$ITOCF

Itochu Corp (TYO:8001) reported record first-half net profit of 580.5 billion yen, up 16% YoY, with core profit rising 33% to 504.5 billion yen. The company maintained its full-year net profit forecast of 950 billion yen. Growth was driven by non-resource and resource-related segments, with machinery, metals, and energy contributing significantly. Itochu expects a slowdown in energy and chemicals earnings in the second half.

ITOCHU Corp., Mercuria Holdings, and En Growth Fund invested in Capital Ship Co., parent of Smart Technologies, a Japan-based duty-free tech provider. The investment aims to capitalize on Japan's growing inbound tourism and a 2026 duty-free system reform. Smart Technologies' services are used by 2,500+ retailers, and the new system is expected to boost demand for tax refund support.

Wei Ying-chiao, an executive of Ting Hsin International Group, acquired a 17.274% stake in Taipei Financial Center Corp. (TFCC), operator of Taipei 101, from Itochu. Wei's company, Cheng Mei Capital, will join other shareholders, including government-invested banks, in TFCC. Itochu had previously reduced its stake in TFCC.

Itochu Corp. will acquire a minority stake in IAG Engine Tech, a new engine maintenance business within International Airlines Group (IAG). The investment, expected to complete in early 2027, aims to expand IAG Engine Tech's third-party aftermarket services. IAG will retain majority control. Itochu brings industrial expertise and international reach. IAG Engine Tech will operate in Madrid from 2027, handling various engine types.

Itochu will acquire Hitachi Construction Machinery's Taiwan sales unit by 2026, aiming to leverage strong construction demand for semiconductor facilities.

The EU Commission approved Dentsu Group and ITOCHU's acquisition of Dentsu Soken. The deal involves enterprise services and software. The Commission found no competition concerns due to the joint venture's minimal EU activities. The case was reviewed under a simplified procedure.

ITOCHU Corporation has partnered with SORAMICHI Co., Ltd. to expand its consulting services, supporting clients' business transformation from strategy to system implementation. SORAMICHI specializes in bridging business functions and IT systems, particularly in financial and real estate sectors. The alliance aligns with ITOCHU's digital business strategy and aims to broaden service offerings and customer base.

Itochu Corporation acquired a 20% stake in private equity firm Aspirant Group, making it an affiliate. Aspirant manages 170 billion yen in assets and focuses on business succession and carve-out investments in Japan. Itochu aims to combine Aspirant's expertise with its global network to support digital transformation in portfolio companies.

Itochu and Tokyo Century plan to jointly acquire Aviation Capital Group. The deal involves purchasing shares, giving them joint control. Itochu is a diversified trading company with aircraft leasing operations.

ITOCHU Corp. (8001.T) acquired a 20% stake in private equity fund manager Aspirant Group Inc. The investment aims to combine Aspirant's expertise with ITOCHU's global network, supporting digital transformation. ITOCHU shares gained 0.77% to 2,155.00 JPY on the Tokyo stock exchange.