Sony Group and Bandai Namco Holdings are investing ¥10 billion ($69 million) in fan community platform Gaudiy, establishing a strategic partnership that aims to expand Japanese anime and manga content globally.
The Tokyo-based venture, which acquired English-language anime database MyAnimeList in March, will combine its technology with Sony’s Crunchyroll streaming service and Bandai Namco’s product offerings to create what the companies call “a new ecosystem in the entertainment industry.”
Founded in 2018, Gaudiy develops blockchain and AI-powered fan engagement platforms. The investment follows its acquisition of MyAnimeList, which claims 19.5 million registered users, 99% from outside Japan.
The partnership focuses on five key areas including global expansion of Japanese intellectual property, creator development, data utilization, blockchain implementation, and generative AI applications. Sony plans to incorporate its “Soneium” blockchain while Bandai Namco will extend its experimentation with AI technology already used in its Gunpla model communities.
For Bandai Namco, this represents the first major initiative from its newly created CW360 department, designed to enhance global fan engagement as part of the company’s mid-term strategy.
Gaudiy previously raised ¥3.4 billion in 2022 from investors including Sony Music, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Sanrio, and others. The company plans additional fundraising within the year to support further acquisitions, research development, and international expansion.
