US events and media group Diversified has acquired Marine Money, the long-running shipping finance conference and publishing brand, adding a financial pillar to its growing commercial marine portfolio.

The Portland, Maine-based company said it has bought Marine Money from International Marketing Strategies (IMS), bringing one of the best-known names in maritime finance under the same roof as brands such as the International Workboat Show, Pacific Marine Expo, National Fisherman and WorkBoat magazine.

Founded in 1987, Marine Money has built a strong following among shipping executives, banks, investors and advisers, running conferences around the world and producing newsletters and research focused on ship finance and capital markets.

Diversified said it has retained the Marine Money team, including long-time owners Matt McCleery and Mike McCleery, who will continue to run the business within Diversified’s Commercial Marine division, led by group vice-president Wes Doane.

“This acquisition represents a highly strategic step forward in expanding and deepening our Commercial Marine portfolio,” Doane said, pointing to Marine Money’s role in connecting the financial and operational sides of the maritime industry.

Matt McCleery said the deal gives Marine Money access to broader resources while preserving its industry focus. “This is a transformational opportunity for us,” he said, adding that the partnership will support further investment in digital technology, content and networking.

Diversified’s corporate vice-president of strategy and corporate development, Oakley Dyer, said the group had been actively looking to expand its marine footprint, describing Marine Money as a natural fit alongside its existing events and media platforms.

The acquisition follows a period of transition for Marine Money after the death of co-founder Jim Lawrence in June 2025. Lawrence, one of the most recognised figures in US maritime circles, founded Marine Money and the MTI Network and played a central role in shaping the modern shipping finance conference circuit.