1. What Happened?

CEO Lim Moo-hyun purchased 278 and 254 shares on July 14th and 24th, respectively. A related party, Ms. Lim Hae-ji, also acquired 1,000 shares on July 9th. The stake increased marginally from 27.36% to 27.38%, with the stated purpose as ‘management influence’.

2. Why the Stock Purchase?

Management buying back company stock is generally viewed as a positive sign, indicating confidence in the company’s future. Especially if the stock price has been stagnant or declining, this move could be a catalyst for a rebound. It can also restore investor confidence and enhance corporate value.

3. Should You Invest in Daejoo Electronic Materials Now?

  • Strengths: Growth driven by increasing demand for secondary battery anode materials, diversified business portfolio, continuous R&D investment and numerous patents.
  • Weaknesses: Potential profit decline due to raw material price and exchange rate fluctuations, low operating rates in some business segments, high debt ratio.
  • Opportunities: Growth of the electric vehicle and renewable energy market.
  • Threats: Global economic uncertainty, slowdown in Chinese economic growth.

While there’s short-term momentum for stock price increase, long-term investors should continuously monitor fundamental improvements. Key factors to watch include risk management related to raw material prices and exchange rate fluctuations, improvement in production efficiency, and strengthening of financial soundness.

4. Action Plan for Investors

While the stock purchase is positive news, ensure you check the following before making investment decisions:

  • Analyze securities firm reports
  • Analyze hedging strategies for raw material price and exchange rate fluctuations
  • Analyze the performance and market conditions of the Chinese subsidiary
  • Conduct competitor analysis