Ford reduces stake in Mazda to 3.5 percent

Mazda confirmed today that it has received notification from FoMoCo that it will transfer transfer part of its shares in Mazda to several of Mazda’s business partners.

“Ford’s current stake in Mazda is 11 percent,” Mazda said in a statement. “After completion of the share transfer, Ford will continue to be one of Mazda’s largest shareholders with a stake of 3.5 percent. In the best interests of Mazda’s stakeholders and other shareholders, the remaining 7.5 percent will be transferred to Mazda’s business partners via off-auction trading through the Tokyo Stock Exchange.”

Ford said that its 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 has been going strong for more than 30 years.

“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,” says Mazda’s Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO, Takashi Yamanouchi. “Mazda and Ford will continue to collaborate on areas of mutual benefit such as key joint ventures, joint projects and exchange of technology information.”

– By: Omar Rana