Amid speculation over the consolidation of regional banks in Tohoku, Kusuri no Aoki announced strong results. Workman’s monthly figures showed slower growth, while the Nikkei average declined as the market awaited US employment-related data.
The Nikkei Average retreated for the first time in 3 days today, and a wait-and-see mood spread as investors assessed developments in the US market. Although the September ISM manufacturing index was firm, concerns about inflation remained, while uncertainty over long-term interest rates increased.
Amid rising expectations for consolidation among regional banks in the Tohoku region, プロクレアホールディングス announced that its board would consider initiating discussions on a management integration. This raised the prospect of the creation of one of the largest regional-bank groups in Tohoku.
クスリのアオキホールディングス reported first-quarter operating profit of ¥8.4 billion for the fiscal year ending May 2027, up 16.0% year on year, while September same-store sales accelerated to a 2.4% increase. Expansion of large-format stores and stronger fresh-food offerings contributed.
ワークマン's September same-store sales rose 20.7% year on year, marking 3 consecutive months of double-digit growth. However, sales did not reach the company's planned level.