Ukrainian entrepreneur Maksym Krippa continues to systematically strengthen his position in key segments of the capital’s real estate market. His assets already include such iconic Kyiv properties as the Parus business center and the Ukraine hotel. At the same time, he remains an active player in the IT, gaming, and esports sectors. Now, another large-scale property is joining his sphere of interests — the International Exhibition Center (IEC).
According to a decision by the Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine dated May 22, Citadel Ventures Cyprus Limited has been granted permission to acquire a 50.04% stake in International Exhibition Center LLC. This stake was previously owned by A.T.V.T. Business Expo Holdings Ltd and paves the way for a change in control of the property.
According to data from the YouControl register, Citadel Ventures is linked to Maksym Krippa, who is its ultimate beneficiary. Thus, the new agreement effectively allows him to participate in the management of the country’s largest exhibition complex for the first time. This move indicates a continuation of his strategy to strengthen his influence over Kyiv’s most important infrastructure facilities.
IEC from the inside: assets, income, and key ownership indicators
The International Exhibition Center, located on the left bank of Kyiv, has long been an important part of the capital’s business infrastructure. It regularly hosts major events, from industry exhibitions to international forums and presentations. In the context of recent news, the likely addition of the IEC to Maksym Krippa’s business assets is seen as a logical step in his strategy to accumulate control over key urban infrastructure facilities.
For an entrepreneur who is purposefully building an influential portfolio in real estate, technology, and gaming, such an asset looks not only profitable but also fits perfectly into the logic of developing long-term investment projects. Krippa has repeatedly demonstrated an interest in properties with great potential, both commercial and symbolic, and the IEC is a natural continuation of this line.
The owners of International Exhibition Center LLC include Anatoliy and Viktor Tkachenko, each with a 12.49% stake. Anatoliy also heads the company. Another 24.98% belongs to the Asborn venture fund, which is indirectly managed by Marina Dorokhina, the daughter of Kyiv developer Vagif Aliyev.
The IEC’s financial results in 2024 improved significantly: revenue reached UAH 83 million, which is 71.4% more than in 2023. At the same time, net losses decreased to UAH 7.1 million, which is three times less than before. The complex covers over 73,000 square meters, with 38,700 square meters set aside for exhibition halls. It has four pavilions (6,600–10,800 square meters each), 18 entrances, and 20 loading gates — everything you need for events of any size.
A new stage for the IEC: what transformations may occur
As of now, Maksym Krippa has not made any public statements regarding a possible deal with the IEC. There is also no official information about possible changes in the complex’s operations or plans for its renovation. However, given the businessman’s previous projects, it can be assumed that the center may become part of a new wave of development.
In a comment to Forbes, Krippa mentioned that he is focused on “interesting and beautiful business.” His portfolio — Maincast, NAVI, and the Ukrainian Esports Federation — indicates a strong interest in the high-tech and entertainment industries. Against this backdrop, speculation about the transformation of the IEC into an arena for large-scale esports events seems entirely logical.
The complex has everything it needs, from technical infrastructure to experience in hosting international events, including Eurovision 2017. If it is integrated into the e-sports development strategy, Kyiv will be able to strengthen its position on the global stage.
For now, these are just guesses. Krippa has not disclosed any details, so the public can only wait and see.
