Summary:
eFishery founders suspended due to financial irregularities
CEO Gibran Huzaifah faces investigation over financial risk reporting
First startup in aquaculture to reach $1 billion valuation
Aqua-Spark holds 20% stake, valued at $284 million
Plans for expansion in Asia and South America
Shocking Leadership Changes at eFishery
The founders of eFishery, Gibran Huzaifah and Chrisna Aditya, have been suspended by the startup’s board following serious allegations of financial irregularities. This news was first reported by Deal Street Asia, which cited an official communication to shareholders.
Investigation Details
Huzaifah, the CEO, is under investigation for issues related to financial risk reporting concerning the company's performance and revenue. Meanwhile, Aditya, the Chief Product Officer, will also step down from his position. Both founders own approximately 9% of eFishery.
A Setback for a Rising Star
This turmoil comes as a significant setback for eFishery, which recently became the first startup in the global aquaculture industry to achieve a valuation exceeding USD$1 billion in July 2023, following a $200 million Series D investment round.
Major Shareholder Insights
Aqua-Spark is eFishery's largest shareholder, holding nearly 20% of the company, valued at $284 million. The implications of this leadership change may affect investor confidence and the company's future direction.
eFishery's Mission and Expansion Plans
Founded in 2013 in Indonesia, eFishery utilizes data and technology through its IoT smart feeder device to enhance farming operations for smallholder fish and shrimp farmers. The insights gained from this data help improve productivity and access to affordable feed and financing.
Initially focused on Indonesian fish farmers, eFishery has expanded into the shrimp sector and has plans for further expansion across Asia and into South America. The current leadership shakeup raises questions about the company's trajectory moving forward.
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