Headline Asia is a Tokyo- and Taipei-based early-stage venture capital firm and the Asia-Pacific arm of the global VC network Headline, which manages over $4 billion in assets across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. Founded in 2008, Headline Asia focuses on investing in technology startups that are driving digital transformation and cross-border innovation across Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and selectively in South Korea. The firm is known for its hands-on approach and deep regional expertise, supporting founders from seed to Series A stages.
Headline Asia targets early-stage investments in sectors such as e-commerce, logistics, fintech, intellectual property (IP), and artificial intelligence (AI).
The firm seeks out startups that are building scalable solutions with the potential for cross-border expansion, particularly those that can bridge markets within Asia and beyond.
Headline Asia typically invests in companies that are leveraging technology to address inefficiencies and create new market opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region.
In May 2025, Headline Asia announced the final close of its fifth and largest fund to date, securing $145 million in commitments. Despite a challenging fundraising environment marked by high interest rates and cautious investor sentiment, the firm successfully attracted backing from a mix of public and private entities, including Japan Investment Corporation (JIC), the National Development Fund of Taiwan (NDF), Korea Venture Investment Corporation (KVIC), and SME Support Japan. Fund V is earmarked for early-stage investments, with check sizes ranging from $1 million to $5 million, focusing on startups in Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and selectively in South Korea.
The fund aims to support companies that are driving digital transformation and have the potential for cross-border operations.
Leadership
Headline Asia is led by co-founder and partner Akio Tanaka, who brings extensive experience in venture capital and a deep understanding of the Asian startup ecosystem. Under his leadership, the firm has built a strong presence in the region, supporting a diverse portfolio of startups across various sectors.
Headline Asia is part of the broader Headline global network, which has regional offices in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, managing approximately $4 billion in assets.
The Asia team comprises 10 investment professionals based in Tokyo, Taipei, and Singapore, bringing deep local insights and a strong track record of supporting founders. The firm emphasizes a collaborative approach, leveraging its global network to help portfolio companies scale and navigate cross-border challenges.
Notable Investments
Headline Asia's portfolio includes notable investments such as Newmo, a Japanese taxi and ride-sharing startup; Jenfi, a Singapore-based company providing revenue-based financing for digital businesses in Southeast Asia; and Pi-xcels, a Tokyo- and Singapore-based startup offering NFC-enabled technology for digital receipts.
These investments reflect the firm's focus on supporting innovative startups that are driving digital transformation and have the potential for cross-border expansion.
