Berlusconi's MFE Launches Takeover Bid for ProSiebenSat.1, Seeks to Boost Stake Amid Investor Concerns

March 27, 2025
Berlusconi's MFE Launches Takeover Bid for ProSiebenSat.1, Seeks to Boost Stake Amid Investor Concerns
  • MFE, controlled by the Berlusconi family, is looking to consolidate its media holdings amid concerns regarding ProSiebenSat.1's profitability in a challenging advertising market.

  • Pier Silvio Berlusconi emphasized the urgency for constructive cooperation with ProSiebenSat.1 to generate value before it's too late, acknowledging the pressures from digital competition.

  • However, the offered price for shares is below the current market value, leading to shareholder complaints about the low valuation.

  • MFE plans to adhere to the legal minimum price based on the volume-weighted average stock price over the last three months, which is expected to be around €5.75, while the current closing price is €6.53.

  • Despite the announcement, ProSiebenSat.1's stock price fell by 3% on the Tradegate trading platform, reflecting a negative investor reaction.

  • MFE has been influencing ProSiebenSat.1's management for years, advocating for strategic decisions like selling off non-core businesses to improve financial health.

  • This initiative is part of MFE's broader strategy to create a formidable media group capable of competing against major online streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO.

  • ProSiebenSat.1's board will carefully review MFE's offer and provide a legally mandated statement following the publication of the bid document.

  • The takeover bid will consist of 78% cash and the remainder in newly issued shares of MFE's stock.

  • MFE has indicated it has secured support from an existing shareholder to facilitate this acquisition.

  • The bid, announced on March 26, 2025, aims to enhance MFE's influence over the German media company.

  • MediaForEurope (MFE), a significant shareholder of ProSiebenSat.1, has initiated a takeover bid to increase its stake from 29.99% to over 30%.

Summary based on 6 sources


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