Shipping magnate John Fredriksen has secured the position of the top investor in Edda Wind, following Norwegian shipowner Østensjø’s divestment of all its shares in the company for NOK 521.8 million ($47 million).
According to disclosures made to Oslo Bors, Østensjø, via its subsidiary Østensjø Wind, sold its entire stake in Edda Wind, relinquishing its ownership and rights to shares in the company. The transaction, priced at NOK 24.50 per share, saw Fredriksen’s Geveran Trading acquire nearly 10.3 million shares, while Wilhelmsen New Energy and EPS Ventures.
Following the completion of the sale, Geveran Trading will hold a commanding 31.03% stake in Edda Wind, with Wilhelmsen and EPS Ventures possessing stakes of 31.02% and 20.09%, respectively.
Edda Wind, originally founded by Østensjø, underwent divestment from the company and was subsequently listed on the stock exchange in 2021, with Østensjø retaining a significant shareholding. Notably, Fredriksen and Idan Ofer were early investors in Edda Wind, gaining board seats upon the company’s initial public offering. Fredriksen further bolstered his investment in Edda Wind by acquiring an additional 2 million shares in October last year.
This strategic maneuver underscores Fredriksen’s growing influence in the renewable energy sector, particularly in offshore wind, positioning himself at the forefront of an industry poised for significant growth in the coming years.
