Ferretti Group plans acquisition and share buyback in 2025

Italian yacht maker Ferretti Group’s chief executive has confirmed that the company is planning an acquisition in 2025, with three potential targets currently under evaluation.

In a meeting with media on Monday (10 March 2025), CEO Alberto Galassi confirmed the group’s intention to expand, calling 2025 “the year of opportunities.”

Ferretti, which controls seven yachting brands, including Riva, Wally and Ferretti Yachts, had a net cash position of €125m at the end of December. While Galassi did not specify whether the target would be a brand, shipyard, or another type of asset, he indicated that at least one deal is expected to be finalised within the first half of the year.

The company is also considering a share buyback, with the board of directors evaluating the repurchase of up to 10 per cent of Ferretti’s shares. This move, previously restricted by Hong Kong Stock Exchange regulations, is now being reassessed following regulatory changes. Galassi highlighted that, if executed, it could strengthen stock value and corporate control.

Meanwhile, speculation continues around the stake held by Chinese conglomerate Weichai, Ferretti’s largest shareholder, which currently owns 37.5 per cent of the company. Weichai had previously reduced its stake from 89 per cent following Ferretti’s dual listing in Milan. During the media event, Galassi stated that he had no knowledge of any plans by Weichai to decrease its holding further.

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Reports have also linked French luxury giant LVMH to a potential interest in Ferretti, particularly in its Riva brand. However, Galassi denied any official discussions, saying, “We knew nothing about it,” while acknowledging that a collaboration with LVMH would be prestigious. No negotiations are currently known to be underway regarding LVMH entering Ferretti’s shareholder structure.

For the months ahead, Galassi says Ferretti is focused on growth, with its acquisition plans targeting businesses complementary to its composite yachts and made-to-measure yachts segments. Galassi noted that the first quarter of 2025 has shown promising results and reaffirmed the company’s ambition to complete a significant acquisition before the end of the year.