Finally, Toshiba turns it on: focus on Internet is credited for stock upswing

Article Abstract:

Toshiba's stock price increased 11% since its March 21, 2000 pledge to focus on Internet-related products for three years. The electronics firm's interest in silicon chips, notebook compupers and liquid crystal displays are emphasized.

Strategy & planning, Financial analysis, Column

Power outage in Japan

Article Abstract:

Many of Japan's most successful electronics and computer companies are suffering from delayed growth. Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. posted a 38.7 billion yen in losses, and NEC Corp. announced it would lay off 4,000 employees as a reorganization business plan. Although the downturn has increased the competition of electronic companies, economists predict that it is just a cycle, and that it will give companies time to reorganize and spark a period of rebirth.

Sales, profits & dividends, Market information - general, Other Electrical Equipment and Component Manufacturing, Electronics, Electronic Components and Accessories, Human resource management, Finance, Electronics industry, NEC Corp., Matsushita Electric Industrial Company Ltd., MC

Companies vow to revamp

Article Abstract:

The restructuring of big Japanese corporations has already started exerting a positive effect on the Nikkei stock average but investors doubt if some corporations are really willing to go for deep cuts. Toshiba Corp is a prime example of a company that is serious about restructuring. It has cut 10,000 jobs, reduced its board of directors to 12, and has either spun off or sold its weak businesses. As a result, the firm's stock price has jumped 70% in six months. Analysts say that deep cuts in excess operations such as staff, offices and machines is needed and not superficial changes.

United States, Organizational history, All Other Miscellaneous Electrical Equipment and Component Manufacturing, Electrical Equipment NEC, Economic aspects, Electric equipment, Corporate reorganizations