Mercedes-Benz Exits Nissan Stake as Nissan Faces Major Restructuring

Mercedes-Benz has sold its entire 3.8% stake in Nissan Motor Co., valued at approximately ¥47.83 billion ($324.65 million), marking a significant shift in the relationship between the two automakers. The shares were sold at ¥341.3 each, representing a 5.98% discount to Nissan’s previous closing price. This divestment led to a 6% drop in Nissan's stock—the largest one-day decline since early July.

A Mercedes-Benz spokesperson stated that the Nissan stake, held in its pension trust since 2016, was not of strategic importance and that the sale was part of routine portfolio management. The transaction saw strong demand, with the top ten investors acquiring about 70% of the shares.

This move comes at a challenging time for Nissan, which reported a loss of ¥115.8 billion ($535 million) for the quarter ending June 2025. The company has been grappling with declining sales in key markets such as the U.S. and China, as well as the impact of U.S. tariffs.

In response to these challenges, CEO Ivan Espinosa, who took the helm in April 2025, has initiated a comprehensive restructuring plan aimed at restoring profitability. The plan includes reducing global production capacity from 3.5 million to 2.5 million vehicles and decreasing the number of manufacturing sites from 17 to 10 by fiscal year 2027. Additionally, Nissan plans to eliminate approximately 20,000 jobs globally, representing about 15% of its workforce.

Espinosa emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Nissan must prioritize self-improvement with greater urgency and speed." The restructuring plan also involves exploring the sale of stakes in key subsidiaries and other assets to raise over £5 billion. Furthermore, Nissan aims to accelerate product development, with goals to bring new car models to market within 37 months and offshoot models in 30 months.

The divestment by Mercedes-Benz underscores the evolving dynamics between the two automakers. In early 2021, Nissan sold its 1.5% stake in Mercedes-Benz (then Daimler AG) to address financial challenges. This reciprocal divestment reflects the shifting alliances within the automotive industry.

The sale also raises questions about investor confidence in Nissan's recovery prospects. Renault, which holds a 35.7% stake in Nissan, is reportedly considering reducing its stake, further complicating Nissan's strategic landscape.

As Nissan continues to implement its turnaround plan, the company faces significant challenges in regaining profitability and market share. The divestment by Mercedes-Benz serves as a stark reminder of the pressures facing the Japanese automaker in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving industry.