The ending of Frontline’s pursuit of rival Euronav raises the question of principal shareholder John Fredriksen’s next move to consolidate the tanker sector.
The failed combination with the Belgian shipowner makes it 0-for-5 in big takeover deals over the last two decades for shipping’s most famous name, following opposition from Euronav’s biggest shareholder the Saverys family.
The tycoon has also failed to clinch deals involving US-listed owners Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), DHT Holdings, General Maritime and its successor, Gener8 Maritime, in the last 20 years.
