Fairfax India Expands Stake in Bangalore International Airport

Fairfax India to Enhance Investment in Bangalore Airport

Toronto-based Fairfax India Holdings Corporation, known for its strategic investment choices, is taking significant steps to boost its presence in the Indian aviation sector. Instead of merely being a passive investor, the company is set to acquire an additional 10% equity interest in Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), one of India’s key infrastructure projects, from Siemens Project Ventures GmbH.

Details of the Acquisition Agreement

This acquisition agreement comes as part of Fairfax India's ambitious strategy to increase its ownership in BIAL from 64% to a commanding 74%. The additional stake will be comprised of 30.4% directly held by Fairfax India’s wholly-owned subsidiary and 43.6% through Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited. Meanwhile, the state-owned Airports Authority of India and Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation's stake will remain at 13% each, ensuring a stable public-private partnership dynamic.

Financial Aspects of the Deal

The total purchase price for this additional equity interest is pegged at approximately $255 million. Fairfax India plans to execute this payment in three installments, beginning with an initial payment on the closing date of this transaction, expected in the first quarter of 2025. The subsequent payments are scheduled for later dates in 2025 and 2026. As with any strategic financial maneuver, this transaction will be subject to shareholder approval, third-party consents, and other customary closing conditions.

BIAL: A Key Player in Indian Aviation

BIAL operates under a concession agreement with the Indian government that extends until 2068, granting it exclusive rights for development, maintenance, and operation of the Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB). This airport is notable for being the first greenfield airport in India developed through a public-private partnership, making it a pioneering project in the aviation sector.

Fairfax's Confidence in BIAL's Growth

Prem Watsa, founder of Fairfax India, expressed gratitude towards Siemens for the fruitful partnership since initiating their investment in BIAL back in 2017. Watsa emphasized that this additional investment reaffirms Fairfax India's confidence in BIAL's robust growth potential and praised the management's ability to leverage extensive opportunities.

Future Shareholder Meetings

To finalize this increased investment, Fairfax India plans to convene a special shareholder meeting in January 2025. Shareholders will receive a management circular detailing the transaction and voting procedures ahead of the meeting. Such transparent communication underlines Fairfax India's commitment to keeping its investors well-informed and involved in significant company decisions.

Overview of Fairfax India Holdings Corporation

Fairfax India operates as an investment holding company specializing in long-term capital appreciation through investments in Indian businesses, whether public or private. Focused on maintaining and growing its capital, Fairfax India has carved a niche in the investment landscape, particularly emphasizing partnerships and projects that thrive on the Indian subcontinent.

Contact Information for Inquiries

For more information regarding this investment, interested parties can reach out to John Varnell, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Fairfax India, at (416) 367-4755.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fairfax India's recent investment move?

Fairfax India is acquiring an additional 10% equity in Bangalore International Airport Limited, increasing its stake to 74%.

Why is this investment significant?

This move exemplifies Fairfax India's confidence in the growth prospects of the Indian aviation sector and BIAL's management.

When is the transaction expected to close?

The transaction is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2025, pending shareholder approval.

What is BIAL's role in Indian aviation?

BIAL operates Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, the first greenfield airport in India developed through a public-private partnership.

How can stakeholders get more information?

Shareholders will receive detailed communications about the transaction, and inquiries can be directed to corporate affairs for further clarification.

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