Smartplus Launches Securities Trading Platform 'DWM' for GAIA Co., Ltd.

Smartplus, Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative: Noriko Kobayashi; hereinafter 'the Company'), a member of the Finatext Group that realizes embedded finance through the provision of next-generation financial infrastructure, announced that it has begun providing its securities trading platform, 'Digital Wealth Manager' (hereinafter 'DWM'), to GAIA Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; President: Hirotaka Nakagiri; hereinafter 'GAIA'), an IFA firm.

Background and Objectives: Since its founding in 2006, GAIA has been an IFA firm that provides asset management advice and execution support from a neutral standpoint, not belonging to any specific financial institution, under the vision of 'realizing people's dreams around the world through financial planning.' Based on the concept of 'Two-Generation Private FP,' they provide one-stop services including securities, insurance, mortgages, and inheritance consulting. With this foundation, GAIA considered developing its own branded securities trading platform to further enhance the value provided to its customers.

Features of DWM and Reasons for Adoption: DWM has the following features: 1. Rapid construction of a proprietary branded securities platform: Intermediaries can easily and quickly build and provide their own branded securities services, with service commencement possible in as little as two weeks. 2. Selection and configuration of products: Financial products can be selected and set according to the operator's needs and policies. 3. Support for NISA: It meets the needs for long-term, installment, and diversified investment. GAIA decided to adopt DWM after comprehensively considering these features.

Future Developments: The Company will continue to enhance DWM's functions to become the preferred securities trading platform for IFA operators aiming to shift from a commission-based model to a fee-based model that aligns interests with customers. Furthermore, the Company aims to further popularize DWM by strengthening partner strategies for insurance agencies and professionals.