HIROSHIMA, Japan -
Ford will be transferring the majority of its shares in Mazda to various business partners of the Japanese automaker, thus lowering its ownership stake. However, the two OEMs will remain strategic partners, according to Mazda.
Currently, Ford has 11 percent ownership stake in Mazda. Ford will hold on to a 3.5-percent stake in the automaker and is transferring the rest of its shares to Mazda’s business partners.
This transfer will be conducted during off-auction trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, officials explained.
Mazda also emphasized that neither its business director nor financial projections will be altered by this ownership shift.
The change is slated to happen today.
“Ford will remain one of Mazda’s largest shareholders with a 3.5- percent stake, and both companies are committed to continuing our strategic partnership which spans over 30 years,” stated Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s representative director and chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer.
“Mazda and Ford will continue to collaborate on areas of mutual benefit such as key joint ventures, joint projects and exchange of technology information,” Yamanouchi added.
A statement from Ford revealed: “Ford said the decision to reduce its ownership stake in Mazda allows it to increase flexibility as it continues to pursue growth in key emerging markets. Ford said it plans to remain one of Mazda’s largest shareholders and remains committed to its strategic partnership with Mazda, which spans more than 30 years.
“Ford and Mazda will continue to cooperate in areas of mutual benefits such as key joint ventures and exchange of technology information, Ford said.”