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Musk’s Twitter Acquisition is Largest Take-Private since 2016

Elon Musk closed his $44 billion purchase of Twitter on Oct. 27, some six months after he first announced his intention to buy the social media platform.

The acquisition is the largest take-private deal since the 2016 purchase of data storage company EMC by Dell for $67 billion, according to PitchBook Data.

The closing of the deal follows months of public acrimony between Musk and Twitter leadership, an attempt by Musk to back out of the deal and lawsuits.

On the evening the deal closed, Musk sent a tweet that said “the bird is freed,” and news organizations reported the transaction was complete and that Musk had fired four senior leaders at the company. The next day, Twitter filed to have its stock delisted.

Musk’s takeover of Twitter became highly controversial because of his stated intent to reduce content moderation on the platform and, among other things, allow former President Donald Trump, who was banned from Twitter after the Jan. 6 attack on the US Capitol, back on the platform.

Shortly before the deal closed, Musk posted a note directed at advertisers in which he said Twitter should not become a “free-for-all hellscape where anything can be said with no consequences.” The day after the deal closed, he said in a tweet that “no major content decisions or account reinstatements” would take place before a newly formed content moderation council met.

 

Read More – www.pitchbook.com

 

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Binance to Buy FTX in Major Cryptocurrency Exchange Merger

Public squabble between the two largest offshore exchanges’ bosses led to run on FTX and forced sale

The two largest offshore cryptocurrency exchanges are merging, after a week of public squabbling between Binance’s chief executive, Changpeng Zhao, and FTX’s boss, Sam Bankman-Fried, triggered a bank run at the latter’s exchange and an embarrassing forced sale on Tuesday.

“This afternoon, FTX asked for our help,” tweeted Zhao. “There is a significant liquidity crunch. To protect users, we signed a non-binding letter of intent, intending to fully acquire FTX.com.”

The news was confirmed in a tweet by Bankman-Fried. He said: “Things have come full circle, and FTX.com’s first, and last, investors are the same: we have come to an agreement on a strategic transaction with Binance for FTX.com pending DD etc.”

The deal will see FTX being “fully acquired” by Binance, in return for covering the cash crunch at the embattled exchange. Further terms were not disclosed by either party.

Both Binance.US and FTX.US, the associated American regulated exchanges of the two companies, will remain independent.

Bankman-Fried is a major donor to the US Democratic party, and FTX was a top-20 contributor to Joe Biden’s presidential campaign, giving over $5m. Bankman-Fried is reported to have donated about $40m this year in the run-up to today’s midterm elections.

The two chief executives are among the most prominent players in the industry, known by their initials – CZ and SBF – and each capable of moving markets with just a tweet. They have worked together in the past, with Binance investing in FTX at the exchange’s inception.

 

Read More – www.theguardian.com

 

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Sophisticated Software Company – Specialising in Information Security

Achieve Corporation: Mastering the Sale of a Leading Information Security Software Company

In the fast-evolving world of information security, guiding a sophisticated software company through a successful business sale demands not only industry expertise but also strategic finesse. Achieve Corporation’s recent triumph in project managing the sale of a renowned software company specialising in information security is a prime example of our expertise in action.

Client Focus: A Specialist in Information Security. Our client, a sophisticated software company with a niche in information security, faced the critical task of business disposal to a suitable buyer, trade or non-trade. This challenge required a partner with a deep understanding of the information security market and the ability to identify buyers who not only matched their financial expectations but also resonated with their management culture and ethos.

Our Role: Strategic Market Analysis and Buyer Sourcing. As a strategic partner, we undertook a comprehensive review of market opportunities, setting benchmarks for share prices to ensure our client received optimal value. Recognising the importance of a cultural fit, we identified and engaged trade buyers whose management style and ethos aligned with our client’s principles. Our approach culminated in generating competitive sealed bids, each a reflection of our strategic market insights and diligent buyer sourcing.

Result: A Testament to Strategic Sale Management. The success of this venture was marked by securing seven sealed bids, each carefully vetted to meet the exacting criteria of the shareholders. This achievement was not merely in the number of bids but in their quality and alignment with our client’s objectives. The project was led to completion with exceptional expertise, ensuring a sale on a cash and debt-free basis. Notably, the purchaser financed the acquisition entirely through existing cash at the bank, signifying a smooth financial transition and a testament to the solidity of the transaction.

