Kingstone Capital AG Completes Withdrawal from Joint Venture with Berlin Dental Fund

In a pivotal move for its business strategy, Kingstone Capital AG, based in Switzerland, has officially exited its joint venture with the Versorgungswerk der Zahnärzte Berlin (VZB), effectively reshaping its operational landscape. This significant transition occurred on June 30, 2026, following the acquisition of its UAE subsidiary by Gravity Capital, thus concluding the prior partnership with VZB.

The UAE entity previously held a 70.3% stake in Grand Metropolitan Hotels Holding B.V. in the Netherlands, which served as an investment platform for the joint venture. With Gravity Capital now assuming ownership, this marks a new chapter in the management and direction of the hotel group.

Martin R. Smura, the Founder and Chairman of Grand Metropolitan Hotels, stated, "When we established the joint venture, we were confident in our partnership with VZB. However, recent developments have shown that continuing this collaboration was no longer feasible." He emphasized that the decision to separate was driven by a prolonged deadlock in cooperation and the failure of various corrective measures proposed by stakeholders, which included reciprocal share acquisitions and capital increases.

As of the conclusion of the transaction, the directors and supervisory board members of the former Grand Metropolitan Hotels Holding B.V. have resigned, relinquishing any rights associated with the name 'Grand Metropolitan.' The entity will now operate under the brand name Gravity Capital Hospitality.

According to the new structure, Kingstone Capital Holding AG will persist as a strategic investor in the Grand Metropolitan Hotels Group, continuing to support the brand's global expansion independently of the now-dissolved joint venture.

This transition also aligns with Gravity Capital’s broader investment strategy focusing on technology-driven business sectors, including software solutions and hospitality, following its acquisition of a majority stake in multiple hotel technology companies, such as Genesis AI and Room Hub. Moreover, Gravity Capital has scheduled the announcement of an exclusive negotiation for acquiring another hotel-related affiliation venture in September 2026.

Grand Metropolitan Hotels now looks forward to a future of independent growth and development in the hospitality market, emphasizing its commitment to a light-asset strategy that maximizes brand management and franchising opportunities. The group leverages investments from Kingstone Capital Holding AG, reinforcing its capacity to expand its international footprint.

In summary, the completion of this transaction signifies not only the end of a complex partnership but also the beginning of a new strategic era for both Kingstone Capital and Grand Metropolitan Hotels. By refocusing its efforts and resources, the group is prepared to embark on the next phase of its international growth strategy, offering innovative hospitality solutions backed by a solid financial foundation.