TOKYO, April 28 - Shares of Japanese logistics group Nippon Express Holdings climbed sharply after U.S. activist investor Elliott Investment Management revealed it held a 5.04% stake in the company on Tuesday.
The initial market reaction was brisk: Nippon Express surged as much as 15% before trimming some of those gains. In afternoon trading the stock was up about 8% at 4,186 yen per share.
Under Japanese rules, shareholders must publicly disclose a holding once it rises above the 5% threshold. Elliott has not provided any public explanation for this recent investment in Nippon Express.
This disclosure is the latest move from Elliott as the firm increases its activity in Japan. The investor has been active in the market recently, including a campaign launched late last year calling for a higher price in Toyota group companies' take-private of supplier Toyota Industries. In 2026 Elliott disclosed positions in shipping firm Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and air conditioner manufacturer Daikin, urging those companies to concentrate on their core operations and to raise returns to shareholders.
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Market participants will watch for any follow-up from Elliott that could clarify intent or outline a strategic plan for Nippon Express. Until Elliott provides additional detail, the company and its shareholders are left to weigh the implications of the stake based on the limited information disclosed.