Originally Posted by Supersonic Swinger (Post 20978734)

They don't need to:

- SQ currently owns 49% of VS. Whilst it does not give them control of the operational decisions of VS, it gives them board representation and the ability to block key strategic decisions made by VS, including who they enter into JVs with

Originally Posted by ND76 (Post 20978906)

One would have to speculate that Singapore Air did not want to break up its holding to sell to a number of buyers, as this would have reduced the value of its holding. Therefore, they must have taken the view that a potential buyer had to buy the entire 49% or nothing at all. In other words, Delta was probably faced with the following choice: if you want to have equity ownership in Virgin Atlantic, either buy our 49% or walk away.

Originally Posted by Deadtail (Post 20979082)

Singapore has it's own financial issues and couldn't turn down hundreds of millions of dollars for their stake in a money losing venture. I seriously doubt Delta ever engaged Singapore in a less than 49% discussion.

Delta wanted the JV to London while also having the size and network to help fill VS planes with traffic both ways. A win win for both and a venture that should prove profitable in a short time.

Originally Posted by dieuwer2 (Post 20979141)

"Singapore bought its stake in 2000 for £600.3 million ($966 million), but it has been dissatisfied with the returns, analysts said. While Delta had considered buying Singapore’s stake two years ago, the carriers could not agree on a price.

http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2012/12/...-million/?_r=0