Finance

KKR-backed OHB taps banks for share sale, Bloomberg News reports

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on March 25, 2026

2 min read

· Last updated: April 1, 2026

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KKR-backed OHB taps banks for share sale, Bloomberg News reports
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March 25 (Reuters) - German satellite maker OHB is working on a share sale, potentially allowing minority investor KKR to reduce its stake, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday. A deal could value OHB

KKR-Backed German Satellite Maker OHB Plans Share Sale; Key Banks Involved

OHB Share Sale Plans and Market Context

March 25 (Reuters) - German satellite maker OHB is working on a share sale, potentially allowing minority investor KKR to reduce its stake, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday.

Potential Valuation and Stakeholders

A deal could value OHB at slightly above its market value, which was about 5.5 billion euros ($6.37 billion) as of last close, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

Ownership Structure

Germany's Fuchs family, which owns around 65% of OHB, and KKR, which owns roughly 29%, are discussing a sale of new and existing shares equivalent to 20% of the company, the report said.

KKR's Future Involvement

KKR plans to keep a significant holding after a transaction, according to the report. KKR acquired its minority stake in OHB in 2024, with the Fuchs family retaining permanent control of the company.

Key Banks and Timeline

Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan have been chosen as global coordinators of the offering, which could take place as soon as this year, the report said.

Responses and Verification

The banks, OHB and KKR did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Reuters could not independently verify the report.

Recent Financial Performance

Last week, OHB reported a 21% jump in its 2025 revenue, driven by strong demand for satellite systems and launcher components as European governments bolster their defence and strategic space capabilities.

Exchange Rate Information

($1 = 0.8636 euros)

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Heera Hari in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)

Key Takeaways

  • OHB is exploring a share offering of new and existing shares amounting to about 20% of the company, possibly allowing KKR to partially exit while retaining a meaningful holding. Bloomberg first reported the development. (Reuters / Bloomberg)
  • OHB’s implied valuation in this potential transaction is slightly above its recent market cap of ~€5.5 billion (~$6.37 billion), indicating modest premium expectations.
  • The Fuchs family, holding around 65%, continues to control OHB; KKR, with approximately 29% currently, would still maintain a significant share post-transaction.
  • Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan have been appointed as global coordinators for the offering, which could occur later this year.
  • OHB’s strong fundamentals — including a 21% revenue increase in 2025 and a growing order backlog exceeding €3 billion — support investor interest amid rising demand for satellite systems tied to European defense and strategic space initiatives.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OHB planning according to Bloomberg News?
OHB is working on a share sale that may allow KKR to reduce its minority stake.
Who are the major shareholders in OHB?
The Fuchs family owns around 65% and KKR owns roughly 29% of OHB.
Which banks are coordinating OHB's share sale?
Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan are serving as global coordinators.
How much could OHB be valued at in the share sale?
The deal could value OHB at slightly above its last close market value of 5.5 billion euros.
What is driving OHB's recent revenue growth?
A 21% jump in 2025 revenue was driven by strong demand for satellite systems and launcher components.

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