Experienced equities broker, John Seagrim, discusses the undervalued assets and hidden value in Japanese equities. They explore the impact of historical events on Japan's corporate mentality and the country's recent positive trajectory in investments driven by government initiatives and improving corporate governance.
Corporate Japan's risk aversion rooted in past traumas influences conservative financial practices.
Undervalued Japanese enterprises offer investment opportunities through asset management restructuring.
Deep dives
The History of Japanese Financial Markets and Corporate Mentality
Corporate Japan operates with great risk aversion, hoarding cash due to a historical fear of economic instability post the 1990 bubble burst and subsequent natural disasters like the tsunami and earthquakes. Companies like Rini maintain massive reserves akin to an Armageddon fund, reflecting a cautious approach rooted in past traumas and societal anxieties, leading to a shift from high-risk gambling mindsets to conservative financial practices.
Shift Towards Value Investing in Japanese Market
The Japanese stock market presents an appealing investment opportunity due to undervalued enterprises resulting from a prolonged trend of over-hoarding corporate assets. As companies begin to shed excess assets in favor of higher returns and share prices, a transition to a return of equity story is observed, promising increased shareholder value and improved evaluations through enhanced asset management strategies.
Unveiling Hidden Assets and Encouraging Shareholder Activism in Japan
Japan's corporate landscape holds numerous hidden assets overlooked by investors, contributing to undervalued market conditions. Activists and engagement funds have emerged to challenge Japanese companies, advocating for improved shareholder returns and governance reforms. The rise of shareholder activism, alongside governmental support and changing demographics, signals a pivotal moment for Japanese companies to address inefficiencies, restructure portfolios, and foster consolidation for long-term growth and investor benefits.
Steven Chambers, analyst at Hosking Partners, interviews CLSA’s John Seagrim and Jeremy Hosking for the third episode of Capital Cyclists.
John started his career as an equities broker 10 days before Black Monday in October 1987. Two years later he joined Lehman Brothers just as the Japanese stock market peaked, and, in his own words ‘has been riding, or more accurately sliding, with Japan ever since’. From a stock market perspective, Japan has seldom been as insignificant as it is today, it represents a little over 4% of the aggregate global stock market capitalisation despite being one of the world’s largest economies. John and Jeremy think this is the nadir for equity valuations. Their discussion is hot on the heels of Jeremy’s recent investor trip and Hosking Partners’ first overweight exposure to Japan. They perceive extraordinary, often hidden, value in Japanese equities at a moment when the country appears to be at an historic turning point.