#USA #New York #AMTD Group #Inna Bazhenova #Gleb Ibragimov

AMTD Group Launches Legal Proceedings against Inna Bazhenova and Gleb Ibragimov

On January 15, 2026, AMTD Group Inc. made headlines with its announcement of a lawsuit against both Inna Bazhenova and Gleb Ibragimov. This action arises from allegations of intimidation, malicious falsifications, breach of trust, and consequential damages incurred by the company. The case shines a spotlight on tensions following AMTD's acquisition of The Art Newspaper in 2023.

Background of the Acquisition

In 2023, AMTD Group acquired The Art Newspaper from Inna Bazhenova, who at that time made a public statement celebrating the completion of the transaction. The payment for the purchase was fully executed, and the deal was deemed legally solid, involving both cash and restricted shares in publicly listed firms associated with AMTD Group.

These restricted shares were registered under the names of Bazhenova and Ibragimov, who advised Bazhenova on the deal. However, trouble began when, on December 27, 2024, both Bazhenova and Ibragimov filed claims in Hong Kong relating to the transaction, contesting various aspects despite having clear evidence confirming the registration of shares in their names. The independent stock registrar reinforced this registration, leaving their claims questionable.

Court Rulings

The legal saga took a turn when, on June 20, 2025, Hong Kong's Supreme Court dismissed their plea for a property injunction regarding the restricted shares, imposing a hefty cost order of 773,000 HKD against them. Following this, on November 21, 2025, their full series of claims was thrown out by the court, once again ruling that they were to cover the entire legal costs involved.

Recent Developments

In January 2026, Gleb Ibragimov communicated with AMTD Group, allegedly suggesting an inclination to breach the confidentiality agreements set forth in their original deal. In what appears to be a move to exert pressure, he threatened to disclose matters related to the agreement to third parties, including journalists, unless AMTD complied with certain demands regarding the handling of the restricted shares.

These actions led AMTD Group to take the matter even further, reporting the behavior to law enforcement agencies associated with AMTD and The Art Newspaper. With the emergence of these challenges, AMTD Group asserts they have suffered considerable losses and damages stemming from the defendants' actions.

Commitment to Justice

Guided by their legal counsel, Gibson Dunn, AMTD Group is determined to seek out legal remedies against both Bazhenova and Ibragimov in full measure. This legal battle is not just about the financial implications; it underscores AMTD's commitment to promote justice and fairness within the business sphere. The company vows to utilize all possible legal routes to ensure accountability against individuals who engage in malicious and intimidating acts towards AMTD Group and its affiliates.

About AMTD Group

AMTD Group is a diversified conglomerate whose portfolio encompasses various industries, including media, entertainment, education, and premium real estate. With a focus on creating synergies between these sectors, the group positions itself as a forward-thinking player on a global scale.

Investors and the general public are encouraged to keep abreast of this developing story as it unfolds in the courts and continues to shape the landscape of corporate governance and accountability in the industry.