SBI Digital Hub Inc. has announced that it will merge with SBI e-Sports Inc. effective Thursday, August 1, 2024. The core businesses—including the professional esports team “SBI e-Sports” and the official VTuber “Shunsui Rei”—will continue operations following the merger.

SBI Digital Hub Acquires and Absorbs SBI e-Sports

SBI e-Sports Inc. was founded in June 2020 as the SBI Group’s first step into the esports industry.
The organization manages the professional esports team “SBI e-Sports,” home to players such as Hibiki from Street Fighter (@HibikiTheBeast) and cheeky from Apex Legends (@tttcheekyttt). In September 2021, they also debuted their official VTuber “Shunsui Rei” (@ShunsuiRei_SBI), expanding their activities even further.

Now, SBI Digital Hub Inc.—a company offering consulting services and developing new Web3-related businesses—has announced the acquisition of SBI e-Sports Inc. As both companies belong to the SBI Group, major structural changes are unlikely, but starting Thursday, August 1, 2024, SBI e-Sports will be integrated into SBI Digital Hub’s Digital Entertainment Division.

SBI e-Sports Inc. currently operates services such as “SBI e-Sports NET / SBI e-Sports hikari,” a premium high-speed internet service supported by the professional team as service monitors. With SBI Digital Hub’s focus on Web3, DX, and blockchain technologies, the merger is expected to create strong synergy. Many are anticipating new business initiatives that leverage the visibility and influence of the team and its players.

Comment from SBI Digital Hub Inc.

We will continue to work toward the social implementation and mass adoption of Web3, as well as contribute to the healthy growth of the esports industry and the creation of new content-driven businesses. We aim to further expand our operations moving forward.

SBI e-Sports Official Website