MAI

ESB to acquire Northern Ireland Electricity

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:51:00 +0200

Ireland │ United Kingdom

Ireland's Electricity Supply Board (ESB) has entered into an agreement with the Arcapita Bank-owned Viridian Group to buy Northern Ireland Electricity plc (NIE) in a deal worth US$1.6 billion.

NIE owns the regulated electricity transmission and distribution network in Northern Ireland and is responsible for the planning, development, construction and maintenance of the entire network as well as the operation of the distribution network.

ESB, through its ESB Networks division, owns the electricity transmission and distribution network in the Republic of Ireland.

M&A International Inc.’s Irish member, IBI Corporate Finance, advised the Irish Government’s Department of Communications, Energy & Natural Resources – a 95% shareholder in ESB – in relation to this acquisition. Subject to the fulfillment of a number of conditions, the transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2010.

M&A International Inc. Infrastructure Construction M&A: Opportunities in Adversity – August 2010

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:16:00 +0200

4 August 2010. In this Infrastructure Construction Industry M&A Overview “Opportunities in Adversity”, M&A International experts see M&A activity gaining momentum as the present global economic recovery accelerates and is being reinforced by low valuations. While overall the sector outlook appears robust, it was severely affected by the recession with both revenue growth and M&A activity declining in 2008, and again in 2009. The severity of the financial crisis was mitigated by a strong fiscal response in many developed countries. Stimulus spending was largely directed towards infrastructure projects, providing vital sector support. Preferred methods of fiscal expenditure have included infrastructure-related projects given their higher multiplier effect. Clearly, substantial infrastructure investments should benefit M&A activity in both developed and emerging countries. Key markets over the next decade will include China and India due to their substantial infrastructure investment potential reflecting existing infrastructure deficiencies and high economic growth..

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Construction and Engineering Services Industry Specialists here. About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net
For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

EOS Group enters into joint venture with subsidiary of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, CreditCN

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:30:00 +0200

China │ Germany

The international EOS Group, an Otto Group company, has entered into a joint venture with CreditCN Business Consulting Ltd to form EOS CreditCN Credit Management (Beijing) Ltd., in which EOS holds a 51% stake while CreditCN has the remaining 49%. EOS CreditCN will offer account receivables management and consulting services for companies with business interests or private customers in China.

Established in 1987 by the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation/Credit Management Department of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), CreditCN was one of the first companies to offer credit management and market research services in China.

The EOS Group is a leading international provider of tailor-made services covering the entire customer relationship life cycle from customer acquisition to electronic payment processing, debt collection and the purchasing of receivables portfolios.

M&A International Inc.’s members in Germany (Angermann M&A International GmbH) and China (Strategic European Investment Management Ltd.) advised EOS Group throughout the process, from coordination of the due diligence process and negotiations through to the successful closing of the transaction.

M&A International Inc. Alternative Energy Industry M&A Overview – June 2010

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 16:02:00 +0200

9 June 2010. In this Alternative Energy Industry M&A Overview “Seeds of Change”, M&A International experts highlight the growing importance of renewable energy, with industry players actively increasing their renewable portfolios using M&A to buy capacity and integrate horizontally and vertically.

World energy markets are in the midst of a paradigm shift away from heavy dependence on hydrocarbons in favor of a diversified portfolio of energy sources where renewable energy, which accounted for 4.4% of global energy production in 2008, will have a major role. This share will increase rapidly in the next few years, driven by a shift in market focus by both the private and public sectors. For instance, in 2009 power generation investment in alternative energy exceeded investments in traditional fossil-fuel powered generation for the second consecutive year. Moreover, government-backed initiatives have also increased with $180bn mandated in renewable energy related programs in the period 2008–2009.

To benefit from the growing importance of renewable energy, industry players have actively increased their renewable portfolios using M&A to buy capacity and integrate horizontally and vertically.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Energy Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Felix Abba acquires Kalev Chocolate Factory

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:55:00 +0200

Estonia │ Finland Nordic food manufacturer Felix Abba has acquired Estonian confectioner Kalev Chocolate Factory from the Estonian holding Luterma. Under the agreement, Felix Abba takes over 100% of the shares in Kalev Chocolate Factory, including the factory in Jüri – which is located close to Tallinn – the production equipment and the related trademarks.

Kalev is the leading chocolate and sugar confectionery company in Estonia, with more than 200 years of history. In addition to Kalev, the acquisition includes related biscuits and flour mix businesses.

Felix Abba is one of Finland’s leading food manufacturers. Felix Abba is a part of the Orkla Foods Fenno-Baltic division, which is a part of the Norwegian Orkla Group. The Orkla Group operates in the branded consumer goods, aluminum solutions, materials and financial investment sectors.

Clas Goran Hagstrom, Managing Director of Orkla Foods Fenno-Baltic, said the acquisition was an important step in the expansion of Orkla Foods' confectionery business, as it gave it good growth and value creation possibilities in the Estonian market and provided a platform for expanding its confectionery business in Finland and the Baltic region.

M&A International Inc.’s member in the Baltic States, GILD Bankers originated the deal and assisted Felix Abba / Orkla throughout the acquisition process.

