Yangzijiang Financial Holding is calling for an EGM to seek shareholders' approval to diversify into new business areas tapping on the expertise and connections of executive chairman Ren Yuanlin within the broader maritime industry.

 

YFH now focuses on various kinds of investment activities including fund management and debt financing. Borrowers include those in the property and non-maritime sectors.

 

According to an EGM circular, YFH wants shareholders' go-ahead to move into a broader range of maritime-related activities including financing leases, operating leases, ship agency and shipbroking services.

 

It may conduct direct finance leases and also sale-and-leasebacks of vessels.

 

YFH, with 40.1% of its assets in cash and yield products, plans to offer loans and other financing services such as pre-delivery loans for parties within the shipping industry.

 

YFH also wants a more direct involvement in the maritime business by forming joint ventures with operating partners and acquiring new or existing ships.

 

The company is eyeing the ship trading business too - import and export of ships, equipment, parts and materials.

 

YFH, which was spun off Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, explains that the diversification can help it tap on existing relationships with customers and banks in China and generate additional revenue streams.