A view of the HYBE headquarters building
A view of the HYBE headquarters building

Following Netmarble’s block deal in which there was after-hours bulk trade, HYBE has seen a diversification in its ownership structure due to an influx of foreign investment. This has resulted in a more stabilized corporate framework for the company.

According to recent data from the Korea Exchange (KRX) Information Data System, HYBE has attracted attention by facing a rush of foreign investors purchasing approximately 383 billion won (US$290.37 million) worth of shares, or 1.84 million shares.

Since the block deal by Netmarble, the second largest shareholder of HYBE, there has been a notable increase in the pace and volume of stake acquisitions by foreign institutional investors. As a result, the foreign ownership percentage, which had maintained a level around the mid-10 percent range until early last month, has surpassed the 20 percent mark.

In investment circles, the recent shift in HYBE’s ownership structure is seen as a turning point, alleviating concerns about potential reverse growth through numerous cross-border mergers and acquisitions, the impressive album performances of label artists, and the successful renegotiation of contracts with artists like BTS. In this context, Netmarble’s block deal is seen not as a source of concern but rather as an investment opportunity.

Copyright © BusinessKorea. Prohibited from unauthorized reproduction and redistribution