Dai-ichi Life

Dai-ichi Life, a prominent Japanese life insurance company, has established itself as an active strategic investor in the global venture capital landscape. Beyond its core insurance and pension services, the company leverages its substantial financial resources to back innovative startups and technologies. Its investment strategy is primarily executed through its dedicated corporate venture capital (CVC) arm, DL Capital, established in 2021, alongside direct strategic investments from its balance sheet.

DL Capital was launched with a fund size of JPY 10 billion (approximately $67 million USD, based on a JPY 150/USD exchange rate). This fund is mandated to invest in approximately 20 to 30 companies over a five-year period, focusing on sectors that align with Dai-ichi Life's long-term strategic interests and societal impact goals. Key investment areas include healthcare, fintech, insurtech, and other growth-stage companies that address social challenges. The typical first cheque from DL Capital ranges from approximately $1 million to $5 million, reflecting their commitment to supporting early to growth-stage ventures.

Beyond DL Capital, Dai-ichi Life also engages in larger direct strategic investments, often participating in significant funding rounds for more mature companies or collaborating with other corporate venture arms. With total assets exceeding JPY 60 trillion (over $400 billion USD), the company's investment activities are part of a broader strategy to diversify its portfolio, gain insights into emerging technologies, and foster innovation that can potentially enhance its core business offerings. Their approach emphasizes long-term partnerships and contributions to societal well-being, making them a patient and strategic capital provider in the venture ecosystem.