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Skipping a generation: Lessons from the late Nippon Paint tycoon’s inheritance play
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The late Mr Goh Cheng Liang was among Singapore's richest, according to Forbes' ranking.
PHOTO: SHIN MIN DAILY NEWS
- The late Nippon Paint tycoon Goh Cheng Liang transferred Nipsea shares worth over $10 billion to six grandchildren, while his son Goh Hup Jin retains control with 90.9% voting rights.
- Experts note that this succession strategy is unusual, but not illogical, and has its pros and cons under different circumstances.
- They add that it is important for anyone planning succession to communicate openly with family members involved and nurture a sense of shared purpose.
AI generated
SINGAPORE – Months before Nippon Paint tycoon Goh Cheng Liang died at the age of 98 in August 2025, the future of his multi-billion-dollar empire was already mapped out.
Regulatory filings by Nippon Paint show that by December 2024, the shares of its parent company, Nipsea International, had been transferred to six individuals – later revealed to be six of Mr Goh’s eight grandchildren. Together, they hold one billion shares worth over $10 billion.
