Qatar Airways to sell its holdings in Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific for $896 million

Core Viewpoint - Qatar Airways is divesting its 9.57% stake in Cathay Pacific Airways through a share buyback valued at $896 million, marking the end of its eight-year involvement with the airline [1][2]. Group 1: Transaction Details - Qatar Airways will sell all of its holdings in Cathay Pacific, which represents 9.57% of the airline's stock [2]. - The buyback plan is subject to shareholder approval [2]. - Cathay Pacific's shares increased by 4.2% on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange following the announcement [1]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The sale reflects Cathay Pacific's commitment to portfolio management and long-term growth, as stated by its CEO Badr Mohammed al-Meer [3]. - Analysts suggest that Qatar Airways' decision to divest is influenced by its limited strategic influence due to its minority stake [4]. - The transaction consolidates ownership among Cathay's key shareholders, Swire Pacific and Air China, enhancing their strategic control over the airline [4]. Group 3: Historical Context - Qatar Airways acquired its stake in Cathay Pacific in 2017 for approximately $662 million during a period when Cathay was facing financial difficulties [5]. - Cathay Pacific reported a profit of $1.2 billion in the last fiscal year, indicating a significant turnaround from its previous losses [5].