Liverpool Cruise Port operator Global Ports Holding plc, confirmed on Monday it is considering a possible “take private” cash offer from its controlling shareholder Global Investments Holding which would see it delisted from the London Stock Exchange.

Global Ports Holding is the the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, operating 32 cruise ports in 19 countries.

Global Investments Holding (GIH) said: “GIH as the controlling shareholder is convinced of the merits of moving the business into private ownership and intends to seek delisting of the company and taking it private.

“Although as a standard listed company delisting can be implemented through a decision by the board of directors of the company and neither a shareholder vote nor a squeeze-out is required, GIH is considering a possible cash offer of US$3.00 per share, to be implemented by GIH’s wholly owned subsidiary, Global Ports Holding B.V. (Bidco), for the issued and to be issued share capital of the company not already owned by Bidco, as a liquidity opportunity in conjunction with the delisting.

“GIH and Bidco are in discussions with potential providers of funding. There can be no certainty that an offer will be made.

“Under Rule 2.6(a) of the Code, Bidco must, by no later than 5.00pm on 12 July 2024, either announce a firm intention to make an offer for the company in accordance with Rule 2.7 of the Code, or announce that it does not intend to make an offer, in which case the announcement will be treated as a statement to which Rule 2.8 of the Code applies …”

Global Ports Holding said: “An indicative non-binding proposal has been received by the board of GPH, which will consider GIH’s proposal with its advisers.

“A further announcement will be made if and when appropriate. ”

In April, Global Ports Holding announced it signed a 50-year agreement with Peel Ports Group subsidiary, The Mersey Docks and Harbour Company Ltd, to operate cruise services at Liverpool Cruise Port.