Sony responded to a shareholder's call for it to spin off its entertainment operations, saying that its entertainment businesses remain important to its growth strategy. The statement came after hedge fund Third Point proposed Sony to sell part of its entertainment division via an IPO to bolster the electronics group's profitability.

Sony Entertainment includes one of Hollywood's leading film studios and one of the world's biggest music labels.

Third Point said it would put up 150-200 billion yen ($1.5-$2 billion) to support a public offering for Sony Entertainment.

Third Point said it is the largest owner of Sony, holding shares worth 115 billion yen ($1.13 billion).