requires robust data collection, advanced analytics, and reliable computational infrastructure. Smaller operators may face resource constraints, while regulatory compliance and data privacy remain critical.
For Africa, specifically, partnering with global technology vendors, cloud providers, and AI specialists could help operators overcome these barriers, enabling cost-effective deployment and faster time-to-value.

https://www.telecomreviewafrica.com/articles/...uition-across-africa/
 

Rakuten Viber officially announces partnership with DoubleVerify

14/1/2026

Rakuten Viber officially announced a partnership with DoubleVerify to improve the transparency and efficiency of business advertising activities in the Viber application.

Currently, tens of thousands of brands around the world are choosing Viber as an effective advertising channel to reach a group of highly engaged users. DoubleVerify's technology integration helps brands accurately track where ads are shown, assess visibility and recognition, and provide detailed data on campaign performance.

Thereby, advertisers have more basis to optimize budgets and improve communication efficiency. This cooperation also contributes to protecting brand reputation in the context of increasing concerns about ad fraud and display quality in the digital advertising market.

According to the latest statistics from DV Fraud Lab, the traffic of invalid ads generated by bots has increased by 86%. Besides, 6 out of 10 advertisers said their top concern is where and in the context of the content. In the face of this reality, Rakuten Viber's cooperation with DoubleVerify is considered a strategic step, to ensure that advertising campaigns are implemented in a safe, appropriate and transparent environment.

Through its partnership with DoubleVerify, Rakuten Viber continues to affirm its long-term commitment to building a safe, transparent, and sustainable digital advertising ecosystem, while bringing practical value to advertisers, partners, and users around the globe.

https://baomoi.com/...-cong-bo-hop-tac-voi-doubleverify-c54254955.epi

 

AST SpaceMobile Stock Jumps on Securing Role in U.S. Defense Program

Fri, January 16, 2026

AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS) shares jumped more than 15% on Friday trading after the satellite communications company secured a prime contract position tied to a U.S. defense program.
The company was named among firms eligible to compete for work under the Missile Defense Agency's Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense, or SHIELD, program, according to a Thursday press release.

SHIELD is part of the U.S. government's broader Golden Dome strategy, which aims to strengthen layered defenses across air, missile, space, cyber, and hybrid threat domains. The program is designed to support next-generation technologies that can operate across multiple environments.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/...stock-jumps-securing-182601495.html
 

Rakuten Viber's revenue is estimated to be in the range of
$500 million to $1 billion annually. Specific financial reports for January 2026 are not yet available, as these are typically released quarterly by the parent company, Rakuten Group, Inc.

The most recent reported financial performance for the larger "International business unit" (which includes Rakuten Viber) showed revenue of $486.9 million for Q3 FY2025 (ended September 30, 2025), a 5.4% increase year-over-year.

https://www.google.com/...oHsfXnrX6Nli0pxHRq-IAZ2njy4pT2I&csuir=1
 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTRp3KtESXv/
 

Japan and ASEAN Forge AI Development Partnership to Counter Global Tech Competition

January 16, 2026

Japan and ASEAN have formed a strategic partnership to enhance AI innovation. They will collaborate on research, model development, and regulatory plans. This effort seeks to boost their competitiveness against growing competition from the U.S. and China in AI.

At a meeting in Hanoi, digital ministers stressed the need for inclusive AI growth in Asia. This discussion resulted in a joint statement that outlines their shared goals.

These include:
Collaborative research initiatives
Standardized AI norms
Legislative frameworks for responsible AI adoption

Japan and ASEAN want to build a cooperative ecosystem. This will speed up technology progress. They also aim to tackle the ethical, legal, and social issues of AI.

This agreement strengthens Japan’s ties with Southeast Asian countries. Tokyo wants to expand partnerships beyond its usual markets. It also plans to work together on new technologies for the future.


Japan and ASEAN have formed a strategic partnership to enhance AI innovation. They will collaborate on research, model development, and regulatory plans. This effort seeks to boost their competitiveness against growing competition from the U.S. and China in AI.
At a meeting in Hanoi, digital ministers stressed the need for inclusive AI growth in Asia. This discussion resulted in a joint statement that outlines their shared goals.

These include:
Collaborative research initiatives
Standardized AI norms
Legislative frameworks for responsible AI adoption

Japan and ASEAN want to build a cooperative ecosystem. This will speed up technology progress. They also aim to tackle the ethical, legal, and social issues of AI.

This agreement strengthens Japan’s ties with Southeast Asian countries. Tokyo wants to expand partnerships beyond its usual markets. It also plans to work together on new technologies for the future.

