Mar 3 • 22:00 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Why Did Nidec's Accounting Fraud Spread? Third-party Committee Says 'Need to Shed the Influence of Mr. Nagamori'

A third-party committee has revealed that accounting fraud at Nidec, a global motor manufacturer, was widespread due to pressure from its founder, Mr. Shigenobu Nagamori, prioritizing high performance targets over ethical practices.

Nidec Corporation, a globally recognized motor manufacturer, has been embroiled in a significant accounting fraud scandal that has been traced back to pressures exerted by its founder, Shigenobu Nagamori. The company has been under investigation for various financial irregularities which are believed to have started long before the 2020 fiscal year, as stated by a third-party committee. Reports indicate that these irregular practices were rampant throughout the company, affecting all divisions and highlighting a culture that prioritizes aggressive financial targets over ethical responsibility.

The specifics of the accounting malpractices at Nidec are alarming, including instances of inflated sales figures and the double counting of inventory in its subsidiary, Nidec Servo. The methods employed for the fraud were diverse and horrific in intent, aimed at showcasing a facade of achieving unrealistic profit targets, creating an environment where employees felt compelled to produce results at any cost. This resulted in pushing employees into extreme working hours, even insisting on "working through the night" to meet these targets, a clear indication of the toxic corporate culture instigated by the heavy demands of leadership.

The findings of the committee suggest that a significant cultural overhaul is necessary at Nidec, particularly in distancing the company from the longstanding influence of its founder. With a rich history of innovation and growth, Nidec now faces the challenge of rectifying its public image and financial integrity, which could impact not only its operations but also its relationship with stakeholders and investors. The implications of such a deep-seated issue could lead to stricter regulatory scrutiny, reshaping how the company operates on a fundamental level moving forward.

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