Lavazza acquires Onda Coffee Break

Wed, 19 May 2010 11:47:00 +0200

Bulgaria │ Italy Lavazza, one of the largest espresso coffee producers in the world, has acquired Onda Coffee Break – the leading coffee shop chain in Bulgaria – for an undisclosed consideration.

The acquisition, in line with Lavazza’s international growth strategy, represents an important investment to consolidate the Group presence in Bulgaria where espresso coffee consumption is growing rapidly. As a result of this transaction, Lavazza has acquired 11 shops located in key shopping areas in Sofia. Lavazza will gradually increase the visibility of its own brand within the Onda chain, aiming at turning its coffee shops into a showcase for the authentic Italian espresso in Eastern Europe.

Onda Coffee Break was controlled by Global Finance, the largest private equity fund in the region, together with local smaller shareholders.

M&A International Inc.’s Italian member Arietti & Partners together with the Bulgarian member Entrea Capital originated the deal and assisted Lavazza throughout the acquisition process, proving once again the value and competitive advantage of M&A International Inc. in cross-border acquisitions.

Despite the recent travel difficulties, 228 attendees from over 40 countries met to discuss M&A and generate deal opportunities in Stockholm.

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:16:00 +0200

Stockholm, 16 April 2010. The 9th M&A International Inc. Mid-Market Forum (MMF), held in Stockholm, Sweden on 16 April, was attended by over 220 senior industrialists, M&A advisors and bankers. The event focuses on generating M&A deal activity through a series of one-to-one private meetings. At this year’s MMF, approximately 900 private meetings were held, each lasting 20 minutes. Göran Lindö, VP Operations and M&A at Dustin, an online IT equipment sales business owned by one of the major Nordic PE funds, Altor, said: “It’s incredibly effective. Had I tried to arrange all of these meetings on my own it would have taken me a very long time. Here you get to the point at once. You skip the ineffective small talk and everyone is fine with that.” During the MMF Gala Dinner on Friday 16 April at the Grand Hôtel, M&A International Inc. announced the “M&A International Inc. Deal of the Year 2009” which was won by M&A International Inc.’s members in Ireland and Australia, IBI Corporate Finance and Baron Partners. They advised Paddy Power of Ireland on the acquisition of SportsBet, an Australian licensed sports bookmaker.
M&A International Inc. Deal of the Year 2009 About M&A International Inc. Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Life Technologies Corp. acquires Limerick-based biotechnology firm Stokes Bio Ltd

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:28:00 +0200

Ireland │ USA Stokes Bio Ltd is an Irish company dedicated to the development and application of microfluidic technology, which helps to radically improve and enhance life sciences research and molecular diagnostics. The products arising from these technologies are used for discovery of markers for cancer that will lead to a new approach to the diagnosis of cancer and pathogen detection. The company was founded in 2005 by Mark Davies and Tara Dalton based on technology developed by the Stokes Research Institute at the University of Limerick, and Kernel Capital Partners was one of its main investors.

US-based Life Technologies Corp. is a global biotechnology tools company providing systems, consumables and services for scientific researchers around the world. Life Technologies is advancing scientific research in areas like academic research, drug discovery and development, toxicology and forensics, disease diagnostics, clinical cell therapy and regenerative medicine and biologics manufacturing.

M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, assisted Stokes Bio in assessing its funding options in Q3 2009 and advised the company on the need to bring a larger strategic partner on board given its medium-term funding requirements. IBI subsequently approached a small number of potential strategic partners on behalf of the company and entered into exclusive sale discussions with Life Technologies early in the process, which culminated in the sale of Stokes Bio to Life Technologies.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q1 2010

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:47:00 +0200

16 April 2010. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces a continued increase in the level of deal activity and expects the level of deal closings to increase in the coming quarters. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Konrad Hornschuch AG acquires O’Sullivan Films, Inc.

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 17:50:00 +0100

Germany │ USA M&A International Inc.’s USA member, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., advised on the sale of O’Sullivan Films, Inc. to Konrad Hornschuch AG of Weissbach, Germany, a portfolio company of Barclays Private Equity. This strategic acquisition is part of an overall plan to further expand geographically as well as deliver additional products and services to the market.

O’Sullivan Films is located in Winchester, VA and has 350 employees. The company was founded over 100 years ago and is a recognized leader in the production and commercialization of polymer films and finishing film technologies serving the building products, consumer, healthcare and automotive markets.

Konrad Hornschuch, with 800 employees worldwide, is a leading producer and marketer of highly technical films, foils and artificial leather for the home decor, fashion, furniture, automotive and construction related markets through its well known brands d-c-fix® and Skai®. The combined entities generated revenues of nearly US$300 million in 2009.

According to Denis Belzile, CEO of O’Sullivan Films, “We feel that Konrad Hornschuch will be an excellent partner for O’Sullivan Films and the combination of our two companies offers tremendous potential. The team at Matrix provided invaluable advice to us throughout the entire transaction. They did an outstanding job in an environment where the dynamics were very complex.”

