ThyssenKrupp Group Bundle
Who Owns ThyssenKrupp Group?
The ownership of a major industrial entity like ThyssenKrupp is a complex tapestry woven from historical foundations and modern investment. Formed from the 1999 merger of Thyssen AG and Krupp, the company's lineage stretches back to the 19th century, with roots in steel production and industrial innovation.
Understanding the stakeholders behind this industrial giant is key to grasping its strategic direction and market performance. As of August 2025, its market capitalization hovers between $6.35 billion and $6.96 billion USD, indicating significant global reach.
The ownership structure of ThyssenKrupp AG is characterized by a significant presence of institutional investors and a notable stake held by the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation. This foundation, established in 1968, holds approximately 21% of the company's shares, playing a crucial role in its governance and long-term stability. The remaining shares are distributed among a diverse group of public shareholders, including other institutional investors and individual investors, reflecting its status as a publicly traded entity. This blend of foundational ownership and public float influences its strategic decisions, including its involvement in sectors like automotive components and materials services, as detailed in a ThyssenKrupp Group PESTEL Analysis.
Who Founded ThyssenKrupp Group?
The foundational ownership of the modern ThyssenKrupp Group is deeply intertwined with the histories of its two primary predecessor companies: Thyssen AG and Fried. Krupp AG Hoesch-Krupp. These entities, established in the 19th century, laid the groundwork for the industrial conglomerate that exists today.
| Company | Founder | Year Founded | Initial Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried. Krupp AG | Friedrich Carl Krupp | 1811 | Cast steel factory |
| Thyssen & Co. | August Thyssen | 1871 | Iron production |
Fried. Krupp AG, founded by Friedrich Carl Krupp, remained under strong family control for generations. Following Friedrich Alfred Krupp's death in 1903, his daughter Bertha inherited the company, which was then converted into a stock corporation.
August Thyssen established Thyssen & Co. in 1871, rapidly expanding from iron into steel and integrating raw material control. His early ownership was absolute, reflecting the founder-centric model of the era.
Bertha Krupp married Gustav von Bohlen und Halbach in 1906, who then added 'Krupp' to his surname. He managed the company, ensuring continued family influence over its operations and strategic direction.
Both predecessor companies pursued vertical integration. Thyssen & Co. expanded into controlling raw materials, while Krupp focused on steel production, laying the groundwork for diversified industrial operations.
The concentrated ownership in the early stages of both companies allowed for long-term strategic planning and significant reinvestment. This directly shaped their growth trajectories and established their industrial power.
The conversion of Fried. Krupp AG into a stock corporation in 1903 marked a shift, though Bertha Krupp retained nearly all shares. This transition was a precursor to broader ownership structures.
The early ownership structures of the companies that would eventually form ThyssenKrupp were characterized by strong founder or family control. This concentrated ownership model facilitated decisive strategic planning and substantial reinvestment, crucial for the capital-intensive nature of the steel and heavy industry sectors in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Understanding this historical ownership is key to grasping the company's evolution and its Mission, Vision & Core Values of ThyssenKrupp Group.
The foundational ownership of ThyssenKrupp's predecessor companies was marked by distinct characteristics that influenced their development:
- Friedrich Carl Krupp's initial vision for superior domestic steel production.
- The Krupp family's sustained control, including leadership by Therese and Alfred Krupp, and later Bertha Krupp.
- August Thyssen's absolute ownership of his burgeoning steel and coal empire.
- The strategic advantage of concentrated ownership for long-term planning and reinvestment.
- The transition of Fried. Krupp AG to a stock corporation while maintaining significant family shareholding.
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How Has ThyssenKrupp Group’s Ownership Changed Over Time?
The formation of ThyssenKrupp AG in March 1999 through the merger of Thyssen AG and Fried. Krupp AG Hoesch-Krupp significantly reshaped the European industrial landscape. As a publicly traded entity, its ownership is distributed among a global base of investors.
| Shareholder Type | Percentage of Ownership (May 2025) | Voting Rights Percentage (March 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation | Not specified | Approximately 21% |
| Institutional Investors | Approximately 44% | Approximately 74% (including BlackRock Inc. >5%) |
| Retail Investors | Substantial 51% | Not specified |
| Cevian Capital | Not specified | Not specified |
The ownership structure of ThyssenKrupp AG is characterized by a broad distribution, with approximately 250,000 shareholders across roughly 90 countries as of March 2025. The Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation stands as the largest single shareholder, holding about 21% of the voting rights, which contributes to the company's strategic stability. Institutional investors, encompassing asset managers, pension funds, and investment firms, collectively manage around 74% of the voting rights. Notably, BlackRock Inc. alone holds over 5% of these voting rights. Retail investors represent a significant portion of the ownership, accounting for 51% of the capital stock as of May 2025, while institutions hold 44%. Cevian Capital is also recognized as a substantial shareholder, influencing the company's direction. The company's articles of association stipulate that each share carries one vote, meaning voting power generally aligns with the proportion of capital stock held, a key aspect of Growth Strategy of ThyssenKrupp Group.
