Case Background

In 2019, Scott Goldsworthy, a yacht broker, sued Italian yacht builder Baglietto S.P.A. and businessman Miki Naftali. He claimed he was the procuring cause for the sale of a custom yacht called the Club‑M. According to the complaint, Goldsworthy worked closely with Naftali and Baglietto for roughly two years. He introduced naval architects, interior designers, and shipyards for consideration. He claimed both parties promised him a 5% commission if the sale went through.

Goldsworthy argued that he worked on the design, pricing, and bidding process, and acted as the broker for the new build. The parties ultimately selected Baglietto to build the yacht, and the deal was signed in early 2018. But when the contract was signed, both Naftali and Baglietto left him out. They refused to pay the promised commission, citing that it was not included in the final agreement. Goldsworthy sued, claiming breach of oral contract, breach of implied contract, and unjust enrichment.

The cause that led to the dispute

Goldsworthy claimed he was the procuring cause of the sale. He stated he introduced Naftali and Baglietto and facilitated meetings, negotiations, and design discussions. According to him, this was the very work a yacht broker was supposed to be paid for. Yet, despite these efforts, the Defendants refused to honour their agreement.<