Toshiba’s financial problems appear to be much deeper than first believed. Several sources are claiming that the electronics manufacturer is in talks with Sony for the sale of its image sensor division for about 20 billion Yen (about RM701 million).
The Japanese manufacturer has been restructuring its business after revelations that it was overstating earnings since 2008. This came out to a tune of some US$1.8 billion (about RM7.6 billion). As a result, it is apparently planning to divorce itself of the image sensor business and is selling its manufacturing plant in southern Japan.
Sony’s image sensor business is one of its more successful businesses. In addition to make its own cameras, it also provides the sensors for both Apple and Samsung devices. Toshiba does not enjoy this same sort popularity, and it looks like Sony is mainly looking for the expanded manufacturing capability.
Neither company has commented on the matter, although sources claim that the deal is in its advanced stages. An announcement is expected some time next week.
[Source: Reuters]