Understanding ThyssenKrupp's ownership is crucial for grasping its strategic direction and governance. The distribution of shares highlights a balance between foundational stability and market influence.
- The Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation is the largest single shareholder.
- Institutional investors collectively hold a majority of the voting rights.
- Retail investors constitute over half of the company's capital stock ownership.
- Ownership changes can significantly impact the company's strategic decisions.
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Who Sits on ThyssenKrupp Group’s Board?
ThyssenKrupp AG's governance is structured with an Executive Board responsible for management and a Supervisory Board for oversight. As of August 2025, the Supervisory Board comprises 20 members, equally split between shareholder and employee representatives, reflecting Germany's codetermination laws. The Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation holds significant influence as a major shareholder.
| Board Position | Name | Appointment/Role |
|---|---|---|
| CEO | Miguel Ángel López Borrego | June 1, 2023 – May 31, 2031 |
| Executive Board Member | Dr. Volkmar Dinstuhl | January 1, 2024 |
| CFO | Dr. Axel Hamann | May 1, 2025 |
| Executive Board Member | Ilse Henne | January 1, 2024 |
| CHRO and Labor Director | Wilfried von Rath | April 1, 2025 |
| Chairman of the Supervisory Board | Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dr.-Ing. E.h. Siegfried Russwurm |
The voting power within ThyssenKrupp AG is primarily distributed based on share ownership, adhering to a one-share-one-vote principle for common shares. The Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation, with its substantial stake of approximately 21%, wields considerable voting influence in general meetings. This foundation also has the specific right to appoint two of the ten shareholder representatives on the Supervisory Board. There are no publicly disclosed special voting rights or preferential shares that would grant disproportionate control beyond proportional equity holdings, ensuring that ThyssenKrupp ownership is largely tied to direct shareholding. The dynamic between the foundation, other institutional investors, and employee representatives on the Supervisory Board is key to the company's strategic direction and Revenue Streams & Business Model of ThyssenKrupp Group.
The Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation is a pivotal entity in ThyssenKrupp's ownership structure. Its significant stake directly impacts voting outcomes and board composition.
- Foundation holds approximately 21% of ThyssenKrupp shares.
- Foundation can designate 2 out of 10 shareholder representatives on the Supervisory Board.
- Voting power generally follows a one-share-one-vote principle.
- No special voting rights or golden shares are indicated.
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What Recent Changes Have Shaped ThyssenKrupp Group’s Ownership Landscape?
In recent years, ThyssenKrupp has navigated significant strategic realignments and portfolio adjustments. A key development in fiscal year 2023/2024 was the agreement in April 2024 to divest a 20% stake in its Steel Europe segment to EP Corporate Group (EPCG), owned by Daniel Křetínský. This transaction, finalized in July 2024, paves the way for a 50:50 joint venture in the steel business, aligning with ThyssenKrupp's strategy for resilient and climate-conscious steel production.
| Development | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Europe Stake Sale | April 2024 Agreement, July 2024 Completion | 20% interest sold to EP Corporate Group, aiming for a 50:50 joint venture. |
| Marine Systems (TKMS) Spin-off | Planned | Intention to list 49% of the division, retaining majority ownership. |
| Debt Repayment | February 2025 | Last outstanding bond repaid, significantly reducing bank and capital market debt. |
The company is also progressing with the planned spin-off of its Marine Systems (TKMS) division. ThyssenKrupp intends to list 49% of this profitable marine division on the stock exchange while maintaining a majority stake. Furthermore, ThyssenKrupp has prioritized its financial health, successfully repaying its final outstanding bond in February 2025, thereby largely freeing the group from bank and capital market debt. This strategic repositioning is a critical part of the company's ongoing transformation, as exemplified by programs like APEX 2.0, designed to enhance performance and address structural challenges across its various segments. These moves reflect broader industry trends focused on portfolio optimization and consolidation, emphasizing core, profitable business areas amidst global economic uncertainties.
A 20% stake in Steel Europe was sold in July 2024. The goal is to establish a 50:50 joint venture for the steel business.
ThyssenKrupp plans to list 49% of its Marine Systems division. This move recognizes the division's profitability.
The company repaid its last bond in February 2025. This significantly reduces its debt burden.
Despite a net loss of €1.51 billion in fiscal year 2024, a return to profit is anticipated. Expected net income for fiscal year 2024/2025 is between €100 million and €500 million.
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