Matrix also served as the investment bank for O’Sullivan Films when it was acquired from PolyOne Corporation by its management team and investors in 2006.

M&A International Inc. eTailing Industry M&A Overview – March 2010

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:48:00 +0100

11 March 2010. In this eTailing Industry M&A Overview, M&A International experts detect a high level of activity despite the economic downturn.

Despite extremely adverse global macroeconomic conditions in late 2008 and throughout 2009, eTailing has performed well. Sales growth of 6.4% in 2008 and 4.3% in 2009 compares very well with declining traditional retail sales. Ever increasing broadband penetration is but one of several factors that suggest that eTailing will continue to grow.

eTailing M&A activity has remained largely stable and well-supported. Such performance reflects the desire of traditional retailers to enhance their model by adding B&C (Bricks and Clicks) capability, existing players’ needs to consolidate, the increasing determination of pure play eTailers to augment their existing product and service offering and a shift towards integrated marketing by multi-channel players.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Retail Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Kiri Dyes & Chemicals Ltd acquires Dystar Group from its Insolvency Administrators

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:38:00 +0100

Germany │ India Ahmedabad-based Kiri Dyes and Chemicals Ltd – through its SPV, Kiri Holding Singapore Private Limited – has acquired the German DyStar Group (Dystar) from the Insolvency Administrators of Dystar’s estate via an asset purchase agreement.

Kiri Dyes is a listed Indian company engaged mainly in the manufacture of reactive dyes, which are used primarily in cotton fabrics. The company also manufactures and markets dye intermediates and basic chemicals for the dyestuff industry.

DyStar is a global market leader for dyes, dyes solutions, leather, performance chemicals, new technologies and custom manufacturing of specialty dyes and pigments. It provides high-quality products and services across the entire value chain in various sectors such as apparel, hosiery, automotive, carpets and industrial fabrics. In September 2009, Dystar filed for insolvency with the Frankfurt courts, and Insolvency Administrators were appointed to manage the estate of Dystar.

M&A International Inc.’s Indian and German members, SBI Capital Markets Ltd and Angermann M&A International GmbH, advised Kiri Dyes throughout the buy-out process, from coordination of the due diligence process and negotiations with the Insolvency Administrators over the estate of Dystar (appointed by the German courts) through to the successful closing of the transaction.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q4 2009

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:30:00 +0100

2 February 2010. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces the return of M&A as a key corporate development tool following a global survey of its members. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Acentic sells controlling stake to PhilWeb Corporation and ISM Communications Corp

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 15:36:00 +0100

Philippines │ United Kingdom Acentic, one of Europe’s largest providers of digital television and internet access to 4 and 5 star hotel groups, has sold a controlling stake to a new joint venture company established by Philippines-based Philweb Corporation (WEB) and ISM Communications Corporation (ISM). The 65% stake owned by GI Partners (a leading private equity firm focused on asset backed investments in North America and Western Europe) was acquired for a cash consideration of US$28.5 million. The remaining 35% of Acentic will continue to be owned by Niantic Holdings GmbH, a German company controlled by Dr. Andreas Jacobs of the renowned chocolate family.

Acentic is an international provider of digital and internet protocol (IP) converged services to hotels. Their digital television services and high speed internet access are in many of the world’s leading hotel chains including Accor, Dorint, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Hilton, Hyatt, Maritim, Marriott, Mövenpick and Starwood. Operating in more than 30 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Acentic is the second largest in-room entertainment service provider in Europe.

WEB and ISM see Acentic as a perfect fit for the information technology and telecommunications business of ISM and the gaming expertise of WEB. The acquisition will enable Acentic to grow its predominantly European market to include the Asia–Pacific region, the fastest growing hotel market in the world.

M&A International Inc.’s UK member, Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP, advised Acentic in this transaction, working closely with the alliance’s Norwegian team, Bridgehead AS, on identifying relevant trade buyers particularly in the hotel PayTV market.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked as No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland by mergermarket

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:37:00 +0100

December 2009. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international mergers and acquisitions activity by specialist M&A publisher, mergermarket. This is the fifth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1. IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 10 qualifying deals in 2009. It also advised on the highest value of deals in the Irish market with a cumulative deal value of US$1,168m for 2009. The company was also ranked top in 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005. Further consolidation expected in 2010 Commenting on the announcement, Roisin Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: "We are delighted that the leading position of IBI Corporate Finance in the Irish corporate finance market has been reinforced by these statistics. While economic and financial conditions remained difficult, M&A activity amongst Irish corporates continued in 2009 and reflected a mix of companies in pursuit of international expansion, disposing of non-core or under-performing operations and general distress M&A. We expect to see further consolidation in 2010 in the face of ongoing challenging economic conditions with a cohort of ambitious Irish companies continuing to implement successful growth strategies." About mergermarket mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform. About IBI Corporate Finance IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions. IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the exclusive Irish member of M&A International Inc. www.ibicorporatefinance.ie About M&A International Inc. M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Healthcare Industry M&A Overview – Fall 2009

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:48:00 +0100

3 December 2009. In this Healthcare Industry M&A Overview, M&A International Inc. expects "Global Consolidation to Shape the Future of the Healthcare Industry".

