Magna has emerged as the front-runner in the bidding to grab a significant stake in the Chrysler Group, according to several industry analysts, according to a number of media reports.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


“We now believe there is increased likelihood that MGA could take a direct minority ownership stake in Chrysler,” KeyBanc Capital Markets analyst Brett Hoselton wrote Friday in a note to investors, AP reported.


The report added that Magna also appears to be the favoured bidder for Chrysler’s powerful unions, which control just less than half the votes on parent company DaimlerChrysler AG’s supervisory board.


“They’ve been the suitor du jour for the last couple of weeks now,” said George Magliano, an auto analyst at consulting company Global Insight, AP reported.


Hoselton said in his note that the United Auto Workers union has approached Magna with a framework for a concession package that would move the deal along.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Officials with the UAW, Magna and DaimlerChrysler would not comment on the reports, AP said.


UAW President Ron Gettelfinger has said he prefers to keep Chrysler with Daimler, and he has strongly opposed any sale to private equity firms, which he said would sell off Chrysler in pieces and cost union members their jobs.


See also: Magna the self-styled Tier 0.5

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now