The anime industry is experiencing an explosive surge, with experts predicting it to reach a whopping $60 billion by 2030. In this rapidly growing market, global investment bank Jefferies has identified three companies primed to reap significant rewards: Netflix, Sony Group, and Bandai Namco.
Jefferies’ analysts point to the global entertainment industry’s increasing focus on anime as a core part of their growth strategies. The driving force behind this trend is the booming overseas market, which has mirrored the size of the Japanese market since the pandemic’s onset. Analysts believe that anime has transitioned from niche to mainstream in the US and Europe, with enormous potential for continued expansion. This growth is expected to be fueled by increased anime distribution on streaming platforms, along with a surge in licensing revenues from merchandise and advertising.
The impact of Japanese anime IP extends far beyond entertainment, with the top six franchises generating a staggering $311 billion in combined revenue, eclipsing even the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s $30 billion. This indicates the immense global appeal and potential for further monetization of anime.
Netflix
, a leader in content streaming, has been actively licensing and funding several anime series, and is expected to continue its anime strategy.Sony Group
, a powerhouse in anime production and streaming, is strategically positioned to benefit from the industry’s growth.Bandai Namco
, renowned for leveraging anime IP across various products and digital games, is experiencing a surge in popularity through expanded overseas sales. Their popular games include the Shonen Jump series and the Dragon Ball franchise.The anime industry’s growth is not limited to entertainment giants. Companies like BloomZ Inc. are capitalizing on this trend through strategic acquisitions and project rights, expanding their revenue streams. The music industry is also witnessing a significant impact, with Spotify reporting a remarkable 395% surge in anime music streams since 2021.
While the anime industry flourishes, concerns remain regarding copyright infringement. A Japanese YouTuber recently faced a two-year prison sentence for monetizing gameplay videos without publisher permission, highlighting the need for stricter regulations in this rapidly evolving landscape.
The anime industry’s meteoric rise is evident, with major players like Netflix, Sony Group, and Bandai Namco poised to benefit significantly from this global phenomenon. As the industry continues its expansion, it will be interesting to see how the players navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
