Sony revealed plans to forge a strategic collaboration with Bandai Namco in a recent announcement, acquiring 16 million shares in the company for approximately ¥68 billion ($465 million). This investment grants Sony a 2.5% ownership stake in the Japanese entertainment giant.

Nobuhiko Momoi, Bandai Namco Holdings’ Executive Vice President, commented:

Our IP-driven strategy focuses on amplifying the reach of intellectual properties through tailored global engagement. Partnering with Sony—a leader in diverse entertainment technologies—opens unprecedented opportunities to craft innovative experiences. Together, we’ll deepen fan connections worldwide and advance our vision of delivering universal enjoyment.

Toshimoto Mitomo, Sony’s Chief Strategy Officer, echoed this sentiment:

This alliance merges Bandai Namco’s fan-centric IP expertise with Sony’s creative and technological resources. We’ll collaborate to develop immersive content that transcends traditional boundaries, aligning with our mission to redefine entertainment through emotionally resonant experiences under the “Creative Entertainment Vision” framework.

While the collaboration initially prioritizes anime and multimedia projects leveraging Bandai Namco’s franchises, analysts speculate about potential expansions into gaming and music. However, industry experts caution that the limited equity stake makes platform exclusivity for Bandai Namco games—particularly on PlayStation—unlikely.

Sony’s recent investments in Japanese media include a 10% stake in Kadokawa Corporation (FromSoftware’s parent company) in late 2024. Notably, Tencent later increased its Kadokawa shares to nearly 8%, narrowing Sony’s lead as the top shareholder.