Abstract

Purpose: Research on spin-off and treasury stock is necessary because the market has realized that this can be utilized for major shareholder private interest. Considering the unique characteristic of a spin-off and treasury stock in the Korean stock market, this study contributes to the literature by examining the effects on shareholder value in the Korean distribution industry. Research design, data, and methodology: The present study investigates literature, analyst reports, and news articles to examine the spin-off process and analyze how treasury stock magic happens. Results: Setting the exchange ratio favoring Spin-Co in the spin-off is the leading cause for reducing the minor shareholders' value. Moreover, treating treasury stock as an asset is also problematic, allowing the allocation of Spin-Co shares. This leads to an increase in the major shareholder controls of Spin-Co without any contribution from the major shareholders. Therefore, the exchange ratio should be calculated reasonably, and treasury stock from the stock repurchase should be treated as stock retirement. Conclusion: By analyzing the spin-off and how treasury stock magic occurs, this study provides recommendations to improve shareholder value. Moreover, it contributes to the maturation of the Korean capital market by promoting a discussion on the revision of spin-off and treasury stock.