KKR, a prominent U.S. private equity firm, is set to acquire Japanese systems developer Fuji Soft in a deal valued at approximately 600 billion yen ($4.13 billion), Nikkei reported. This tender offer, expected to price just below 9,000 yen per share, represents a 20% premium over Fuji Soft’s recent stock closing price. The transaction comes amid increasing pressure from 3D Investment Partners, a Singapore-based firm and Fuji Soft’s largest shareholder, to enhance the company’s capital efficiency.
The decision follows a recommendation from Fuji Soft’s special committee of outside directors to pursue privatization. This move is seen as a way to focus on long-term growth strategies, which have been hindered by ongoing shareholder disputes. In response to these pressures, Fuji Soft is considering reinvestment opportunities for its founding family and management post-buyout.
Fuji Soft specializes in developing control software for vehicles and industrial equipment, and it plays a significant role among systems integrators in Japan. In 2023, the company reported a 7% increase in group sales to 298.8 billion yen. Its strategic plan aims for 435 billion yen in sales by 2028, with an emphasis on new ventures in generative AI and 5G technology. Partnering with KKR is expected to bolster Fuji Soft’s growth by leveraging the private equity firm’s expertise and connections in the tech industry.
