U.S. Progressive Lawmaker Monitoring Big Tech Discloses Sony Stock Purchase

U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (D–TN) disclosed in a February 9 filing that he purchased American Depositary Receipts of Sony Group Corporation (SONY) valued between $1,001 and $15,000 (approximately ₩1.3 million to ₩20 million). As a member of the House Judiciary Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee—bodies that oversee corporate and technology regulation—his investment has prompted fresh scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest and ethical standards.

On February 10, Sony ADRs closed at $22.83, marking a third consecutive day of gains, though they remain roughly 25% below last November’s 52-week high. In its fiscal 2025 third-quarter results announced on February 5, Sony reported double-digit growth in operating profit driven by strong performance in its image sensor, gaming and music divisions. The company also raised its full-year earnings outlook and margin targets—bolstered by the planned spin-off of its financial services arm—to revive investor sentiment.

Cohen, a prominent progressive voice on the Judiciary Committee known for championing civil liberties and cracking down on government surveillance, corporate concentration and abuses of intelligence agencies, faces questions because Sony is a major global platform business built on gaming, music, video streaming and intellectual property. Critics argue that his oversight responsibilities and his personal investment in Sony could create the appearance of a conflict.

Meanwhile, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are advancing proposals—such as a total ban on individual stock trading by members of Congress and enhancements to the STOCK Act—that would tighten restrictions on personal securities transactions. Although Cohen’s stake in Sony is modest, the acquisition of shares in a large multinational that falls squarely within his policy purview is likely to fuel further political debate and public scrutiny over his ethical posture.