The scandal-hit firm this morning issued a statement in response to press reports suggesting it may go forward alone, and not immediately seek a tie-up after all.

In April, Olympus said it had received offers of forming a capital alliance from companies including Sony and Fujifilm.

News agency Reuters today reported that Olympus bosses have decided not to reveal plans for an equity alliance at an upcoming ‘strategy briefing’ next month.

This contradicts speculation that it may have been planning to make an announcement at the meeting, according to Reuters sources.

In response, Olympus Tokyo issued a statement saying: ‘Certain sections of the media have reported today that Olympus Corporation has decided to defer alliance with another company in the immediate future and made a decision to rebuild on its own, which is not announced by the company.

‘The company will immediately disclose any further important information when it comes to light.’

Earlier this month, Olympus recorded an overall net loss of 48.985 billion yen (£382m) for the year to 31 March.

Former CEO Michael Woodford, who blew the whistle on a £1.1 billion accounting cover-up, is due to face Olympus at a tribunal hearing in London next week.

He is suing the firm for unfair dismissal and loss of earnings.