Achieve Corporation: Demonstrating Authority in Software Company Sales. This project exemplifies Achieve Corporation’s authoritative standing in managing and executing complex sales in the software industry, particularly in the specialised field of information security. Our approach combines in-depth market analysis, precise benchmarking, and strategic buyer engagement, culminating in sales that not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations.

In summary, Achieve Corporation stands as a leader in the strategic sale of sophisticated software companies, with a particular prowess in information security. Our ability to manage the entire sales process, from market review to the successful completion of transactions, showcases our expertise and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

For further information, arrange a private, confidential call at a time to suit you with Mark Roberts – Senior Partner: Financial Modelling and Valuations Analyst (FMVA) and Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA).

Email Mark at mark@achieve-corporation.com

Or visit our Home page by clicking here.

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SaaS – Software as a Service Provider

Achieve Corporation: Leading the Way in the SaaS Market Sale

At Achieve Corporation, we specialise in navigating the complex landscape of Software as a Service (SaaS) business transactions. Our recent project managing the sale of a prominent SaaS provider stands as a testament to our expertise and strategic prowess in this dynamic sector.

Client Focus: A Visionary SaaS Provider. Our client, a distinguished SaaS provider, aspired to expand their reach in the financial markets. Their goal was to merge into a larger PLC, leveraging their innovative solutions to scale new heights. This ambition required a partner adept in the nuances of the SaaS market and skilled in handling high-stake transactions.

Our Role: Confidentiality and Strategic Auctioneering. As the sell-side advisor, our role was pivotal. We orchestrated a confidential auction, a strategic choice that ensured competitive bidding while maintaining the confidentiality essential in such high-level transactions. This approach not only protected our client’s interests but also maximised their market potential, attracting serious buyers willing to recognise the full value of the SaaS provider.

Result: A Landmark Transaction. The result of our strategic auctioneering was nothing short of remarkable. We successfully managed the auction process, leading it to a successful completion. The intense interest generated in the market was evident in the receipt of 12 sealed bids. What made this achievement particularly noteworthy was the quality of these bids – each one made at full enterprise value. This outcome not only validated our client’s market standing but also demonstrated our ability to attract bids that reflect the true worth of a SaaS business. Furthermore, the terms of the sale were exceptionally favourable: 100% cash on completion, on a cash and debt-free basis. This ensured a clear and advantageous financial transition for our client.

Achieve Corporation: Your Expert in SaaS Business Transactions. This project underlines Achieve Corporation’s position as an authority in the SaaS business sale arena. Our expertise lies not just in executing transactions, but in elevating them to achieve optimal outcomes. We understand the SaaS market’s intricacies and leverage this knowledge to our clients’ advantage, ensuring transactions that are not only successful but also strategically sound.

In summary, Achieve Corporation’s successful project management in the sale of a SaaS provider demonstrates our deep market understanding and strategic auctioneering capabilities. We deliver results that not only meet but exceed client expectations, reaffirming our status as a leader in the SaaS sector.

For further information, arrange a private, confidential call at a time to suit you with Mark Roberts – Senior Partner: Financial Modelling and Valuations Analyst (FMVA) and Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA).

Email Mark at mark@achieve-corporation.com

Or visit our Home page by clicking here.

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UK Industrial Cleaning and Food Hygiene Services

Achieve Corporation: Navigating the Sale of a Premier UK Industrial Cleaning and Food Hygiene Services Company

In the intricate sector of industrial cleaning and food hygiene services, facilitating a successful business sale requires not only profound sector knowledge but also a tailored approach to meet the unique needs of the industry. Achieve Corporation’s recent success in managing the sale of Partners in Hygiene Ltd, a leader in UK Industrial Cleaning and Food Hygiene Services, stands as a testament to our expertise and strategic capabilities in this specialised field.

Client Spotlight: Partners in Hygiene Ltd. Our client, Partners in Hygiene Ltd, has established itself as a forerunner in the UK’s industrial cleaning and food hygiene sector. Tasked with the disposal of the business to an appropriate buyer, the challenge was to find a partner that not only aligned financially but also shared the company’s management culture and ethos.

Our Role: Strategic Market Assessment and Buyer Engagement. Our role was comprehensive and multi-faceted. We commenced with an in-depth review of the market opportunities and a careful benchmarking of the possible share price, ensuring that our client’s business was valued accurately and attractively. Identifying and engaging the right buyers was pivotal. Our focus was on sourcing buyers whose management style and ethos mirrored that of our client, culminating in the generation of competitive sealed bids. A significant part of our mandate was to assist a German-based buyer, Leadec Group, in their first acquisition in the UK division, guiding them meticulously through the process.

