A well-established PCB manufacturer, APCB INC. (6108.TW), announced its first-ever stock buyback plan on December 13, aiming to stabilize its plummeting stock price. The company plans to repurchase 8,000 shares between December 16 and February 15, 2025, with a price range set between NT$11.87 and NT$24.84 per share. If fully executed, this buyback would represent 5% of the company's shares.

APCB 's stock has been on a steady decline since early October, following the announcement of a large-scale workforce reduction in Taiwan. As of the close of December 13, the company's stock price stood at NT$17.65, down 4.13% for the day, marking a historic low and reflecting a price-to-book ratio of just 0.72, significantly undervaluing the stock compared to its net asset value of NT$24.42 per share.

The company has been under increasing pressure since 2022, with mounting losses from its Taiwanese operations. In response, APCB initiated a plant closure plan in September and followed up with the mass layoffs in October. The Taiwan plant is expected to cease production by December 25, with all remaining orders being transferred to its subsidiary, King Lu Electronics, in Kunshan, China. APCB  forecasts that combined revenue from the transfer will maintain approximately 70-80% of current levels.

This buyback is part of APCB 's broader strategy to maintain investor confidence and protect shareholder interests during a challenging period for the company. The decision underscores the company's efforts to navigate its current difficulties while positioning itself for long-term stability in the global PCB market.