An investment fund led by financier Yoshiaki Murakami has become the top stockholder of department store operator Matsuzakaya Co. with a 5.46 percent stake, Matsuzakaya officials said Saturday.

The Murakami Fund's stake exceeds the 5.2 percent stake held by Dai-ichi Mutual Life Insurance Co., the previous largest shareholder, they said.

The officials said there has been no contact from the Murakami Fund but added the department store operator is willing to hold talks.

The Murakami Fund was the fourth-biggest Matsuzakaya shareholder at the end of August with a 3.14 percent stake.