Hiroshi Mikitani's Biography

Hiroshi Mikitani, known as 'Mickey,' is a prominent Japanese entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Rakuten Group, one of the world's leading e-commerce and online services companies. Born on March 11, 1965, Mikitani has become a symbol of Japan's digital revolution, transforming how businesses and consumers interact online. With a Harvard Business School degree and an early career in banking, he saw the potential of the internet in the late 1990s and launched Rakuten Ichiba, now Japan’s largest online marketplace. Under his leadership, Rakuten expanded globally, acquiring companies like Viber and investing in sectors such as fintech, mobile, and sports, including ownership of the Vissel Kobe soccer club. His estimated net worth in 2024 is approximately $5.8 billion, reflecting both Rakuten's growth and his numerous other ventures. Mikitani is recognized for his forward-thinking approach, commitment to digital innovation, and efforts to make English the working language at Rakuten, setting a new standard for Japanese corporations. Despite facing challenges and controversies, he remains a leading figure in global business, advocating for risk-taking, hard work, and embracing change. His impact extends beyond commerce, influencing technology trends and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.