Result: A Strategic and Profitable Sale The culmination of our efforts was the successful sale of Partners in Hygiene Ltd to Leadec Group, a non-trade buyer. This sale was not just a transaction but a strategic alignment, bringing together two entities that shared a vision for excellence in the industrial cleaning and food hygiene space. Leadec Group, with its impressive portfolio of 20,000 employees, 300 locations, and sales amounting to 900 million euros, was the ideal match, reflecting the high value and market position of our client.

Achieve Corporation: Your Trusted Advisor in Business Sales.. This project is a prime example of Achieve Corporation’s capability to facilitate high-calibre sales in specialised industries. Our approach is characterised by thorough market analysis, strategic buyer sourcing, and a commitment to aligning with our client’s culture and ethos, ensuring transactions that are not only successful but also strategically beneficial.

In summary, Achieve Corporation stands as an authoritative figure in the management and execution of business sales in the industrial cleaning and food hygiene sector. Our success in the sale of Partners in Hygiene Ltd underscores our expertise in handling complex transactions, delivering results that surpass client expectations and set new benchmarks in the industry.

For further information, arrange a private, confidential call at a time to suit you with Mark Roberts – Senior Partner: Financial Modelling and Valuations Analyst (FMVA) and Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA).

Email Mark at mark@achieve-corporation.com

Or visit our Home page by clicking here.

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Project Denab

Acquisition Targets – Across All Sectors – Subject to KPI.

We are currently working on several ‘live’ briefs for our Client.

They are looking to make additions to the twelve companies which currently make up their Group and are now benchmarking potential targets for their next phase of planned growth.

Timescales from initial contact to completing in full on deals has been as quick as 4 weeks, but an average timeframe is 4 months.

They aim to complete on acquisitions before the end of October 2022, have the experience and expertise to support and grow business, can supply evidence of companies they have already acquired and provide proof of funds. Their acquisitions brief focuses on:

  • Loss of income and trading profits due to Covid 19 to be ‘added back’ to the financial accounts
  • Building a group of companies to gain a competitive edge
  • Future profits as a basis for valuation and return on investment
  • Flexible deal structure and handover period to meet your needs
  • Protecting the skills and goodwill that you already have in place

Our role is to identify the suitability of companies based upon their brief, protect the confidentiality of both parties, enter first stage negotiations, and assist their internal acquisitions’ team in achieving a successful completion.

Contact Olivia@achieve-corporation.com for further details

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Achieve Corporation: Spearheading the Sale of Vesseltec UK Ltd

Achieve Corporation: Spearheading the Sale of Vesseltec UK Ltd, a Leading Pressure Vessel Manufacturer

The realm of sophisticated manufacturing, especially in high-stakes sectors like pharmaceuticals, demands a nuanced approach to business sales. Achieve Corporation’s recent successful orchestration of the sale of Vesseltec UK Ltd, a premier manufacturer of pressure vessels and a Tier 1 supplier to the pharmaceutical sector, exemplifies our expertise in managing complex transactions in specialised industries.

Client Spotlight: Sophisticated UK Manufacturer Vesseltec UK Ltd stands at the forefront of pressure vessel manufacturing. Renowned for their sophisticated designs and status as a Tier 1 supplier to the pharmaceutical industry, their decision to find a trade buyer required a partner with a deep understanding of their niche market and the capability to identify buyers who not only aligned financially but also shared their stringent standards and ethos.

Our Role: Strategic Market Analysis and Buyer Engagement Our involvement began with a detailed review of market opportunities, followed by benchmarking the potential share price to ensure our client was positioned optimally in the market. The core of our strategy centred on sourcing trade buyers whose management culture and ethos resonated with that of Vesseltec UK Ltd. This approach resulted in the generation of competitive sealed bids, a testament to our strategic market insights and rigorous selection process.

Result: A Strategic Acquisition by Tower Growth Management LLP The sale process, meticulously managed by Achieve Corporation, attracted three trade buyers to the final bidding stage. This intense competition is a reflection of the market’s recognition of Vesseltec UK Ltd’s value. The eventual acquisition by Tower Growth Management LLP, a firm with a robust portfolio of nine engineering companies, was not just a transaction but a strategic addition to their expanding holdings. The sale completion signifies the alignment of Vesseltec UK Ltd’s values and potential with Tower Growth Management’s investment ethos.

