Elliott Management Corp. has acquired a significant stake in Sumitomo Corp., a move reflecting the growing interest in Japanese trading companies by major investors, including Warren Buffett. The stake, worth several tens of billions of yen, represents about a 0.2% interest in Sumitomo for every ¥10 billion based on the recent closing share price. Sumitomo's shares have surged 27% this year, reaching an all-time high, partly due to Buffett's increased investments in Japanese trading houses. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. holds an 8.3% stake in Sumitomo, aiming for 9.9% in similar firms. This investment trend underscores Japan's appeal to activist investors, with Elliott Management leading the charge by targeting companies for strategic and financial overhauls to enhance shareholder returns.