Nintendo, a renowned name in the gaming industry, has captivated audiences worldwide with its innovative consoles and beloved franchises. Understanding who owns Nintendo provides insight into the company’s structure and the key players behind its success.
History of Nintendo
Nintendo has a long and fascinating history, evolving from a small playing card company to a global gaming giant.
The Early Years: A Playing Card Company (1889–1950s)
Nintendo was founded on September 23, 1889, by Fusajiro Yamauchi in Kyoto, Japan. The company originally produced handmade Hanafuda playing cards, which were popular for gambling and recreational use. In the early 1900s, Nintendo became Japan’s leading playing card manufacturer.
During the 1950s, the company partnered with Disney to produce character-themed playing cards, boosting sales. This was Nintendo’s first venture into family entertainment, setting the stage for future innovations.
Diversification and Struggles (1960s–1970s)
Under the leadership of Hiroshi Yamauchi, Nintendo began exploring different business opportunities. It experimented with:
- Love hotels
- A taxi service
- Instant rice products
However, none of these ventures were successful. Recognizing the potential of electronic entertainment, Nintendo shifted its focus to toy and arcade game development. In 1966, it introduced the Ultra Hand, a mechanical toy that became a commercial success.
By the early 1970s, Nintendo entered the arcade game industry, producing EVR Race and Radar Scope. However, the real breakthrough came with Donkey Kong (1981), created by Shigeru Miyamoto. It introduced the world to Mario, setting the stage for Nintendo’s dominance in the gaming industry.
The Rise of Home Consoles (1980s–1990s)
Nintendo revolutionized gaming in the 1980s with the launch of:
- Game & Watch (1980) – A series of handheld electronic games.
- Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1983/1985) – Home console that popularized video gaming worldwide.
- Game Boy (1989) – A portable gaming console that introduced Tetris and Pokémon to millions.
During this era, Nintendo established itself as a leader in gaming with franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
In the 1990s, Nintendo continued its success with:
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) (1990/1991) – Improved graphics and iconic games like Super Mario World.
- Nintendo 64 (1996) – Introduced 3D gaming with titles like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
Facing Competition and New Innovations (2000s–2010s)
As gaming technology advanced, Nintendo faced intense competition from Sony (PlayStation) and Microsoft (Xbox). Despite this, it remained a major player with:
- GameCube (2001) – A compact console competing with PlayStation 2 and Xbox.
- Nintendo DS (2004) – A dual-screen handheld console that became one of the best-selling gaming devices ever.
- Wii (2006) – A motion-controlled gaming console that reached a broad audience, selling over 100 million units.
The Modern Era: Nintendo Switch and Beyond (2017–Present)
In 2017, Nintendo launched the Nintendo Switch, a hybrid console that could be used as both a home and portable system. The console became a massive success, selling over 139 million units by 2024.
Nintendo continues to innovate, expanding its franchises with new Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon titles. The company is also investing in theme parks, mobile gaming, and digital services like Nintendo Switch Online.
Who Owns Nintendo?
Nintendo is a publicly traded company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE: 7974). It does not have a single majority owner. Instead, ownership is divided among several institutional investors and financial organizations.
The largest shareholder is The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account), which holds approximately 16.48% of the company’s shares. Other major investors include international banks and trust companies.
Nintendo Top Shareholders
Nintendo’s ownership is distributed among multiple institutional investors. Below are the largest shareholders:
| Shareholder | Ownership Percentage | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account) | 16.48% | Largest shareholder, manages assets for various investors |
| JP Morgan Chase Bank | 8.80% | Investment trust account for institutional clients |
| Custody Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account) | 5.76% | Financial trustee managing shares for various investors |
| BlackRock, Inc. | 6.99% | Global asset management firm, passive investor |
| Public Investment Fund (PIF) | 4.68% | Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, strategic investor |
| The Bank of Kyoto, Ltd. | 4.19% | Regional bank supporting Nintendo, long-standing investor |
| Nomura Asset Management Co., Ltd. | 4.62% | Investment management firm representing institutional clients |
| The Nomura Trust and Banking Co., Ltd. (MUFG Retirement Benefit Trust Account) | ~3-4% | Manages Nintendo shares for pension and retirement funds |
| Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management Co., Ltd. | 3.83% | Asset management firm, long-term institutional investor |
| The Vanguard Group, Inc. | 3.50% | Global investment firm, passive index fund investor |
| Nikko Asset Management Co., Ltd. | 2.45% | Tokyo-based investment firm, institutional investor |
| Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation | 2.26% | Part of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, investment trustee |
| Daiwa Asset Management Co., Ltd. | 2.05% | Securities investment firm with institutional clients |
| Norges Bank Investment Management | 1.80% | Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, strategic long-term investor |
| GIC Private Limited | 1.58% | Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, strategic investor |
The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account) – 16.48%
The Master Trust Bank of Japan is the largest shareholder of Nintendo. It manages assets on behalf of various clients, including pension funds and investment groups. Despite holding 16.48% of shares, the bank does not actively control Nintendo’s operations. Instead, it acts as a custodian for investors who own Nintendo stock through trust accounts.
