Daniel J. Edelman Inc. (DJE), the parent company of global communications firm Edelman, has agreed to acquire a 21% equity stake in Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed PRAP Japan. The deal forms the foundation of a new strategic alliance designed to support cross-border corporate communications.Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the two agencies will pool resources to assist international brands operating within Japan, while simultaneously helping Japanese multinationals expand their footprint across global markets. The partnership will combine PRAP’s deep domestic market presence with Edelman’s international network and integrated agency capabilities.Transaction Details and Market ImpactDJE executed a formal purchase agreement with an existing PRAP shareholder to secure the 21% holding. Subject to standard closing conditions, the transaction is slated to finalize before the end of 2026.Beyond core corporate communications, the alliance targets joint innovation in digital strategy, artificial intelligence, and data-backed communications services. Both firms will actively pursue co-pitched business opportunities within Japan and internationally."Japan is the world's fourth-largest economy and home to some of the most important companies in the world," said Richard Edelman, CEO of Edelman. "PRAP brings extraordinary knowledge of Japan; Edelman brings the global reach to help Japanese companies succeed around the world.""Through our discussions with Edelman's management, I felt a strong affinity between PRAP's value of 'integrity' and Edelman's emphasis on 'trust,' as well as our shared commitment to clients and people," noted Isao Suzuki, President and CEO of PRAP Japan, emphasizing that the partnership preserves PRAP's independent corporate identity.Strategic Positioning in Asia-PacificEstablished in 1970, PRAP operates across Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. According to PRovoke Media’s 2026 Global Top 300 PR Agency Ranking, the agency generated approximately $47.5 million in fee income, placing 82nd worldwide. The alliance is not PRAP's first international venture; the firm previously entered a strategic alliance with Ogilvy in 2007 when the WPP network acquired a stake in the business.For Edelman, the acquisition reinforces its existing footprint in Japan, which serves as the hub for its Asia-Pacific public affairs practice and its specialized "Brand Japan" client portfolio.

DJE Holdings has launched RUTH, a new independent global communications agency.RUTH is named after Ruth Edelman, the cherished wife and business partner of DJE founder Daniel J. Edelman. The agency operates alongside established giants Edelman and Zeno, but with a distinct focus on providing fresh, innovative solutions to clients."The need for a third agency has been on our radar for a while," says DJE Holdings Chairman Richard Edelman. RUTH caters to clients seeking independent yet DJE family-connected expertise. It also serves as a tribute to Richard's mother, "an integral part of DJE's success story."Rana Komar, a DJE alumna with over 20 years of experience, takes the helm as RUTH's president. Komar emphasizes her connection to Ruth Edelman's legacy and vows to uphold her values of courage, hard work, and optimism.Ren??e Edelman joins as RUTH's Honorary Chairwoman, while remaining Senior Vice President at Edelman. Her involvement ensures the agency upholds her mother's core values, particularly mental health advocacy.RUTH's launch not only honours Ruth Edelman's legacy, but also positions DJE Holdings for continued innovation and prominence in the global communications landscape.