Market Chatter: Japanese Corporate Real Estate Sales Hit 18-Year High as Firms Boost Efficiency
Corporate property sales in Japan rose 9% to 1.23 trillion yen in 2025, marking the highest level in nearly two decades, as listed companies shed assets to improve profitability, Nikkei reported on Sunday.Food maker Ajinomoto (TYO:2802) sold its Tokyo headquarters and will relocate functions this summer, while Yamato Holdings (TYO:9064) offloaded four properties, including its Ginza office, the news daily said.Engineering firm IHI (TYO:7013) planned three sales in Koto ward, expected to generate 56.8 billion yen in capital gains, over 80% of which will be booked this fiscal year, the publication said.The trend reflects growing pressure on Japanese firms to streamline operations and raise return on equity, aligning with broader shareholder-driven governance reforms, the report said.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)