Hideaki Umetsu participated as a moderator in the panel below.
Panel: Deal dynamics: Best practices in post-merger integration 

Post-merger integration poses the most significant obstacle to dealmakers completing cross-border transactions. Japanese corporates are learning quickly the nuances of this critical step in the M&A process, however, many continue to stumble. This panel will focus on case studies and best practices for dealmakers who are committed to crossing borders to expand their reach and access new opportunities in foreign markets.
• What is the best approach when dealing with sensitives involving unique corporate and national cultures?
• How can the speed of the integration process impact the overall outcome of the transaction?
• Which internal processes and departments often pose the greatest challenge and most time to integrate? What can be done to expedite these combinations without compromising the integrity of the integration?

<Speakers>
Tomotaka Torin, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Development Department Manager, Rakuten Inc.
Shogo Ikeuchi, Board Director, Senior Corporate Executive Officer, Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.
Takayuki Morita, Executive Vice President and Chief Global Officer, NEC Corporation