KT&G Unveils Ambitious Shareholder Return and Growth Strategy

KT&G's Comprehensive Corporate Value-Up Plan

KT&G Corporation, a leading player in the industry, has recently announced its ambitious Corporate Value-Up Plan aimed at enhancing shareholder returns and boosting its return on equity (ROE) targets. The plan outlines a robust strategy, with a remarkable KRW 3.7 trillion commitment to shareholders by the year 2027.

Significant Shareholder Returns and Equity Goals

As part of this initiative, KT&G will initiate additional shareholder returns through a significant KRW 150 billion share buyback and cancellation throughout the year. This strategy is expected to push KT&G's total shareholder returns to exceed 100%, highlighting the company's dedication to delivering value to its investors.

Focus on Profitability and Efficiency

KT&G aims to enhance its ROE progressively from the current 10% to an admirable 15% by 2027. The strategy comprises a blend of initiatives aimed at refining profitability, optimizing asset efficiency, and strengthening financial structures. This multifaceted approach underscores KT&G’s intention to revitalize its core business areas, including Overseas Cigarettes, Next Generation Products (NGP), and Health Functional Food.

Addressing Non-Core Assets for Growth

The company’s strategy includes evaluating its portfolio to generate approximately KRW 1 trillion in cash by divesting non-core and low-yield assets. By doing so, KT&G aims to leverage these financial resources to invest in growth opportunities and further enhance shareholder returns, thereby elevating capital efficiency.

Investment Strategy and Operational Streamlining

KT&G plans to innovate its capital expenditure (Capex) strategy aimed at improving investment efficiency. The initially planned KRW 3.5 trillion investment budget for 2023 to 2027 has been reduced to KRW 2.4 trillion, indicating a streamlined approach while still maintaining anticipated production expansion and return on investment expectations.

Enhanced Shareholder Policies

The new shareholder return policy is designed to position KT&G among the top companies, domestically and internationally. Over the four years (2024-2027), the plan will distribute a total of KRW 3.7 trillion to shareholders through cash dividends and share buybacks. The revised policy also proposes the implementation of the 'KT&G Plus Alpha Program', which will channel resources from improved asset efficiency directly to shareholder returns, focusing primarily on share buybacks and immediate cancellation.

Expanding Share Buybacks in 2023

In line with these commitments, KT&G's Board of Directors has resolved to accelerate share repurchasing, aiming to buy back and cancel 1.35 million shares within this calendar year. Utilizing KRW 150 billion from divested assets will allow KT&G to undertake this endeavor, alongside existing treasury share cancellations, bringing the total returns to shareholders this year up to KRW 1.4 trillion.

Corporate Value Growth Emphasis

Lee Sang-Hak, Senior Executive Vice President of KT&G, emphasized the significance of ROE as a critical performance metric. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to intensify efforts to uplift corporate value and maximize shareholder satisfaction, aiming for global recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is KT&G's Corporate Value-Up Plan?

KT&G's Corporate Value-Up Plan is an initiative aimed at enhancing shareholder returns and achieving a 15% return on equity by 2027.

How much will KT&G return to shareholders?

KT&G plans to return a total of KRW 3.7 trillion to shareholders over a four-year period from 2024 to 2027.

What are the key components of KT&G's investment strategy?

KT&G's investment strategy focuses on optimizing capital expenditure and improving efficiency through divesting low-yield assets while maintaining growth investments.

What is the expected impact of the share buyback program?

The additional share buyback program is expected to elevate shareholder returns significantly, contributing to a total return of over 100% this year.

Who is leading KT&G's corporate initiatives?

Lee Sang-Hak, Senior Executive Vice President of KT&G, is leading the company's initiatives to enhance corporate value and maximize shareholder satisfaction.

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