Berlusconi's MFE Launches Takeover Bid for ProSiebenSat.1, Seeks to Boost Stake Amid Investor Concerns
March 27, 2025
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