How Genting bought Jho Low’s superyacht – linked to Malaysian 1MDB scandal – for US$126 million
- The casino and theme park offered the highest bid for the seized vessel, Equanimity, which was originally bought by the fugitive businessman for US$250 million
Fugitive Malaysian financier Jho Low’s luxurious superyacht, Equanimity, which is linked to a multibillion-dollar scandal at Malaysia’s state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), has finally been sold.
Casino and theme park operator Genting Malaysia Berhad bought the yacht on Wednesday for US$126 million, Tommy Thomas, Malaysia’s Attorney General, said on Wednesday.
This is about half the original price of US$250 million, and less than the Malaysian government’s minimum asking price of US$130 million.
The 91-metre (300-foot) yacht can reportedly sleep up to 22 guests and 31 crew, and has an interior clad in marble and gold leaf. It boasts a cinema, gym, spa, 20-metre swimming pool, lift and helipad.
Equanimity was among assets allegedly bought by Low and his associates with money taken from the fund, US and Malaysian officials have said.
Low, who has repeatedly maintained his innocence, faces charges including money laundering in Malaysia.
He has been charged in absentia amid suspicions that he is hiding out in China.
Check out a timeline of how the now-notorious superyacht went from its days as Low’s “party” boat to being sold at auction.