Over the past decade, the healthcare industry has experienced global convergence and witnessed the rise of emerging markets. This report covers M&A activities in two major sectors: pharmaceuticals (including specialty, over-the-counter and contract pharmaceuticals) and medical devices. It focuses on major trends and drivers influencing the sector and their impact on M&A activity. It also considers the role of emerging economies, both as manufacturing hubs and high growth potential markets. The report discusses the scale of M&A activity in these sectors, which have been highly resilient despite the current global economic slowdown, particularly in small cap and cross-border deals, with emerging markets driving a significant proportion of volume.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Healthcare Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

MasTec acquires Precision Pipeline

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:54:00 +0100

United States The shareholders of Precision Pipeline, LLC, a leader among the construction contractors that build large-diameter transcontinental oil and natural gas pipelines in the United States, have sold their investment to MasTec, Inc., a specialty contractor for communications companies, utilities and governments throughout the US.

Precision Pipeline appointed M&A International Inc.’s Dallas member, Capital Alliance, to advise on the transaction. The sale included a payment of US$132 million in cash at the closing and the assumption of US$34 million in outstanding debt, which, together, represented more than twice the initial offer. Including earnout considerations, the aggregate transaction value (excluding assumption debt) is expected to exceed US$250 million. A major benefit of the sale is the improved future growth opportunities as a division of a public company, which will result in additional value for the shareholders under the negotiated five-year earnout program.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q3 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:48:00 +0100

18 November 2009. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces an upturn in mid-market M&A activity following a global survey of its members. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3TS Capital Partners acquires a minority stake in Romania’s InternetCorp

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:54:00 +0100

Austria │ Romania 3TS Capital Partners, one of the leading private equity and venture capital firms in Central and Eastern Europe, has acquired a minority stake in InternetCorp of Romania. 3TS primarily targets expansion capital and buy-out investments in high growth sectors. Investors in the funds include 3i, Cisco, Sitra, EBRD and KfW.

InternetCorp is Romania’s largest privately held online publisher, with a market share of more than 10% of the Romanian online advertising market and a diversified portfolio of 14 online products, including www.wall-street.ro, www.kudika.ro and www.9am.ro.

Commenting on the investment, Mihai Seceleanu, CEO of InternetCorp said: “Having concluded a deal of significant size during the recession sends a signal that while Romania’s online space is maturing, there is still plenty of room left for potential growth.”

M&A International Inc.’s Romanian member, Capital Partners, acted as exclusive financial advisor to InternetCorp.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and reports a strong rebound in M&A activity

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:48:00 +0100

Miami, 9 November 2009. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has expanded its international reach to 45 members in 42 countries with the admission of Entrea Capital (Bulgaria) and Swicorp (Saudi Arabia and Tunisia) during the M&A International Inc. Fall Conference in Miami.

M&A International Inc.’s member firms met in Miami to consider the M&A market, its recovery and recent trends. During its conference it admitted two new member firms and reported a strong rebound in deal activity.

The level of members’ active mandates has been on the upswing since July and is now at the high end of its typical range, with members currently advising on approximately 460 active mandates.
ACTIVE DEALS ON THE REBOUND
Source: M&A International Inc. deal database

On closed deals, statistics to the end of October 2009 show M&A activity in the mid-market has recovered to 78% of that seen during the same period in 2008. The number of deals closed by M&A International Inc. members from January to October 2009 totaled 157, compared to 207 during the same period last year. Most notably, the monthly rate of closed deals since May 2009 has outnumbered that of 2008.

CLOSED DEAL RATE PICKING UP SINCE SLOW START OF 2009

Source: M&A International Inc. deal database

About Entrea Capital, Bulgaria
Entrea Capital is a leading financial advisory firm focused on serving clients in Bulgaria and Southeast Europe. Its core expertise is M&A advisory services, helping clients plan, structure and execute successful M&A transactions. Entrea Capital’s mergers & acquisitions practice in Bulgaria consists of a dedicated team of senior professionals, and now is supported by the global M&A alliance M&A International Inc. In addition to M&A advisory services, Entrea helps its clients with a range of fundraising and corporate finance services. www.entrea-capital.com

About SWICORP
Swicorp is a leading independent corporate finance advisory, private equity and principal investment firm with a specific regional focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Founded in 1987 and licensed by the Capital Market Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Dubai Financial Service Authority of the United Arab Emirates, Swicorp has an extensive track record of pioneering advisory transactions across the MENA region over the last 20 years.

From its Saudi platform, Swicorp is able to reach the entire Middle Eastern market. And from its Tunisian platform, Swicorp is able to service the whole North African market. Swicorp is headquartered in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and has regional offices in Jeddah, Geneva, Tunis, Dubai and Algiers. www.swicorp.com

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Tullett Prebon has entered into an agreement to acquire Convenção Corretora de Valores e Câmbio

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Brazil │ United Kingdom M&A International Inc.’s Brazilian member, Stratus Group, acted as exclusive financial advisor to Convenção Corretora de Valores e Câmbio (Convenção) in the sale of the business. On 12 October 2009, Convenção reached an agreement to sell its operations to Tullett Prebon for an initial consideration US$11.5 million, with deferred consideration up to a maximum of US$28.7 subject to achievement of future revenue and profit targets. The deal is subject to approval from the Brazilian authorities including the Central Bank of Brazil.