JP Morgan Chase Bank – 8.80%
JP Morgan Chase is one of the largest financial institutions in the world. The 8.80% stake in Nintendo is managed through an investment trust account. This means that various institutional investors and clients of JP Morgan hold shares in Nintendo under this fund. The bank itself does not make decisions for Nintendo but represents the interests of its clients.
BlackRock, Inc. – 6.99%
BlackRock, Inc., a leading global asset management firm, holds approximately 6.99% of Nintendo’s shares. This stake reflects BlackRock’s investment in the gaming industry and its confidence in Nintendo’s market performance. As a passive investor, BlackRock does not participate directly in the company’s strategic decisions.
Custody Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account) – 5.76%
Another major institutional investor, Custody Bank of Japan, owns 5.76% of Nintendo’s stock. Like The Master Trust Bank, it serves as a financial trustee for investment funds and individual clients. Its stake represents pooled investments rather than direct ownership influence over the company’s strategic decisions.
Public Investment Fund (PIF) – 4.68%
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund owns around 4.68% of Nintendo. The PIF has been increasing its investments in the gaming sector, viewing it as a strategic area for growth. This investment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy.
Nomura Asset Management Co., Ltd. – 4.62%
Nomura Asset Management, a subsidiary of Nomura Holdings, holds about 4.62% of Nintendo’s shares. Specializing in investment management, Nomura’s stake represents its clients’ interests in the gaming industry.
The Nomura Trust and Banking Co., Ltd. (MUFG Bank, Ltd. Retirement Benefit Trust Account) – Approx. 3–4%
Nomura Trust and Banking, a subsidiary of Japan’s largest financial group (MUFG), holds a stake in Nintendo through a retirement benefit trust. This means that pension funds and employee benefit programs invest in Nintendo stock, ensuring long-term financial backing for the company.
The Bank of Kyoto, Ltd. – 4.19%
The Bank of Kyoto is a regional bank based in Kyoto, where Nintendo’s headquarters is located. With 4.19% ownership, it is one of the few shareholders with a long-standing relationship with Nintendo. This stake is smaller compared to trust banks but signifies strong local financial support.
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management Co., Ltd. – 3.83%
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management owns approximately 3.83% of Nintendo. As part of the Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, this asset management firm invests in companies with strong growth potential, including Nintendo.
The Vanguard Group, Inc. – 3.50%
The Vanguard Group, an American investment management company, holds around 3.50% of Nintendo’s shares. Known for its index funds and ETFs, Vanguard’s stake indicates broad investor interest in Nintendo.
Nikko Asset Management Co., Ltd. – 2.45%
Nikko Asset Management, a Tokyo-based investment firm, owns about 2.45% of Nintendo. The company’s investment reflects its strategy to include established entertainment companies in its portfolio.
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation – 2.26%
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation holds approximately 2.26% of Nintendo’s shares. As part of the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, this institution manages assets for various clients, including investments in Nintendo.
Daiwa Asset Management Co., Ltd. – 2.05%
Daiwa Asset Management owns around 2.05% of Nintendo. Affiliated with Daiwa Securities Group, this firm’s stake represents its clients’ investments in the gaming sector.
Norges Bank Investment Management – 1.80%
Norges Bank Investment Management, which manages Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, holds about 1.80% of Nintendo’s shares. This investment aligns with the fund’s strategy to invest in globally recognized companies.