What This Cooperation Means for Japan’s Tech Industry

Japan’s economy thrives on top-notch manufacturing and advanced electronics. It must enhance its semiconductor and AI skills. This will help it stay competitive with North America and China. The new Japan-ASEAN AI partnership is a game-changer for several key reasons:

        1.§Building Regional Tech Powerhouses
Japan partners with ASEAN to explore digital markets in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. This gives Japan access to a wealth of new AI talent and innovation centers. This lets Japanese companies join a bigger ecosystem. Here, working together across borders speeds up research. It also helps turn AI ideas into real-world applications.
ASEAN countries offer diverse data environments and unique market needs. They also have multilingual applications. This variety can enhance AI model development. Logistics, fintech, smart cities, and industrial automation companies can gain from these chances.

        2.§Advancing AI Governance and Legal Frameworks
A key part of the agreement is creating consistent legal standards and rules for AI. This step is essential for scaling and meeting regulations across borders. As global regulations around AI safety, fairness, and transparency evolve, joint Japan–ASEAN work could influence interoperable rules that reduce compliance costs and legal uncertainty for regional AI businesses.
This cooperation may also position Japan as a thought leader in ethical AI governance — an important differentiator compared to more permissive innovation models seen elsewhere.

        3.§Balancing Global Tech Competition
Japan’s partnership with ASEAN on AI is a smart move. It balances ties with tech giants like the U.S. and China. It also boosts regional innovation.
Japanese firms can take advantage of early mover benefits in Southeast Asia. This helps them create alternatives to the leading U.S. and Chinese tech platforms. They can rely less on these ecosystems. This also boosts regional resilience.

Conclusion
Japan is enhancing its AI agreement with ASEAN. This puts it at the forefront of tech partnerships in a fast-changing world. Japan and ASEAN are collaborating on AI development, research, and regulations. This partnership boosts regional connections. It also creates new chances for Japanese tech companies and investors. It shows how countries can team up in technology. The focus is on inclusivity and future growth.

https://itbusinesstoday.com/tech/ai/...unter-global-tech-competition/

 

Rakuten Travel Xchange is heading to FITUR 2026 in Madrid. You’ll be able to meet Olga Maria Grzesiuk and Muhsin Doğrucan at Hall 12 – Stand Travelgate D02 from January 21 to 23. They will be discussing partnerships, new markets and business opportunities during the trade fair.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/...r-activity-7416456431891259392-ZCEm
 

from his ownerhship of 31 million AST-shares and get for this 6 million AST-shares about $ 690 million and use it for the repay of debts.

I believe such a diversification of risks is  part of good risk-management.  

Top Institutional Holders

    Holder    Shares§Date Reported % Out Value

Rakuten Group, Inc. 31.02M Sep 30, 2025 11.17% 3,591,203,240
Vanguard Group Inc 19.92M Sep 30, 2025 7.18% 2,306,125,366
Blackrock Inc. 10.68M Sep 30, 2025 3.85% 1,235,981,206
Alphabet Inc. 8.94M Sep 30, 2025 3.22% 1,035,387,344

https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/ASTS/holders/
 

The global open RAN market size was estimated at USD 6.53 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 45.09 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 26.8% from 2026 to 2033. An open radio access network, open RAN or O-RAN, is a nonproprietary version of the radio access network (RAN) that allows interoperation between cellular network equipment provided by different vendors.

https://www.grandviewresearch.com/...-analysis/open-ran-market-report

 

Worth around USD 79,379 Million by 2034

The Global Open RAN Market size is expected to be worth around USD 79,379 Million By 2034, from USD 2,957 Million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 38.9% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. North America dominated a 34.6% market share in 2024 and held USD 1,024.3 Million in revenue from the Open Ran Market.

The market for Open RAN is experiencing significant growth, propelled by its promise to reduce costs and increase system flexibility. With the backing of major telecom operators and the active involvement of a broad array of equipment vendors, the Open RAN ecosystem is rapidly expanding. This market evolution is driven by both technological advancements and strategic partnerships among key industry players, making Open RAN a viable alternative to traditional RAN solutions.

The main drivers of Open RAN adoption include the need for greater network flexibility, reduced vendor lock-in, and lower capital and operational expenditures. These factors are crucial as operators seek more customizable and cost-effective solutions in the face of evolving consumer demands and the ongoing rollout of 5G networks.

Key Players Analysis

In the dynamic landscape of the global Open RAN market in 2023, key players like Rakuten Group, Inc., Nokia Corporation, and Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson are strategically positioned to drive significant advancements and adoption of Open RAN technologies.

Rakuten Group, Inc. stands out as a pioneer, having successfully deployed one of the world’s first fully virtualized cloud-native mobile networks. Rakuten’s approach not only demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of Open RAN architectures but also sets a benchmark for innovation in cost reduction and operational efficiency. Their aggressive expansion and partnerships are pivotal in proving the commercial viability of Open RAN solutions on a global scale.