Convenção is an independent brokerage house focused on institutional clients, acting primarily in the futures market. The company was founded in 1973 by Eduardo Rocha Azevedo, previous President of Bovespa (the former Brazilian Stock Exchange now part of BM&FBovespa, the Brazilian Stock, Mercantile & Futures Exchange) and one of the founders of BM&F (the former Brazilian Mercantile & Futures Exchange, also part of BM&FBovespa).

Tullett Prebon was founded in London, UK and is one of the largest international inter-dealer brokers acting in Europe, North America, the Asia Pacific and more recently the Latin American market. Its business covers the following major product groups: volatility, rates, non-banking & sterling cash, treasury, energy, environmental, credit and equities. It also offers a variety of market information services through its IDB market data division, Tullett Prebon Information.

M&A International Inc. member Bridgehead voted “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2009 – Norway”

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:35:00 +0200

September 2009. M&A International Inc. member Bridgehead has been voted “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2009 – Norway” by the internationally recognized magazine ACQ Finance. Nearly 3,000 professional industry players voted in the poll. Guided by the poll’s results, ACQ’s editors selected those firms and individuals they thought had had the greatest impact on the industry in respective countries during 2008 / 2009. ACQ awards are voted for by the industry itself. With the worst of the financial storm predicted to be over, the Country Awards 2009 honors the movers and shakers that have survived the crunch by adopting a flexible approach to M&A. This year’s winners have not only made key decisions, adapting to an uncertain economy, they have also executed their plans with finesse and thought for the future. Dan Petterøe, Partner at Bridgehead commented: "We are very pleased to have won the “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year – Norway” award, which recognizes our commitment to client service and providing leading M&A advisory services. Bridgehead has closed over 100 M&A transactions in the last 8 years and we are proud to provide our clients with tailored and value-added advisory services throughout every transaction." Bridgehead AS is one of the leading, independent advisors in buy and sell-side transactions involving Norwegian and foreign-based companies, public and private companies, and financial investors. Bridgehead has offices in Oslo and Bergen.

Performance in Lighting acquires Spittler Group

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Germany │ Italy Performance in Lighting, a leading Italian-based group in the lighting industry, has acquired 75% of the share capital of Spittler Group, a German company active in the production and distribution of indoor lighting equipment.

With this acquisition, Performance in Lighting significantly strengthens its footprint in the German market as well as its European presence in the indoor lighting sector. The product line will also broaden, with turnover expected to reach €135 million in 2010.

M&A International Inc.’s Italian member, Arietti & Partners, together with the alliance’s German member, Angermann M&A International GmbH, originated the deal and represented Performance in Lighting throughout the acquisition process.

M&A International Inc. member Audon Partners voted “Corporate Finance Advisor of the Year 2009 – Denmark”

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:35:00 +0200

September 2009. M&A International Inc. member Audon Partners has been voted “Corporate Finance Advisor of the Year 2009 – Denmark” via an annual poll among 3,000 professional industry players in the internationally recognized magazine ACQ Finance. Charlotte Abbott from ACQ Finance commented: “Audon Partners has been given this award in recognition of the results obtained by the company throughout the year on behalf of its clients, and of the expertise and experience that Audon Partners possesses. The award has been obtained on the basis of several significant and complex transactions, which Audon Partners has successfully closed during the past year.” These include among others:

The sale of ILVA – Denmark’s second largest home furnishings retail chain – to IDesign, which also owns IDEmøbler. The Danish private equity fund Axcel is the majority shareholder in IDesign. The transaction comprised the sale of ILVA’s activities and stores in Denmark and Sweden. Audon Partners advised the sellers.
The acquisition of BabySam – Denmark’s largest retail chain in baby equipment comprising 31 stores and 12 owners. The BabySam chain was acquired jointly by two private equity funds, Danish Polaris Private Equity and Northern Europe-based AAC Capital Partners, in what has been characterized as one the most complex transactions ever closed in Denmark. Audon Partners advised the buyers.
The sale of the Scandinavian market leader in fastener products and fastening techniques, Arvid Nilsson A/S, to the German Würth Group, the world’s largest trading company in fastening and assembling techniques. The owner of Arvid Nilsson A/S was the Arvid Nilsson Foundation. Audon Partners advised the seller.

Being in the business for more than 30 years, Audon Partners is one of Denmark’s most experienced M&A advisors. “Elected as the best Danish corporate finance advisor is a great honor for us and an affirmation that we are able to meet the strict professional demands placed upon us,” said Jonas P. Knudsen, Partner at Audon Partners.