GIC Private Limited – 1.58%
GIC Private Limited, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, owns approximately 1.58% of Nintendo. GIC’s investment reflects its confidence in Nintendo’s long-term growth prospects in the entertainment industry.
Who Controls Nintendo?
While Nintendo has multiple institutional shareholders, the company’s strategic decisions are made by its executive leadership and board of directors. These individuals are responsible for overseeing Nintendo’s business operations, product development, and global expansion.
Nintendo’s Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is responsible for setting corporate policies, approving major investments, and ensuring the company’s financial health. The board consists of both internal and external members to maintain a balance of corporate governance and industry expertise.
Shuntaro Furukawa – President and Representative Director
Shuntaro Furukawa has been Nintendo’s president since 2018. He oversees the company’s overall strategy, product innovation, and business operations. Furukawa has a background in marketing and corporate planning and has been with Nintendo since 1994. Under his leadership, Nintendo has expanded its digital services and continued the success of the Nintendo Switch.
Shigeru Miyamoto – Representative Director and Fellow
Shigeru Miyamoto is one of Nintendo’s most influential figures. He is the creator of Mario, Zelda, and Donkey Kong, among other franchises. Although he no longer oversees day-to-day game development, he serves as Representative Director and Fellow, focusing on brand management and creative direction. He ensures that Nintendo’s core franchises maintain their high quality and appeal to a global audience.
Ko Shiota – Senior Executive Officer and Director
Ko Shiota leads Nintendo’s hardware division, playing a key role in the development of consoles like the Nintendo Switch. His expertise in technology and system architecture is crucial for Nintendo’s future innovations in gaming hardware.
Satoru Shibata – Director and Senior Executive Officer
Satoru Shibata is responsible for global marketing and sales strategies. He has held leadership positions in Nintendo’s European and Asian operations, helping expand the company’s presence in international markets.
Other Key Directors and Officers
Nintendo’s board also includes external directors and senior executives who provide financial oversight, legal compliance, and business development expertise. These individuals ensure that Nintendo remains competitive and financially stable in the gaming industry.
Who Makes Key Decisions at Nintendo?
The president and board of directors make the most critical decisions, including:
- New console development (e.g., future versions of the Nintendo Switch)
- Game release schedules and software investments
- Partnerships and acquisitions (e.g., collaborations with external game developers)
- Expansion into new markets (e.g., mobile gaming and theme parks)
- Stockholder relations and financial planning
While institutional shareholders own significant stakes in the company, they do not directly influence day-to-day operations. Instead, Nintendo’s leadership team has full control over its business strategy.
Nintendo’s Independence in Decision-Making
Despite having large financial institutions as shareholders, Nintendo remains independent in its decision-making. Unlike some public companies where major shareholders have significant voting power, Nintendo’s leadership retains control over product development, brand direction, and long-term vision.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of Nintendo
As of 2024, Nintendo reported revenues of approximately $11.50 billion. The company’s net worth (or market capitalization), as of April 2025, stands at about $80.86 billion. These figures underscore Nintendo’s robust financial health and influential gaming industry position.
Here’s an overview of Nintendo revenue from 2015-2024:
| Fiscal Year | Revenue (in billions of USD) | YoY Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $4.41 | -3.99% |
| 2016 | $3.53 | -19.91% |
| 2017 | $9.20 | 160.38% |
| 2018 | $10.84 | 17.75% |
| 2019 | $11.25 | 3.79% |
| 2020 | $16.02 | 42.41% |
| 2021 | $14.87 | -7.18% |
| 2022 | $12.62 | -15.14% |
| 2023 | $11.97 | -5.14% |
| 2024 | $11.50 | -3.93% |
Nintendo’s Market Share and Competitors
Nintendo holds a significant position in the global gaming industry, particularly in the console market. As of 2023, Nintendo’s market share was approximately 27.7%, positioning it as a key player alongside its main competitors, Sony and Microsoft.
Below is a list of the top competitors of Nintendo:
Sony PlayStation
Sony’s PlayStation series leads the console market with a 45% share as of 2023. The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has been particularly successful, contributing significantly to Sony’s dominance.
In the July-September quarter of 2024, Sony sold 3.8 million PS5 units, bolstering its gaming division’s profits. Sony’s strong lineup of exclusive titles and robust online services has solidified its market position.
