Core Insights - The Nintendo Switch has become the company's best-selling console of all time, with lifetime sales reaching 155.37 million units, surpassing the previous record held by the Nintendo DS [3] - The Switch's success marks a significant turnaround for Nintendo, which faced challenges following the poor performance of the Wii U, leading to a tripling of the company's valuation since the Switch's release [2][3] Product Evolution - The Switch was launched in March 2017, following the Wii U's failure, which sold only 13.56 million units compared to the Wii's 100 million [5] - The Switch combines the features of both handheld and traditional consoles, allowing users to play on a large screen or on the go, thus merging Nintendo's dual product strategy into a single offering [6][7] Market Timing and Strategy - The timing of the Switch's release was crucial, as it countered the rising popularity of mobile gaming, which had negatively impacted the sales of previous consoles like the 3DS and Wii U [8] - Nintendo's strategy included leveraging its popular franchises and characters, with titles like "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" selling over 70 million units, contributing to the console's popularity [9][10] Expansion of Intellectual Property - Nintendo has broadened its intellectual property reach beyond consoles, engaging in collaborations with theme parks, movies, and toys, which helped maintain interest in the Switch [11] - The recent success of the Super Mario movie in 2023 also revitalized interest in the Switch, demonstrating the effectiveness of this strategy [10][11] Future Prospects - Nintendo aims to replicate the success of the Switch with the recently launched Switch 2, which has already sold over 14 million units, making it the fastest-selling console in the company's history [12]

Core Insights - The current era rewards stability and prudence in business practices [2][27] - Companies with strong cash reserves can navigate challenges more effectively [18][27] Group 1: Case Study of Nintendo - Nintendo revolutionized the gaming industry with the launch of Wii, selling over 100 million units and significantly increasing its market value [5][24] - The failure of Wii U led to substantial losses, with stock prices plummeting back to 10,000 yen and market value evaporating by over 85% [9][10] - Despite pressure from the market to cut costs and pivot to software, Nintendo's leadership maintained a conservative financial strategy, preserving cash reserves of over 1 trillion yen [17][18] - This financial stability allowed Nintendo to retain talent, invest in R&D, and explore innovative ideas without immediate pressure for profitability [20][21][22] - The successful launch of the Switch in 2017, which sold over 140 million units, marked a significant recovery for Nintendo [24][25] Group 2: Principles of Stability - Companies should maintain a robust cash reserve to ensure operational flexibility during downturns [27][35] - Stability encompasses three key aspects: capability stability, financial stability, and mental resilience [33][34][35] - The ability to adapt and learn new skills is crucial for long-term success in a changing market [34] - Financial stability provides the freedom to make choices without immediate economic pressure [35] - Mental resilience allows individuals and companies to navigate challenges while maintaining a clear strategic vision [36]