Asahi Defends Spending $22 Billion Building Beer Empire

Asahi is aggressively pursuing global expansion to become the world's leading beer company. With a strong balance sheet, it is acquiring brands from other major beer makers, often due to antitrust issues. Asahi is focusing on overseas markets due to declining beer demand in Japan, targeting premium brands in Europe and Australia. Despite challenges in China, Asahi has a successful track record in overseas acquisitions. The company benefits from a strong financial position, allowing it to acquire businesses at fair prices, especially as other industry players face financial constraints.

What has been the track record of Japanese companies in overseas acquisitions?

In what way does Asahi's financial position affect its acquisition strategy?