Informa PLC has made a recommended cash offer for Ascential PLC, to be implemented through a Scheme of Arrangement under Part 26 of the Companies Act 2006. The offer values Ascential at approximately £1.2 billion on a fully diluted basis, representing a premium of approximately 53-67% to the closing price and volume weighted average price of Ascential shares. Additionally, Informa expects significant revenue opportunities and annual cost savings through the combination, with a low double-digit multiple of enterprise value to Ascential's estimated EBITDA in 2025.
Informa's Chief Executive, Stephen A. Carter, highlighted the strategic rationale, stating that the combination would allow for the expansion of B2B brands such as Lions and Money20/20 into more sectors, accelerating growth and taking advantage of new opportunities. Ascential's Chief Executive, Philip Thomas, expressed pride in Ascential's brands and the potential for substantial value for shareholders, as well as unlocking further growth opportunities through Informa's international footprint and capabilities in data and analytics.
Informa believes it is uniquely positioned to provide the global platform and operations to enable Ascential's divisions to continue their strong growth trajectory. This includes nurturing and growing major B2B brands, particularly in the FinTech sector, where Informa sees exciting opportunities for Money20/20 to benefit from its complementary activities and international infrastructure.