Midea Group(SZ:000333) 2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2026-01-07 07:37Core Viewpoint - Carestream Health, a leader in traditional medical imaging equipment, announced its split into two independent entities focused on different regional markets, with Carestream International being acquired by Midea Group, marking a strategic shift for both companies [1][2]. Group 1: Carestream Health's Challenges - Carestream Health, previously a part of Kodak's X-ray imaging division, has faced significant challenges in adapting to technological advancements and competition, leading to a bankruptcy protection filing in 2022 and a debt reduction of $220 million [1][3]. - The company's core business, including film imaging and conventional radiography, has struggled to keep pace with the rapid integration of artificial intelligence and the rise of surgical robots and high-end imaging equipment, resulting in a decline in market share against competitors like GE Healthcare and Siemens [1][3]. - The high costs associated with global operations have exacerbated Carestream's operational difficulties, as the company has not achieved economies of scale and faces complex regulatory compliance costs in various regions [3]. Group 2: Strategic Restructuring - In response to financial pressures and technological shifts, Carestream has opted for a strategic restructuring, splitting into two independent entities to optimize its balance sheet and reduce international business pressures, focusing resources on the U.S. market [4][6]. - The newly formed Carestream International will encompass most of the company's international operations outside the U.S., with the aim of leveraging external capital to drive growth in its international R&D and sales channels [5][6]. Group 3: Midea Group's Acquisition Strategy - Midea Group's acquisition of Carestream International represents a significant step in its transformation from a home appliance manufacturer to a diversified technology group, enhancing its medical segment's international presence [2][7]. - The acquisition allows Midea to gain access to Carestream's established overseas imaging business platform and network, which is crucial for its global expansion strategy in the medical sector [2][8]. - Midea has been actively building its medical ecosystem since 2017 through strategic acquisitions, and the integration of Carestream's technology and sales network is expected to enhance its competitive position in the medical imaging market [7][8]. Group 4: Future Prospects - Midea's medical segment is positioned as a key growth driver, with a clear focus on imaging diagnostic equipment, which is seen as having substantial growth potential in the domestic market [8][9]. - The successful integration of Carestream's international sales network with Midea's existing global channels could lower the costs associated with entering international markets for domestic medical equipment [9].