Yangzijiang Financial to spin off shipping investment business

Yangzijiang Financial Holding has moved to spin off its maritime investment undertaking and list it on the Singapore Stock Exchange.

The spinoff of China’s largest private shipyard, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, said the newly incorporated company would function as a dedicated maritime investment platform, focused on “unlocking value across the entire maritime value chain” – from finance leasing and brokerage services to broader investment participation.

The outfit will be led by Yangzijiang Financial’s chairman and CEO, Ren Yuanlin.

“This is a natural evolution of our strategy,” Ren said, adding: “Our maritime business is ready to stand on its own, backed by strong fundamentals and a clear vision for expansion. By separating our maritime segment from Yangzijiang Financial’s investment platform, we will be better positioned to pursue focused growth while delivering enhanced value to shareholders.”

Yangzijiang Financial was separated from its shipbuilding and shipowning parent in 2022 and has since invested in both wet and dry shipping segments.

The shipping investment spinoff should take place in the next six to 12 months, with the remaining group continuing to focus on funds, diversified asset management and investment operations.