Microsoft Xbox
Microsoft’s Xbox consoles, including the Series X and Series S, hold a 27.3% market share as of 2023, closely trailing Nintendo. Despite substantial investments in game studio acquisitions and services like Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft faces challenges in surpassing its competitors.
By June 2024, the combined sales of Xbox Series X and Series S reached 28.3 million units worldwide. Microsoft continues to focus on expanding its game library and enhancing user experience to increase its market presence.
Tencent
Tencent is a major player in the global gaming industry, particularly in the mobile gaming sector. In the first half of 2024, Tencent led mobile game publishers with revenues totaling $3.2 billion, driven by popular titles like Honor of Kings and PUBG Mobile.
Tencent’s influence extends beyond mobile gaming, with investments in various game developers and a growing presence in the global market.
Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard has experienced significant growth over the past decade. By 2024, the company achieved a market share of 23% and a market value of $65 billion. This growth is attributed to successful franchises such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush, which have maintained strong player engagement and revenue streams.
Brands Owned by Nintendo
Nintendo is a powerhouse in the gaming world, not only for its consoles but also for the impressive range of brands and franchises it owns. These brands contribute to Nintendo’s dominant position in the industry, appealing to a wide audience through unique games, characters, and worlds.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is one of Nintendo’s most successful brands in recent years, redefining the gaming landscape since its launch in 2017. The console is unique because it can be used both as a home console connected to the TV and as a handheld device. This hybrid nature has made the Switch extremely versatile and popular across various gaming demographics.
The Nintendo Switch has become one of the best-selling consoles in history, with over 125 million units sold by 2024. It has played a major role in boosting Nintendo’s financial success, surpassing sales of the Wii U and outpacing other consoles, including Sony’s PlayStation 4 in certain markets.
Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the highly anticipated successor to the original Nintendo Switch and is expected to build on the success of its predecessor. While official details are still limited, there have been significant rumors and speculation regarding its features, release date, and technological improvements. The Switch 2 is anticipated to maintain the hybrid design of the original Switch, combining both home console and handheld gaming experiences, while offering enhanced hardware capabilities.
Mario
The Mario franchise is Nintendo’s flagship brand, created by Shigeru Miyamoto. It includes iconic characters such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser. Mario games have spanned multiple genres, including platformers, kart racing, sports, and party games.
The franchise first appeared in Super Mario Bros. (1985) and has since become one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time, with over 350 million units sold globally by 2023. The Super Mario Odyssey game (2017) remains one of the most successful titles in the franchise, helping boost Nintendo Switch sales.
Zelda
The Legend of Zelda franchise is another cornerstone of Nintendo’s portfolio. The franchise, which debuted in 1986, is known for its action-adventure games that feature puzzle-solving, exploration, and combat. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) was one of the key titles that drove the success of the Nintendo Switch console. Zelda games typically feature the protagonist Link as he tries to save the land of Hyrule from evil forces, primarily led by Ganon. The series has sold over 130 million copies worldwide as of 2023.
Pokémon
Pokémon is one of the most successful media franchises ever, encompassing video games, trading cards, TV shows, movies, and merchandise. The Pokémon video game series, initially launched in 1996, has sold over 400 million copies across various platforms, including handheld consoles and the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo, it continues to thrive with new releases such as Pokémon Sword and Shield (2019) and the mobile game Pokémon GO. The franchise also includes spin-offs like Pokémon Mystery Dungeon and Pokémon Snap.
Metroid
The Metroid franchise, created by Nintendo and launched in 1986, is a series of action-adventure games featuring Samus Aran, a bounty hunter in a futuristic setting. Metroid is known for its exploration-based gameplay, where players uncover hidden upgrades and secrets within expansive environments.
The series has enjoyed critical success with titles such as Metroid Prime (2002) and Metroid Dread (2021). Although not as commercially successful as Mario or Zelda, Metroid has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is considered one of Nintendo’s best franchises in the action-adventure genre.
Animal Crossing
Animal Crossing is one of Nintendo’s most beloved franchises, known for its relaxing, open-ended gameplay. Players take on the role of a character who moves to a new town populated by anthropomorphic animals, where they can engage in activities like fishing, bug catching, and designing their homes. The series is particularly popular for its immersive world-building and real-time gameplay.
