Sony is moving forward with plans to spin off its financial arm, Sony Financial Group, as part of a significant corporate transformation. The company will distribute over 80% of the financial group's shares to its shareholders as dividends in kind, holding onto less than 20% itself. This strategic move aims to enhance Sony's focus on its core entertainment and technology sectors.
This decision marks a notable change in the Japanese corporate landscape, as it represents the first spin-off since the country's 2023 tax reform and Japan's first direct listing in over two decades. Reuters reported that the separation is expected to improve capital efficiency and provide clearer strategic direction across Sony's varied business units.
Sony's latest shift aligns with its increasing emphasis on its entertainment operations, which now generate over 60% of its revenue, spanning games, movies, music, and anime. The company has announced plans to invest ¥3.5 trillion ($24.5 billion) in capital and strategic initiatives by 2027, particularly focusing on growing its entertainment sector and reinforcing its position in smartphone image sensor market.