, Singapore

Singapore Airlines to almost double its stake in Virgin Australia

From 10% to a proposed 19.99%.

In a release, Singapore Airlines said it has agreed to acquire another 9.9% of Virgin Australia in a move that will increase its stake to 19.9%.

The strategic stake will be acquired through the purchase of shares held by the Virgin Group. Singapore Airlines will purchase 255.5 million shares at 48 Australian cents per share for a total consideration of A$122.6 million. The purchase is subject to approval from Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).

“Our partnership with Virgin Australia has been going from strength to strength, offering a wide range of consumer benefits,” said Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong.

“Increasing our stake in Virgin Australia is another example of Singapore Airlines’ deep commitment to the important Australian market. It also demonstrates our support for the ongoing transformation of Virgin Australia, which has created a more competitive aviation market in Australia.”

Singapore Airlines acquired 10% of Virgin Australia in late 2012 through an injection of funds in Virgin Australia Holdings.

The two airlines entered into a long-term partnership in 2011, encompassing codesharing, reciprocal frequent-flyer programme benefits and lounge access, coordinated schedules to provide seamless connections, and joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.

Join Singapore Business Review community
A NOTE FROM SINGAPORE BUSINESS REVIEW

If you've been wondering whether SBR could work for your company — yes, probably.

A lot of the companies we partner with started as readers. They'd been following our coverage for a while, saw their own customers and competitors in it, and eventually asked the obvious question: could we do something with you? The answer is usually yes. The shape of it depends on what you're trying to do.


The options are broader than most people assume — thought leadership articles, sponsored content, industry summits across Southeast Asia, regional awards programmes, podcasts, and media placements in print and digital. Some partners use one channel; most use a mix. We figure out the right combination by starting with your brief, not with our rate card.


So if the question has been on your mind, here's the easy way to ask it.

We'll tell you honestly whether we can help, and how. It's a better use of everyone's time.