Latitude Tree International Group Ltd. secures IPO for US$5.46 million

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Singapore Latitude Tree International Group Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of quality lifestyle wooden home furniture, with a product range focused on Collection Sets. It is the largest exporter of wooden furniture in Vietnam (2006 to 2008). The Group’s products are manufactured in Vietnam at two production facilities with a total built-up area of 232,342 square meters. The main product categories are bedroom, dining room and living room Collection Sets, amongst others. Most of its customers are based in the USA and Canada, with the bulk of its products exported to the USA. Latitude Tree International Group Ltd is a subsidiary of Latitude Tree Holdings Berhad, a company listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. M&A International Inc.’s member in Singapore, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd., was the manager and sponsor for the initial public offering of Latitude Tree International Group Ltd on SGX Catalist in Singapore.

Kale Group sells its iMeter subsidiary to Dresser

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:14:00 +0200

Netherlands │ Turkey iMeter B.V., based in the Netherlands, manufactures and markets rotary and turbine gas meters, meter instrumentation and meter calibration systems for the global natural gas industry. iMeter is known for its innovative product design capabilities and engineering expertise. Prior to the divestment, iMeter was part of Kale Group’s energy business unit Kale Enerji. Founded in 1957, the Turkish Kale Group is a global leader in the ceramic tile sector. The company’s ongoing investments have furthermore propelled it into a world-class player in the machinery, defense, chemical, electrical components, energy, information, transport, tourism and food sectors. Today, the Kale Group comprises 24 separate companies with a total workforce of more than 5,000 people. Its products are sold in 60 countries worldwide. Dresser, Inc. is a manufacturer and marketer of highly engineered equipment and specialized services sold primarily to customers in energy-related industries. The company's products include instruments, meters, piping specialties, natural gas-fueled engines, retail fuel dispensers, and outdoor payment and point-of-sale systems. Dresser is globally active, with sales in over 100 countries and approximately 6,400 employees worldwide. iMeter is expected to strengthen Dresser’s Meters & Instruments product portfolio for the global natural gas distribution and transmission markets. “We plan to build on iMeter’s engineering innovations by leveraging Dresser’s world-class manufacturing operations to supply iMeter products to our global customer base,” Dan Jezerinac, President of Dresser’s Infrastructure Solutions business, said. “The addition of iMeter’s Holland operation will allow us to improve our product offerings and delivery capabilities for European and Asian customers, and will broaden our product offerings for customers in the Americas.” M&A International Inc.’s Dutch member, Holland Corporate Finance, worked closely with the alliance’s Turkish member, PDF Corporate Finance, in successfully closing this transaction.

More than 200 meetings at G8 Young Business Summit

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:48:00 +0200

Stresa, 6 July 2009. M&A International Inc.’s member in Italy, Arietti & Partners, organized a panel discussion on M&A and innovation in addition to one-to-one meetings with young entrepreneurs during the Forum di Stresa.

The Italian team of M&A International Inc., Arietti & Partners, was platinum sponsor of the G8 Young Business Summit in Stresa (Italy) held 2–3 July 2009. The team organized a panel discussion on M&A as a tool for innovation, followed by more than 200 bilateral meetings between young entrepreneurs and M&A International Inc. advisors.

The event, which took place at the Regina Palace Hotel, was attended by 80 delegates, primarily under-40 entrepreneurs from Italy and other G8 countries, private equity funds and legal advisors.

A panel of experts from M&A International Inc. participated in “Innovation and Growth through Cross-border M&A”, a discussion moderated by Manuele Musso, Managing Director of Space 2000. M&A International Inc. was represented by Attilio Arietti (Italy), Hans Bethge (Germany), James S. Cassel (USA), Doru Lionachescu (Romania) and Christopher Scales (Spain).

The key conclusion from the panel was that merger and acquisition transactions can be more than a shortcut to innovation. By acquiring (or merging with) a company that has the technology, the products, the distribution channels and the market knowledge that would normally take years to develop, the acquiror is very often securing little more than a time advantage. When immediate measures need to be taken to innovate, M&A can in fact be the most effective (and only) option available.

The current economic situation has affected the multiples applicable to transactions and company evaluations, leading to reductions that are hard to understand and, therefore, not accepted by sellers. However, that can be a unique opportunity for those companies interested in international expansion and “acquiring innovation”, taking advantage of the lower prices.

After the debate, Italian and international delegates met other entrepreneurs and M&A International Inc. advisors in 25-minute one-to-one meetings to discuss working together, strategies and international expansion opportunities. This ‘speed dating’ format has been successfully developed by M&A International Inc. in its annual M&A Mid-Market Forum www.midmarketforum.com, the 8th edition held in Milan last autumn.

Attilio Arietti, Chairman of M&A International Inc., commented: “I am glad to have met and introduced these young entrepreneurs to my international colleagues. They proved to be very dynamic, willing to follow innovative paths and open to M&A transactions. The bilateral meetings have given an international insight to the business strategies of these entrepreneurs.”

For more information about the event and a picture gallery, please visit www.mergers.it

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Distressed assets present an opportunity in European M&A sector

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:38:00 +0200

Dublin, 30 June 2009. The European M&A market has fallen back significantly from its peak in 2007 with private equity deals falling by 59 percent in 2008 as the trouble in debt markets curtailed many leveraged deals. Corporates with strong balance sheets and cash-rich private equity firms can take advantage of companies disposing of non-core subsidiaries writes Ted Webb, Joint Managing Director of M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance.

