Aston Martin owners considering stock market sale: reports ~ station of gear

James Brodie 2017-12-18 11:21

Aston Martin's main owners are considering floating the company on the stock market, according to reports

Aston Martin's owners are preparing to list the British sports car marker on the stock market in a bid to cash in on rising sales, according to a report by Reuters.

The news agency cites 'sources familiar with the matter', who claim that Aston's current ownership structure - a group of Kuwaiti investors and the Italian private equity firm Investindustrial who own more than 90 per cent of the marque combined - have hired investment bank Lazard to work on a 'preliminary plan'.

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That plan could either result in an initial public offering (IPO) in the third or fourth quarter of 2018, or a trade sale to a separate car manufacturer, according to two sources that have spoken to Reuters.

A move to float Aston Martin on the stock market would follow in the footsteps of Ferrari, which was publicly listed in 2015.

Italian firm Investindustrial acquired a 37.5 per cent stake in Aston Martin early in 2013 with a £150m investment, and is thought to be driving the plans forward. Reuters' sources have stressed that no final decision has been taken, and that Aston's current investors could decide to retain control.

When approached for comment by Auto Express, an Aston Martin spokesperson replied: "Any IPO for Aston Martin would be at the sole discretion of our shareholders. The management team is focused on delivering our annual and medium-term business commitments under our Second Century plan."

Should Aston's ownership look to float the company on the stock market? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.

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