I've talked about our corporate direction of "getting closer to people," including getting closer to the users that experience kando, as well as connecting to users through DTC (Direct to Consumer) services. Today, I'd like to share my recent opportunities to meet with Sony Group members in Osaka, Japan and Shenzhen, China who directly engage with customers and have a "Real" or "Live" interaction with them. In other words, those who are engaged in "Real DTC."

■ MDRT Sony Chapter

Have you heard of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT)? MDRT is a global association comprised of life insurance and financial services professionals from around the world. Its members must demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct, outstanding client service, and fulfill certain performance criteria to join. On October 4, I spoke at an MDRT Sony Chapter Autumn Meeting held in Osaka, organized by Sony Life Insurance's "Lifeplanners" (life insurance specialists) who are MDRT members. Currently MDRT Sony Chapter has 801 members, a number which puts it among the top class of all Japanese insurance companies.

Speaking at the MDRT Sony Chapter

In my speech, I spoke about Sony Group's corporate direction, and how Lifeplanners were the origin of Sony's DTC business, reiterating Sony Life Insurance's importance to Sony Group, and shared my expectations for our Lifeplanners. In particular, in terms of expectations I asked them to effectively utilize AI and other technologies from within and outside of Sony Group to get even closer to our customers and deliver value as their "partners" in life. I also asked for their continued contribution in reinforcing Sony's positive brand image of safety and reliability, which Sony Life Insurance helped to cultivate.

This year marks the 33rd anniversary since the establishment of MDRT Sony Chapter, and I was deeply impressed by how these distinguished Lifeplanners shared their devotion towards better client service, and humbly learning from others both within and outside Sony. Pictures of Morita-san were displayed in the conference hall, and I was once again reminded of his strong presence and ability to foresee the entry into the financial services business, which would bear fruit in 20 years' time.

In front of a panel of Morita-san

■ Visit to Sony Store in Shenzhen

Following my trip to Osaka, I had an opportunity to visit the Sony Store in Shenzhen, China. The shopping mall it occupies is brand new with a 40% occupancy rate at the moment, but there are plans to connect the mall to neighboring apartments, office buildings, parks, and hotels. With projected future demand, I sensed great potential in choosing the Shenzhen market and this particular location to set up our store.

With Sony Store employees

Upon hearing that I would be visiting this Sony Store, several of our passionate Sony fans waited outside since the morning and asked me to take pictures with them and autograph their products.

With Sony fans

Moving forward, I would like us to further leverage such powerful appeal of our products and brand that captivates Sony fans, and increase our customer touchpoints by reinforcing "Real DTC" in China, thus getting closer to users.

This was my second time in Shenzhen and six years since my last visit, and I was amazed by the changes to this vigorous and bustling city. I have high hopes for our potential in China not only for the Sony Store, but for all of our Sony Group efforts, which I would like to share on another occasion.