2008 proved to be a tumultuous year for mergers and acquisitions in Europe. Following the crash of the financial markets in September 2008 and the infiltration of the credit crunch into the real economy, it is hardly surprising that the value and volume of M&A activity has fallen from the dizzy heights seen in 2007.

Recent statistics from M&A intelligence provider, mergermarket, show that total European deal values have declined from a peak of €428bn in Q2 2007 to just €173bn in the last quarter. While the volume of M&A activity held steady for the first half of the year, there was a significant fall-off in the last two quarters of 2008 with just over 800 deals in Q4, a level not seen since 2003.

Across Europe, the UK and Ireland accounted for almost a quarter of all deals in 2008 while the other major European economies of Germany, France and Italy recorded around 10 per cent of deals each. Central and Eastern Europe continues to see a significant volume of deals, accounting for 13 per cent of activity.

The outlook for the European economy is far from rosy and the downward trend in the M&A cycle is likely to continue from its 2007 peak. Turbulent equity markets mean that the appetite for acquisitions was much reduced in the latter part of 2008 and whether these stabilize throughout 2009 will play a big part in determining levels of M&A activity.

The largest announced deal in Europe in 2008 was BHP Billiton’s failed €130bn attempt to acquire Rio Tinto – this signaled the peak of the commodities bubble and was the last of the “super” deals. It seems this was only one of many deals which fell victim to the uncertainty in the markets as pricing disputes developed.

In addition to funding difficulties, competition authority conditions also proved to be an insurmountable obstacle for this deal. It is, however, worth keeping an eye on competition rulings in the new deal making landscape. It could be that various banking tie-ups have set precedents whereby competition considerations are relaxed to assist deal making in key sectors. M&A opportunities may arise in 2009 in situations where previously there would have existed an anti-trust brick wall.

For the second year running, the financial services sector accounted for the highest aggregate value of M&A activity in 2008 with almost 30 per cent of the total. However, this is not testament to a buoyant M&A environment, but rather to dramatic government bailouts of banks globally.

Being a cyclical sector and coupled with the lack of confidence in the market currently, it is unsurprising that the consumer space has been affected by the economic downturn. Nevertheless, consumer deals still accounted for a sizeable 21 per cent of overall deal value in Europe. This included some large deals such as Pernod-Ricard’s €5.6bn acquisition of Vin & Sprit, taking over Absolut Vodka, the company’s flagship brand, and Inbev’s €36.8bn hostile takeover of Anheuser-Busch, creating the largest brewer in the world.

One of the more resilient sectors in Europe in deal making terms was energy, mining and utilities (which accounted for 17 per cent of overall value). A recent PwC report shows that electricity and gas deal values only fell 13 per cent by target and 20 per cent by bidder compared with the 41 per cent drop in power deal value worldwide. European bidder numbers rose by a third, reflecting the continued appetite for consolidation. However, apart from French company EDF’s expansion of its nuclear footprint, there was an absence of mega deals internationally, such as those made by E.ON, Enel, Iberdrola and National Power in previous years. The credit crunch has coincided with a natural pause for breath as companies integrate previous acquisitions.

The Candover Private Equity Barometer 2008 report paints a suitably gloomy picture of European private equity investment activity, with a total value of €87bn representing a near 59 per cent decline against the record total of €198bn seen in 2007.

However, the death knell for the industry may not have sounded just yet. The slide in activity terms was fairly moderate with just 14 per cent fewer private equity deals in 2008 compared to 2007 and still ahead of the 2006 mark. This suggests a hard core in the market with the resources and the desire to continue to seek out investments.

Those private equity firms with cash reserves are prepared to inject equity into companies if they are satisfied with strategy. However, more equity will have to be committed in the future as the lack of debt finance continues to hamper the volume and size of deals being done.

With many companies predicted to struggle, the growth of distressed assets is likely to be a feature of 2009. For the M&A community, this will mean opportunities as undervalued assets begin to look attractive, particularly to large corporates with conservative balance sheets or cash-rich private equity firms. However, since there will be a glut of distressed assets in the market, it will be vital to selectively choose fundamentally sound businesses with proven revenue streams in order to be well-positioned for the eventual recovery.

We will see profitable, non-core subsidiary disposals over the coming months as corporates have begun to accept that peak sale values will not return anytime soon and they themselves choose to focus on core operations.

There will also be opportunities for financial advisers to work with companies needing to alter their capital structures, whether requiring new external finance or a restructuring involving existing stakeholders.

2009 will be a year of obstacles and opportunities. The speed and depth of the recession will dictate how quickly, if at all, activity picks up in the year ahead.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Bank Hapoalim raises US$400 million in bonds

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:32:00 +0200

Israel Bank Hapoalim is Israel’s leading financial services group. The bank offers diverse services ranging from general banking to complex financing of large scale projects. Operating over the last 87 years, the bank has developed a branch network and extensive commercial activity in all areas of banking. With over 14,000 employees, it is the largest in the Israeli banking industry in terms of credit portfolio size, asset volume and the volume of equity capital. The group also operates abroad via branches, representative offices and subsidiaries.

