In a significant development, ABC Television, based in Osaka, announced the resignation of its executive Takushi Shimizu on January 28, 2025. The decision followed an internal investigation into improper expense claims amounting to approximately 1.16 million yen for entertainment costs. This incident has raised concerns about corporate governance and financial transparency within the company. Shimizu's departure is effective from January 31, 2025. The company has expressed regret over the situation and committed to strengthening its internal controls to prevent similar occurrences.

The controversy surrounding Shimizu began when it was discovered that he had submitted reimbursement requests for 39 gatherings between April 2024 and late 2024. These claims falsely represented internal employee meetings as events attended by external parties. The discrepancies were identified internally in November 2024, leading to an immediate review. Shimizu acknowledged his misconduct and agreed to repay the improperly claimed funds. This revelation prompted the company to hold an extraordinary board meeting on January 28, where the decision to accept his resignation was made.

The incident underscores the importance of stringent oversight and ethical conduct within corporate environments. It highlights the need for robust systems to monitor and regulate expense claims. ABC Television, which operates under public scrutiny, emphasized its commitment to rebuilding trust with stakeholders. The company stated it would reevaluate its internal processes and implement stricter checks to ensure compliance and integrity moving forward.

Shimizu's resignation marks a turning point for ABC Television. The organization plans to introduce tighter controls and enhanced oversight mechanisms to reinforce its dedication to ethical practices. By addressing this issue head-on, the company aims to restore confidence among its stakeholders. The board expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the significance of maintaining transparency and adhering to high standards of corporate governance. This event serves as a reminder of the increasing focus on accountability and the critical role of clear policies in preventing financial misreporting.