Sony invests $645M in Olympus to become largest shareholder

Despite its own well documented financial woes, Sony has coughed up $645 million (UK£400,AU$621) to become the largest shareholder in Olympus.

The deal givs Sony a 51 per cent stake in the company, whereas Olympus will maintain 49 per cent of the pie.

The investment, it seems, is less about Sony wanting a slice of Olympus' digital imaging expertise and more about taking a foothold in the medical supplies business, where Olympus is a big player.

"By combining the know-how and products Olympus has developed in its medical business with Sony's strengths in audio visual solutions, the two companies aim to establish a comprehensive systems integration business that offers high value-added solutions for operating rooms and other medical arenas," the new best friends said in a joint statement.

Camera collaboration not forgot

The investment was dubbed a "business alliance agreement" and "capital alliance agreement," according to a press release, language that points to a mutually beneficial relationship moving forward.

Sony CEO Karzuo Hirai stated that the two Japanese giants aren't forgetting about each other's respective strengths in the camera business.

"We also believe there are many potential opportunities for collaboration between Olympus and Sony's digital camera businesses and are confident that by building on our respective strengths we can also enhance and grow our presence in this market," he said.

The deal follows a year in which Panasonic, Samsung, and Fujifilm were all linked with significant investment in Olympus.

Tsuyoshi Kikukawa, Olympus's former chairman, pleaded guilty earlier this week to charges of falsifying accounts in order to cover up $1.7 billion (UK£1.05, AU$1.63) in losses.

We first reported on Sony's interest back in June, but back then it was only thought to be after 10 per cent share.

Via Hothardware, DPReview, BBC