Morita Associates obtains information on a global basis and analyzes gold and precious metal markets from a global perspective. Regarding gold, we maintain a close relationship with the World Gold Council, and regarding platinum, with the World Platinum Investment Council, to obtain the most reliable information worldwide. In addition, through a network of domestic and international research firms, industry organizations, and exchanges, we promptly acquire information from around the world and strive to provide investors with gold and precious metal analyses backed by abundant data. Strategic assessment and advisory services, as well as creditworthiness evaluation, are also our strong suits. I have worked for about 20 years as an analyst and management member at a U.S.-based rating agency, earning the industry’s title of “Mr. Rating.” Creditworthiness and financial strength are one of the keys to a company's global competitiveness. After the Lehman Brothers crisis, the operations of foreign rating agencies underwent dramatic changes, making it necessary for issuers to adopt entirely different rating strategies. Advanced rating management requires thorough familiarity with the principles and operations of rating agencies. Morita Associates helps Japanese companies advance globally through the development and advisory of rating strategies with a long-term perspective. From a global viewpoint, there is an overwhelming shortage of credit information on Japanese companies, especially in English. For example, the number of ratings assigned to Japanese companies by foreign rating agencies—used frequently by overseas companies and investors—is less than 100. In mergers, acquisitions, business partnerships, tenders, and financial transactions involving overseas entities, financial strength and credit evaluation are critical decision-making information. Due to information gaps, targets may be left out, projects may not proceed, or competitiveness may be undermined, potentially affecting Japanese companies’ management and future prospects. Morita Associates aims to provide bilingual (Japanese and English) creditworthiness information and industry analysis of Japanese companies from the perspective of experienced global analysts, not in the form of ratings. Amid accelerating globalization, we would be honored to contribute even a little to strengthening the competitiveness of Japanese investors and Japanese companies.