Seven & I Considers IPO for North American Unit Valued Up to 5 Trillion Yen; Fujifilm Doubles Chip Materials Investment

Seven & I Holdings is considering an initial public offering (IPO) for its North American operations, which could reach a valuation of up to 5 trillion yen. This potential IPO aims to generate funds for a management buyout (MBO) amidst ongoing acquisition discussions with foreign investors. The estimated value of the subsidiary involved in the IPO is between 4 trillion and 5 trillion yen, indicating a substantial public offering if realized. Meanwhile, Fujifilm plans to double its investment in semiconductor materials, enhancing production capacity in Japan, the U.S., and South Korea, in response to rising demand in the chip manufacturing sector. Additionally, Sumitomo Chemical has announced a reduction in its output of LCD panel materials due to increased competition from China and South Korea.