Goldman Sachs(US:GS) Goldman Sachs·2025-05-26 13:25Investment Rating - The report indicates a focus on improving the M&A environment in Japan, suggesting a positive outlook for the market [6][29]. Core Insights - The report highlights the ongoing commitment of Japanese regulatory bodies to enhance the M&A landscape, with significant revisions to corporate governance expected in the coming months [6][29]. - The report emphasizes the importance of protecting minority shareholders during M&A transactions, which is seen as a critical factor for accelerating M&A activities in Japan [6][29]. - The report notes that the recent increase in share buybacks has led to a rise in total dividend payouts, indicating a positive trend in corporate capital return strategies [18][19]. Summary by Sections Market Overview - The TOPIX index is currently at 2,735.52, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.2%, while the NK225 index is at 37,160.47, down by 1.6% [1]. - Key sectors performing well include non-ferrous metals and pharmaceuticals, while insurance and glass & ceramics are lagging [1][20]. Corporate Actions - There has been a notable net purchase of TSE Prime cash stocks by foreign investors amounting to ¥597 billion, while individual and institutional investors have net sold ¥222 billion each [3]. - The report mentions that the total amount of share buybacks announced in the second quarter has already surpassed the total for the entire second quarter of the previous fiscal year [2][13]. Earnings and Forecasts - The report provides earnings per share (EPS) forecasts for FY24 and FY25, with expected growth rates of 10% and 2% respectively [25][30]. - The average exchange rate assumptions for the yen against the dollar are set at ¥145 for FY25, indicating a potential impact on export-oriented companies [11][29]. Sector Performance - The pharmaceutical sector has shown a 3% increase over the past week, while the defense sector has also performed well with a 3% rise [20]. - The report lists various sectors with their respective performance metrics over different time frames, highlighting the best and worst performers [21][66].