Wednesday, October 15, 2008

GOPINATH PLANS OFFER TO BUYBACK DECCAN

GR Gopinath, vice-chairman of Kingfisher Airlines, is believed to be considering an offer to buy back Air Deccan as he is reportedly unhappy over the alliance Kingfisher has struck with Jet Airways. Some sources said he might even offer to buy Kingfisher itself at a meeting of the airline board on Wednesday. Some overseas investors are reportedly backing him in this effort. That, however, is not easily possible. For starters, UB Group chairman Vijay Mallya has 65% share in Kingfisher, making it impossible for anyone to make a bid unless he is willing to sell out. He is not. “I spoke to Capt (Gopinath) out of courtesy about the alliance with Jet. He was in Andamans. He said he was happy with the arrangement (with Jet) and the synergistic benefits,” he said. “I hold 65% stake in the airline. If there is a so-called bid, we will see it off when it is made,” Mr Mallya told ET. According to the latest stock exchange filings, Mr Gopinath has 5.58% stake, and may control about 9-10% shareholding along with his associates.

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