Nudge Raises JPY 1.48bn Through Asset Finance and Venture Debt to Accelerate Credit Card Expansion
Nudge, a Tokyo-based FinTech startup operating the next-generation credit card service "Nudge," has raised 1.48 billion yen in a new funding round. This latest injection brings the company’s cumulative capital raised to approximately 6.5 billion yen.
The financing structure stands out for its strategic blend of non-dilutive capital and founder commitment. The round comprises asset finance orchestrated by Morgan Stanley, venture debt provided by Resona Bank, and equity investments from both new and existing shareholders. Notably, founder and CEO Takashi Okita personally made an additional equity contribution during this round , signaling strong executive commitment to the firm’s long-term valuation.
According to the company, the sourcing of asset and debt financing aims to optimize capital efficiency while minimizing equity dilution for existing shareholders. For FinTech infrastructure startups, securing flexible and robust liquidity is a critical lifeline to support rapidly growing transaction volumes.
Nudge’s proprietary credit card model—which integrates social contribution and "oshi-katsu" (fan support activities) directly into everyday transactions—has driven a sharp increase in young cardholders and a steady upward trajectory in transaction volume.
The company disclosed that the newly acquired funds will be allocated toward meeting working capital demands driven by the expanding transaction volumes, upgrading service features via system development, and funding strategic marketing initiatives. This strengthened financial foundation is intended to position Nudge favorably for a larger equity financing round in the future.
Norbert Gehrke
