[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] The Korea Exchange (KRX) has halted the IPO process of SK Enmove, a subsidiary of SK Innovation, over concerns of dual listing and potential harm to existing shareholders.
According to industry sources on Wednesday, SK Enmove and its underwriters have suspended plans to submit a preliminary IPO review in response to the KRX’s directive. The exchange has made it clear that SK Enmove must first submit a reasonable shareholder protection plan to prevent damage to SK Innovation investors before it can proceed with the review process.
While submitting an IPO application is typically at the company’s discretion, the KRX’s request carries significant weight, particularly as dual listings have been criticized for contributing to the undervaluation of the Korean stock market. The exchange's move signals a stronger regulatory stance, potentially setting a precedent for similar cases in the future.
The KRX’s insistence on preemptive investor protection measures is being interpreted as an effort to restore market confidence and address mounting criticism over the dilutive effects of overlapping listings within conglomerate groups.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