The most recent entry, Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020), became one of the best-selling games for the Nintendo Switch, thanks to its soothing gameplay and customization options. As of 2023, the series has sold over 40 million copies.
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong is one of Nintendo’s earliest successful franchises, debuting in 1981 as an arcade game. It introduced the character Donkey Kong, who would go on to become one of Nintendo’s most recognizable figures. Over the years, the series has expanded into various genres, including platformers like Donkey Kong Country (1994) and racing games such as Mario Kart. While not as globally dominant as Mario, Donkey Kong has been a consistent performer in Nintendo’s portfolio, with a loyal fanbase and several successful titles for its consoles.
Splatoon
Splatoon is a relatively new franchise, introduced in 2015, that focuses on team-based, multiplayer shooter action. The games are set in a vibrant world where players control Inklings and battle it out using various ink-based weapons. The series has been widely praised for its unique take on the shooter genre, offering a more family-friendly alternative to other more violent titles. Splatoon 2 (2017) and Splatoon 3 (2022) have been among the most popular multiplayer games on the Nintendo Switch, contributing significantly to the platform’s success.
Fire Emblem
The Fire Emblem franchise is one of Nintendo’s most beloved tactical role-playing game (RPG) series. First released in 1990, Fire Emblem offers turn-based combat combined with a deep storyline. The series has been praised for its strategic depth, character development, and intricate plots. Fire Emblem: Awakening (2012) and Fire Emblem: Three Houses (2019) are among the standout entries that have garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success. As of 2023, the franchise has sold over 30 million copies.
Super Smash Bros.
Super Smash Bros. is a crossover fighting game series created by Nintendo, featuring characters from various Nintendo franchises and third-party game series. The first entry in the series was released in 1999, and it has since become one of the most popular fighting game franchises globally. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018) is the latest entry and boasts the largest roster of playable characters in the series. It has been a consistent performer on Nintendo consoles and remains a favorite for both competitive players and casual gamers alike.
Luigi’s Mansion
Luigi’s Mansion is a charming action-adventure series that stars Mario’s brother, Luigi, in a series of ghost-hunting missions. The first game debuted on the GameCube in 2001, and since then, the series has expanded to other consoles, including the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch. The most recent title, Luigi’s Mansion 3 (2019), was a major hit, praised for its engaging gameplay and humorous tone. The series stands out as one of the more unique and enjoyable franchises in Nintendo’s roster.
WarioWare
The WarioWare series is a collection of microgames that feature the character Wario, Mario’s rival, engaging in a series of quirky and rapid mini-games. The series is known for its fast-paced gameplay, creative humor, and innovative use of the hardware’s capabilities. The games have evolved over time, incorporating features such as motion controls and touch screens on the Nintendo DS and Nintendo Switch. WarioWare: Get It Together! (2021) is the most recent entry and continues to deliver the unique experience fans expect from the series.
Conclusion
Nintendo’s ownership is primarily held by institutional investors, with The Master Trust Bank of Japan leading the list. The company’s leadership and board of directors control its strategic decisions.
Despite facing strong competition from Sony and Microsoft, Nintendo maintains a unique position in the gaming industry. Its emphasis on innovation and exclusive franchises has solidified its legacy as a dominant player.
With a strong financial standing and a diverse portfolio of beloved gaming brands, Nintendo continues to shape the entertainment industry.
FAQs
Who is the largest shareholder of Nintendo?
The largest shareholder of Nintendo is The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (Trust Account), which holds approximately 16.48% of the company’s shares.
Does Nintendo own Pokémon?
Nintendo does not fully own Pokémon. The Pokémon franchise is managed by The Pokémon Company, which is jointly owned by Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures Inc.
Is Nintendo a private or public company?
Nintendo is a public company. It is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol 7974.
How much is Nintendo worth?
As of 2024, Nintendo’s market capitalization is approximately $78.60 billion, reflecting its strong financial position.
Who are Nintendo’s biggest competitors?
Nintendo’s major competitors include Sony (PlayStation), Microsoft (Xbox), Activision Blizzard, and Electronic Arts.
What gaming consoles does Nintendo make?
Nintendo has developed several gaming consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, Wii, Game Boy, and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES).