EPCG, the investment vehicle for Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky, acquired 20% of the business, an important step forward in the process of transforming thyssenkrupp Steel Europe toward a full entrepreneurial independence, thyssenkrupp said. 

“The successful closing of EPCG's 20% stake in thyssenkrupp's steel business is an important step toward the independence of the steel business and a resilient, cost-efficient and climate-friendly steel production,” said thyssenkrupp AG chief executive officer Miguel López.“We are pleased to have closed the acquisition of the 20% stake in thyssenkrupp's steel business," he added. 

EPCG and thyssenkrupp are already discussing the sale of an additional 30% stake in thyssenkrupp's steel business, with the aim being to form an equal 50/50 joint venture.