Achieve Corporation: Your Authority in High-Value Manufacturing Sales This project underscores Achieve Corporation’s standing as an expert in managing and executing sales in the high-value manufacturing sector. Our approach, marked by in-depth market analysis, precise benchmarking, and strategic buyer engagement, ensures outcomes that go beyond mere transactions to create lasting value and strategic alignment.

In summary, Achieve Corporation emerges as a leader in facilitating the sale of sophisticated manufacturing entities, particularly in sectors as critical as pharmaceuticals. Our success in the sale of Vesseltec UK Ltd demonstrates our proficiency in handling intricate transactions, delivering results that exceed client expectations and set industry benchmarks.

For further information, arrange a private, confidential call at a time to suit you with Mark Roberts – Senior Partner: Financial Modelling and Valuations Analyst (FMVA) and Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA).

Email Mark at mark@achieve-corporation.com

Or visit our Home page by clicking here.

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KKR snaps up UK infrastructure investor John Laing in £2bn deal

John Laing board to unanimously recommend KKR’s offer to shareholders to take firm private.

The private-equity firm KKR has agreed to buy the UK infrastructure investor John Laing, which has stakes in Alder Hey children’s hospital in Liverpool and a retirement homebuilding project with McCarthy & Stone, in a deal valued at about £2bn.

The takeover values the London-listed firm at 403p a share, which represents a 27% premium on the closing price of John Laing stock on 5 May, the day before it confirmed it was in talks with KKR.

John Laing has invested in more than 150 projects and businesses since it was founded, across a range of sectors including transport and energy.

The firm, which was floated in February 2015, owns assets including schools, hospitals and infrastructure predominantly in the US and Australia as well as in Europe.

The investor was involved in the 2013 redevelopment of Alder Hey, which was funded through a private finance initiative, and as a result still holds a 40% stake in the hospital.

John Laing said its board intended to unanimously recommend KKR’s offer to its shareholders to take the firm private, adding that it represented a fair and reasonable value for the company.

KKR has also proposed a £175m cash injection into John Laing’s pension fund, accompanied by a further £50m in 18 months.

John Laing’s shares rose by 11% in morning trading on Wednesday, to 402p, just below the offer price.

 

Read More – www.theguardian.com

 

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Sony Music buys UK podcast producer Somethin’ Else

Sony Music is latest after Spotify, Amazon and Apple to try to cash in on boom in audio listening.

Sony Music has acquired the UK’s largest independent podcast producer, Somethin’ Else, which makes David Tennant’s interview series and The Sun King, David Dimbleby’s deep dive into the life of Rupert Murdoch.

Home to artists from Beyoncé and AC/DC to Dolly Parton, Sony is using the acquisition to spearhead the launch of a new global podcast division.

“Our new global podcast division is key to our plans for a fast-paced expansion in the market, diversifying our creative abilities and providing a home for exciting content that will benefit millions of podcast lovers around the world,” said Dennis Kooker, the president of global digital business and US sales at Sony Music Entertainment, the Sony subsidiary that struck the deal.

Companies ranging from Spotify and Amazon to Apple have been snapping up now increasingly scarce prime podcast producers and platforms to cash in on a boom in audio listening and diversify away from a reliance on music streaming.

Read More – www.theguardian.com

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Buyout of AOL, Yahoo signals PE’s biggest bet on digital media

Apollo Global Management has for years wanted to become a major player in the media world. The firm finally got its wish Monday.

After days of speculation, Apollo has agreed to acquire a 90% stake in Verizon’s portfolio of digital news sites, including Yahoo and AOL, from Verizon for about $5 billion.

The deal marks private equity’s biggest bet yet on the embattled digital media industry, which has struggled to compete with Google and Facebook for a share of the digital advertising market. And it puts Apollo, an investor engulfed in controversy for the past year-plus over co-founder Leon Black’s connections to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, in control of a collection of news sites after spending years betting on legacy media.

“It’s a textbook Apollo deal, They’ve been interested in media space for a while, judging by their past bidding activity. Apollo probably likes the space since many other investors are avoiding it.”

Indeed, Apollo’s history with media companies dates back years. But that history hasn’t always been successful.

 

Read More – www.pitchbook.com