Latham & Watkins LLP, a premier global law firm, has successfully advised Permira, a leading investment firm, on its acquisition of a minority stake in RightShip, the pioneering maritime digital platform. This strategic investment underscores a shared commitment to enhancing maritime safety, sustainability, and transparency across global supply chains.

RightShip, established in 2001, has been at the forefront of integrating digital solutions in the maritime sector, focusing on critical issues such as environmental sustainability and operational safety. The platform leverages advanced technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) to provide comprehensive risk analytics, emissions scoring, and due diligence services to the shipping industry worldwide.

The recent investment by Permira marks a significant milestone in RightShip’s journey, emphasizing its technology-driven growth strategy and its mission to achieve zero harm in maritime operations. Steen Lund, CEO of RightShip, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “This investment is a strong endorsement of our strategy and impact. With Permira’s global scale and expertise, and the continued support of our founding shareholders, we will accelerate investment in our products, data, AI, and people to grow RightShip’s relevance and reach – enhancing our mission of zero harm to people and the planet.”

From Permira’s perspective, the investment is not just a financial venture but a partnership aimed at fostering innovation within the maritime industry. Daniel Tan, Partner at Permira, highlighted the critical role of RightShip in the sector: “RightShip plays a critical role in improving safety and transparency in the maritime industry. The Company’s services and data offerings come together on its AI-powered platform to bring deeper insights, better decision-making, and workflow automation to key stakeholders. Innovation thrives at RightShip – as product-first growth investors, we are delighted to partner with management and existing shareholders on this exciting journey.”

The transaction, expected to close in the coming months pending regulatory approvals, sees BHP, Cargill, and Rio Tinto retaining equal stakes in RightShip. Rothschild & Co served as the financial advisor to RightShip and its shareholders during this deal.

The cross-border team from Latham & Watkins was led by Singapore corporate partner Amy Beckingham, supported by associates from across the firm’s global offices, including Elisabeth Su-Li Ong and Shi Cheng Chong in Singapore, Benjamin Han in Tokyo, Aster Lin in Hong Kong, and Alex Park in Seoul. Their expertise in corporate, tax, and due diligence matters was crucial in facilitating this complex transaction.

Permira’s strategic investment in RightShip is poised to enhance the latter’s global impact, driving forward its ambitious goals of safety and sustainability in the maritime industry, and setting a benchmark for future investments in maritime technology innovations.