Ford to sell most of its remaining stake in Mazda

Media reports in Japan indicate that most of Ford Motor Co.’s remaining stake in Mazda Motor Corp. will be sold to trading house Itochu Corp. and general contractor Kajima Corp.

These two companies are included in the nearly 10 firms that will purchase shares. According to a report from the Nikkei business daily, talks with potential buyers were concluded last Tuesday. Ford is seeking to sell its stake to achieve more flexibility in its Chinese operations.
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nguyenvuminh - 11/18/2010 9:15:08 PM

+1 Boost

I find this curious. When companies are trying to partner up (on a project basis or on a share cross holding basis) Ford is separating its way with Mazda. Mazda is not bleeding money nor is Mazda shares going through the roof so it's not a financial thing. Does Ford consider Mazda's upcoming technology/platform not a contributing factor in the future? Last thing is what does the "achieve more flexibility in its Chinese operation..." mean anyway? Is this out of fear of political backlash from Chinese Gov't or is it a case of raising cash to expand its Chinese operation?

91z4me - 11/19/2010 7:50:06 AM

+1 Boost

It is like closing Mercury, Ford is concentrating on core FORD & Lincoln product. Although I always like Mazda and hoped they stay a part of Ford.

MorePower - 11/20/2010 11:09:29 PM

+1 Boost

Could be a great opportunity for Mazda to separate itself from the perceived baggage of Ford. Of course this does not mean that there will not be platform sharing between the two companies. I'm sure Ford will follow MB and structure the sale so that the new owner/investor will be forced to use certain platforms for a determined amount of time.