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Photo courtesy of Yonhap News |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] SK Hynix said it has not reviewed any specific details regarding reports that it is preparing a shareholder return program worth up to 100 trillion won, drawing a clear line between general considerations and the reported figures.
In a regulatory filing on June 16 addressing market rumors, the company stated that it is “reviewing various shareholder return measures to enhance shareholder value,” but added that “specific details such as the scale mentioned in the report have not been considered.”
Earlier, local media reported that SK Hynix was preparing a massive shareholder return plan for the fourth quarter of this year, potentially including share buybacks and cash dividends totaling up to 100 trillion won. The report also suggested that share repurchases alone could reach around 40 trillion won, equivalent to roughly 2% of total shares outstanding.
While acknowledging that shareholder return policies are under review, SK Hynix emphasized that the scale and structure cited in the report are not accurate.
The company has been benefiting from strong earnings growth driven by robust demand for AI semiconductors, particularly high-bandwidth memory (HBM). Improved performance has also led to a significant increase in employee compensation.
Last year, SK Hynix reportedly paid performance-based bonuses (PS) amounting to 2,964% of base salary, funded by a portion of operating profit. Expectations for this year’s bonuses are also rising, as the company is believed to have secured substantial PS funding following strong operating profits in the first quarter.
At the same time, the company noted the need to balance shareholder returns with large-scale investments. SK Hynix is continuing to expand capital expenditure and R&D investment to strengthen its competitiveness in AI memory.
Industry observers expect the company’s shareholder return policy to be determined by a comprehensive assessment of earnings growth, investment plans, and financial stability.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
