Investing by the Books

#58 Staffan Salén on The Salén Story

17 snips
May 28, 2024
Staffan Salén, a prominent Swedish businessman, shares stories about the Salén family's legacy, including the rise and fall of their shipping empire and the success of their investment company. The conversation delves into long-term investing strategies, family dynamics, and diverse book recommendations that have impacted Salén's mindset.
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ANECDOTE

Humble Start To Shipping Empire

  • Sven Salén bought sailing ships during WWI and shifted into banana trading, which built the family's early wealth.
  • He later moved into tanker and dry bulk shipping and compounded success by waiting and reinvesting.
INSIGHT

Delegation Built Leadership Fast

  • The Salén culture emphasized delegation, youthful responsibility and allowed mistakes as learning moments.
  • That culture created fast leadership development and enduring employee networks across generations.
ANECDOTE

Crisis From Cyclical Shipping Overcapacity

  • The 1970s oil shock and global shipyard overcapacity crushed freight rates and sank shipping profitability for Salén.
  • The group ordered ULCCs that went into layup and financial strain led to listing and eventual collapse in 1984.
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