China's Alibaba says will not join Ant Group share buyback

China's Alibaba Group (9988.HK) said on Sunday it had decided not to participate in affiliate Ant Group's proposed repurchase of shares, but would maintain its shareholding in the company.

Ant Group announced a surprise share buyback of up to 7.6% of its equity interest earlier this month, a day after it was fined $984 million by Beijing for violating laws and regulations.

Online retail giant Alibaba, which spun off Ant 12 years ago retains a 33% stake.