Nokia Corporation has embraced Open RAN as a core component of its strategic focus, aiming to provide flexible and scalable network solutions that are interoperable with other vendors’ equipment. Nokia’s comprehensive portfolio, which supports Open RAN across various deployment scenarios from rural to urban, showcases its commitment to facilitating a more diverse and competitive supply chain in the telecom sector.

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson has been instrumental in driving forward the Open RAN initiative by participating in various consortiums and trials that enhance the ecosystem’s maturity. Ericsson’s investments in research and development aim to solve the integration challenges associated with Open RAN, thereby promoting its adoption among operators who seek to benefit from reduced vendor lock-in and enhanced network capabilities.

Overall, these companies are not just participants but essential drivers of the Open RAN movement, each contributing unique insights and technologies that support the broader shift towards more open, flexible, and efficient telecommunications networks. Their efforts in 2023 are crucial in setting the stage for future innovations and deployments in the telecom industry.

Top Key Players in the Market

Rakuten Group, Inc.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Nokia Corporation Finland
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
Fujitsu Limited Japan
Mavenir
Parallel Wireless
Radisys
NEC Corporation
1VIAVI Solutions Inc.

https://market.us/report/open-ran-market/

 

A market-cap of underestimated 5% market-share of Rakuten of this USD 79,379 Million is about $ 5 billion.  

The Open RAN market is experiencing rapid growth, valued around $2.8-2.9 billion in 2024, with projections reaching $20.9-$79.4 billion by 2030-2034, driven by 5G, vendor diversification, and cloud integration, showing a strong CAGR around 39%, fueled by demand for flexible, cost-effective networks and supported by government initiatives, though security concerns and standardization challenges exist. North America leads in market share, while Asia-Pacific shows significant growth potential.

https://www.google.com/...xuAeqAcIHAzItMcgHBoAIAA&sclient=gws-wiz
 

Rakuten Securities starts pre-market trading of US stocks! Trading hours up to
12 hours - Expanding trading opportunities to make U.S. stock investment more accessible -

January 19, 2026

https://www.rakuten-sec.co.jp/web/company/newsrelease/fy2026.html
 

Rakuten Bank launches Tohoku Electric Power Company's electricity bill direct debit service

January 19, 2026

Rakuten Bank has started accepting direct debit services for electricity bills from Tohoku Electric Power  (Headquarters: Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture)

Payment by direct debit
Customers with a Rakuten Bank account can pay by direct debit by easy application (online application) or by applying from the account transfer request form.

Customers who have a Rakuten Bank account can use Rakuten Bank's customer preferential program "Happy Program". You can earn up to 3 Rakuten points for each direct debit and Paige payment. In addition, payment by direct debit is a "bonus interest rate" that adds the savings deposit interest rate depending on the usage situation.

In addition, Rakuten Bank is currently holding the "Strongest Bonus Festival Ever" for a limited time until Saturday, February 28, 2026, in which Rakuten Bank will offer the largest amount of benefits ever for opening an account and using the service. If you set up a new account debit other than Rakuten Card and perform a debit, you will receive 500 yen (up to 3 items) per case.

Rakuten Bank has been supporting various account transfers such as utility bills, credit card usage fees, communication charges, and insurance premiums to make it more convenient for customers to use their living accounts. We will continue to leverage the characteristics of digital banks to meet customer needs and expand our account transfer and Paige partners.

https://www.rakuten-bank.co.jp/press/2026/260119.html
 

Rakuten Mobile and Rakuten Bank Strengthen Collaboration in Telecommunications and Fintech to Launch "Rakuten Mobile × Rakuten Bank Bonus Interest Rate" to Achieve the Strongest Deposit*

January 19, 2026

Rakuten Mobile subscribers can expect Rakuten Bank's yen savings deposit interest rate to be up to 0.64% per year (0.509% per year after tax)

Rakuten Mobile Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Rakuten Mobile") and Rakuten Bank Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Rakuten Bank") have further strengthened their collaboration in the fields of telecommunications and fintech, and for Rakuten Mobile subscribers, Rakuten Mobile × Rakuten Bank Rakuten Bank Bonus Interest Rate (hereinafter referred to as the "Service") with a maximum interest rate of 0.64% per annum (0.509% per annum after tax) will be available from February 2026 (planned). Through this service, we will support customers in building their assets as well as using Rakuten Mobile and Rakuten Bank at a more affordable price.

