CMB.TECH buys Hemen stake in Golden Ocean

CMB.TECH NV (“CMB.TECH” or the “Company”) has announces that it has entered into a share purchase agreement with Hemen Holding Limited (“Hemen”), for the acquisition of 81,363,730 shares in Golden Ocean Group Limited (“Golden Ocean”) (representing ca. 40.8% of Golden Ocean’s outstanding shares and votes which includes all Golden Ocean shares controlled by Hemen), at a price of 14.49 USD per share (the “Transaction”). The Transaction will not trigger a mandatory takeover bid or similar offer in Bermuda, Norway, the United States, or any other jurisdiction.

This acquisition is in line with CMB.TECH’s strategic objective of diversification, with the Company intending to become a long-term shareholder in Golden Ocean and investing in a modern dry bulk fleet.

Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH, commented: "The acquisition of the Golden Ocean shares from Hemen represents a significant milestone in CMB.TECH’s diversification strategy. We look forward to engaging with the board, management and employees of Golden Ocean and to build on Golden Ocean’s and Mr. Fredriksen’s strong legacy to drive long-term growth and innovation”.

To the extent the Transaction might impact Golden Ocean’s financing agreements, CMB.TECH has identified a bank syndicate to refinance all or parts of the current outstanding debt in Golden Ocean.