Solidigm's potential Nasdaq IPO: Can Korean regulators intervene?
Korean regulators are facing calls to block a potential Nasdaq listing of Solidigm, SK hynix's U.S.-based NAND flash memory subsidiary, amid concerns that the move could undermine protections for shareholders of its Korean parent company, industry officials said Wednesday. "President Lee Jae Myung should use every means at his disposal to stop the listing," said Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the main…
South Korean regulators are under pressure to block a potential Nasdaq listing for Solidigm, the U.S.-based NAND flash memory subsidiary of SK hynix, due to worries that such a move could weaken shareholder protections for SK hynix's Korean parent company, according to industry officials. Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the main opposition People Power Party urged SK hynix's chairman, Lee Jae Myung, to employ all available measures to prevent the listing.
If Solidigm goes public, its growing valuation and expanding shareholder base could dilute the indirect ownership of SK hynix shareholders. Solidigm is owned by AI Company, a U.S.-based entity controlled by SK hynix, with further ownership stakes held by SK Square and SK Group's holding company, SK Inc. This issue highlights Korea's intricate corporate ownership structures, which have long been criticized by retail investors as contributing to the "Korea discount."
In July, Korea implemented regulations to shield minority shareholders from unfavorable dual listings, requiring companies seeking to list carved-out subsidiaries domestically to obtain shareholder approval and adequate protection.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.