This service expands Rakuten Bank's "Bonus Interest Rate," which is an interest rate preferential program for yen savings deposits, and adds a bonus interest rate to Rakuten Mobile subscribers who have a Rakuten Bank account if they meet the prescribed conditions. Specifically, customers who subscribe to "Rakuten's Strongest U-NEXT" will receive an additional 0.10% per year (0.079% per year after tax), and customers who sign up for "Rakuten's Strongest Plan" will receive an additional 0.02% per year (0.015% per year after tax). As a result, customers who have signed up for "Rakuten's strongest U-NEXT" will be able to achieve the strongest deposit that is more than twice as cheap as the regular interest rate when the bonus interest rate and the preferential interest rate applied to the use of Money Bridge, an account linkage service with Rakuten Securities, are combined for balances within the upper limit.

Rakuten Mobile and Rakuten Bank have already collaborated in the campaign area, and we are running a campaign for customers who have a Rakuten Bank account to return up to 13,000 Rakuten Points by applying for Rakuten Mobile for the first time and transferring from another company with the same phone number (Note 8). In addition, Rakuten Bank is currently holding the "Strongest Bonus Festival Ever" until Saturday, February 28, 2026, in which Rakuten Bank will award the largest amount of benefits equivalent to 25,000 yen for opening an account and using the service (Note 9). Customers who have not yet used Rakuten Mobile and Rakuten Bank's services can start using these campaigns at a better price.

Rakuten Mobile and Rakuten Bank have signed a consignment agreement regarding bank agency business, and from today, January 19 (Monday), Rakuten Mobile will start intermediary services for Rakuten Bank account opening as a bank agency with Rakuten Bank as its affiliated bank. Specifically, we mainly provide individual customers with information on services related to Rakuten Bank accounts and solicit them to open accounts.

https://www.rakuten-bank.co.jp/press/2026/260119-2.html
 

What Gives Rakuten Bank a Competitive Edge Over Its Rivals?

Rakuten Bank's competitive advantages are significantly bolstered by its deep integration with the expansive Rakuten Group ecosystem. This synergy allows for substantial customer acquisition, with over 36% of Rakuten's active users holding a Rakuten Bank account. The strategic use of Rakuten Points, awarded for activities like money transfers and salary deposits, incentivizes cross-service usage and creates high switching costs, thereby fostering strong customer loyalty.

The bank benefits from considerable brand equity in Japan, where the Rakuten brand is widely recognized and trusted across various digital services. This strong brand recognition aids in reducing customer acquisition costs. Rakuten Bank has successfully diversified its offerings beyond its e-commerce origins, expanding into financial services, digital content, and mobile telecommunications, presenting a comprehensive value proposition to its customers. The convenience of a 24/7 accessible, user-friendly mobile app for all banking needs further enhances the customer experience, solidifying its Rakuten Bank market position.

(Read more at: https://matrixbcg.com/blogs/competitors/rakuten-bank)

 

Rakuten Securities launches  “Easy Credit” for margin trading that can be started even if you have no experience in stock investment - Realize flexible transactions such as selling (short selling) while reducing risk within the scope of your own funds

January 19, 2026

https://www.rakuten-sec.co.jp/web/company/newsrelease/fy2026.html
 

Rakuten Securities starts pre-market trading of US stocks! Trading hours up to
12 hours - Expanding trading opportunities to make U.S. stock investment more accessible

January 19, 2025

https://www.rakuten-sec.co.jp/web/company/newsrelease/fy2026.html
 

It's January 2026 in Japan. With 10+ million subscribers, Rakuten Mobile is now a fully established carrier. These updates shape what to expect.

Rakuten Mobile surpassed 10 million subscribers on December 25, 2025, reaching a major milestone that confirms network stability and mainstream adoption. Rakuten Group announcement (January 5, 2026)

The network now has over 100,000 4G/5G base stations nationwide, with 5G Sub6 coverage in Kanto expanded 60% since January 2024. Mobile World Live / Rakuten Mobile PR (2024-2025)

Family Program discounts now pull the effective charge down to ¥968 for up to 3GB and ¥3,168 for unlimited data when eligible lines are grouped. Rakuten Mobile official site

How the Rakuten SAIKYO Plan bills in late 2026

Pricing still auto-adjusts every month based on usage. Expect these tiers and perks when you join now.

0–3GB: ¥1,078 per month (tax included) with unlimited domestic voice/SMS through Rakuten Link; the Family Program lowers this to ¥968. Rakuten Mobile official site

3–20GB: ¥2,178 per month with 2GB of international roaming across 90+ countries plus Rakuten Link voice. Rakuten Mobile official site

20GB+: ¥3,278 per month for unlimited domestic data while the ongoing 700 MHz rollout keeps trains, malls, and low-signal homes covered. Rakuten Group press release (June 27, 2024)

https://www.japanmobileguide.com/...%2520for,June%252027%2C%25202024)