SBI Holdings to Acquire 3% Stake in Tohoku Bank

SBI Holdings, a Japanese financial company, is set to acquire a 3% stake in Tohoku Bank, according to Nikkei. SBI Holdings operates in various finance-related businesses, including securities, banking, and insurance. The acquisition is expected to strengthen SBI Holdings' presence in the Japanese banking sector.

Western Asset Intermediate Muni Fund (SBI), a prominent player in the municipal bond market, has declared a cash dividend of $0.042 per share. This dividend, set to be paid on September 2, 2025, following an ex-dividend date on August 22, 2025, exceeds the fund's 10-year average dividend of $0.029 [1]. The announcement, made on May 15, 2025, signals a significant increase in the fund's payout, potentially boosting investor confidence.

RiverNorth Capital Management's recent stake in SBI, comprising 1,399,124 shares or a 9.94% ownership, may further enhance investor confidence in the fund's stability [1]. The fund's current yield stands at 6.571%, and it is trading at an 8.1% discount, making it an attractive option for tax-exempt municipal bond investors amidst market volatility [1]. SBI's competitive positioning is also influenced by industry trends, as seen in the recent distributions by Franklin Templeton Fund Adviser, LLC, which operate in the municipal bonds category [1].

Meanwhile, in separate news, SBI Holdings, a Japanese financial company, is set to acquire a 3% stake in Tohoku Bank, according to Nikkei. SBI Holdings operates in various finance-related businesses, including securities, banking, and insurance, and this acquisition is expected to strengthen its presence in the Japanese banking sector [2].

In conclusion, Western Asset Intermediate Muni Fund's upcoming ex-dividend date on August 22, 2025, presents the final opportunity for investors to purchase shares and qualify for the dividend. Additionally, SBI Holdings' strategic move into the Japanese banking sector underscores the company's diversification efforts and expansion plans.

References:
[1] https://www.ainvest.com/news/western-asset-intermediate-muni-fund-key-dividend-news-updates-dividend-date-aug-22-2025-2508/
[2] https://www.nikkei.com/en