Sony stock sale is Square Enix returning a favour, says producer

Sony's decision to sell its entire stock in Square Enix is a deal hashed out between the two companies, according to producer Shinji Hashimoto.

Speaking at Comic-Con in Thiland, as translated by Mognet Central, Hashimoto said he didn't expect the deal to become news.

"Back in 2001, Square Enix had financial problems and Sony bought our stocks. Now, the situation is reversed. Since then, we have had good support from our customers for our products, so Square Enix is back on its legs," he explained.

"But Sony has declined. The presidents of both companies had negotiation and resulted as everyone knew. We did not have argument. Since Sony once helped us, it was time we helped Sony back."

Hashimoto was asked whether Final fantasy 15 and Kingdom Hearts 3 will be on show at E3 2014, but said the publisher is keeping that a secret. It seems pretty likely since both showed up last year, though.

Thanks, Gematsu.