Toyota Motor Corporation is exploring a $42 billion acquisition of its key supplier, Toyota Industries. Spearheaded by Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda and his family, the proposed buyout is valued at approximately 6 trillion yen, according to Reuters. This move is seen as a strategic effort by one of the world's largest automakers to consolidate its supply chain operations.
Toyota presently holds a 24% stake in Toyota Industries, which plays a pivotal role in supplying the automaker with essential components and products, including forklifts, RAV4 vehicles, and engines. The potential acquisition not only underscores the significance of Toyota Industries to Toyota Motor Corporation but also highlights the importance of solidifying internal partnerships within the company. Furthermore, this deal could significantly impact the stock market, with Toyota Industries' shares anticipated to rise sharply, potentially reaching the daily trading upper limit of 16,225 yen—a 23% increase from the previous closing price.
This proposed buyout is also viewed within Toyota as an opportunity to bolster corporate governance by simplifying the cross-shareholding structure prevalent within the Toyota group. However, both Toyota Motor Corporation and Toyota Industries have clarified that while discussions are ongoing, no definitive agreements have been finalized as of yet.