In 2007, the Israeli government set up a new capital adequacy ratio for banks to be completed by the end of 2009. In order to comply with the new regulatory requirement, the bank is expected to increase its capital base. Despite the downturn in the capital markets, the bank succeeded in raising bonds worth US$400 million at an attractive rate. In order to fully comply with the new requirements, the bank is expected to raise more capital in a similar format by the end of 2009.

M&A International Inc.’s Israeli member, Rosario Capital, was a member of the underwriting consortium in this transaction.

Industex acquires Best Direct (International) Ltd.

Fri, 01 May 2009 09:32:00 +0200

Spain │ United Kingdom Founded in 1991, Best Direct is a leading television shopping channel operator in the UK. With an international reach covering Austria, Belgium, Germany, Holland, Japan, Switzerland, the UK and US, Best Direct sells innovative household products that are either developed in-house or sourced on an exclusive basis from a variety of trusted suppliers. Industex develops, markets and distributes mass appeal consumer products worldwide through multiple channels of distribution, including Direct Response TV. The sale of Best Direct is the culmination of a long working relationship between M&A International Inc.’s London-based member, Cavendish Corporate Finance, and the Best Direct shareholders, which started with the successful sale of their interests in William Levene Ltd in 2006. Adhering to the client's specific requirements, our member conducted an expedited full sale exercise, including buyers from around the world and several different sectors within the media industry. Industex was identified early in the sale process as a strategic acquiror that was looking to break into the UK market.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:11:00 +0200

Atlanta, 18 April 2009. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has expanded its global footprint to 39 countries with the admission of three new member firms: PrimePartners Corporate Finance from Singapore, Rosario Capital from Israel and Stratus Group from Brazil. For M&A International Inc., the admission of these three firms represents a major step forward in its ability to advise clients on a global basis and extends its reach into Asia, South America and the Middle East. About PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte Ltd
Since its start in January 2003, PPCF has focused on providing M&A advisory services, financial advice and raising capital for the owners and managers of medium-sized companies operating domestically and regionally in Asia.
www.primepartners.com.sg About Rosario Capital Ltd.
Rosario Capital is a leading investment banking house headquartered in Israel. The firm is one of Israel’s primary specialists in public and private equity offering. It provides expert merger and acquisition and corporate finance advisory services to leading Israeli companies, including market research, fairness opinions and company valuations, financial structuring and fundraising.
www.rosario-capital.co.il About Stratus Group
Founded in 1999, Stratus Group is an independent firm focused on M&A, private equity and financial advisory with a strategic focus on the middle market. Stratus operates under a process driven culture, with its compliance in line with international practices.
www.stratusbr.com About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 44 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion.
www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Recognizing members’ achievements

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:06:00 +0200

Atlanta, 18 April 2009. M&A International Inc. celebrated its annual awards to members during its spring conference held in Atlanta, USA. In the beautiful facilities of the Ansley Golf Club, nine sector awards were announced as well as ‘Deal of the Year’ and ‘Member of the Year’ for 2008. From over 258 deals closed in 2008, Deal of the Year 2008 went to M&A International Inc.’s Spanish member, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, for advising Telvent on its acquisition of DTN Holding Company, Inc. M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp., assisted in this transaction, which is the 4th transaction our members have closed for Telvent. Member of the Year 2008 was awarded to M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp. The award was based on a member’s M&A contribution to generating cross-border deal flow. Sector awards Automotive Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Chicago, MASI Ltd., for advising on a buy mandate for Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd.
Lead advisor: Jack Campbell Business Support Services Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, for advising on a buy mandate for Premier Group.
Lead advisor: John Tuite Construction & Engineering Services Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., for advising on a buy mandate for New Enterprise Stone & Lime, Inc.
Lead advisor: Murray Beach Energy Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Belgium, Capital Advice, for advising on a buy mandate for Electrawinds.
Lead advisor: Alex Vandekerckhove Food & Beverage Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Finland, Merasco Capital Ltd., assisted by M&A International Inc.’s Spanish member, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, for advising on a buy mandate for Atria Oyj.
Lead advisor: Ulf Rosenlöf Healthcare Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., assisted by M&A International Inc.’s British member, Cavendish Corporate Finance, for advising on a sale mandate for Dinex Holdings, Inc.
Lead advisor: Michael Goldman Logistics Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Norway, Bridgehead AS, for advising on a sale mandate for the LogIT Gruppen AS.
Lead advisor: Harald Valved Retail Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Denmark, Audon Partners A/S, for advising on a buy mandate for Polaris Private Equity and AAC Capital Partners.
Lead advisor: Jonas P. Knudsen Technology Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Spain, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, assisted by M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., for advising on a buy mandate for Telvent.
Lead advisor: José F. Alvarez About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 44 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion.
www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales +34 678 54 933 mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 64 67 40 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Hitachi Consulting acquires London-based Edenbrook Ltd.

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:02:00 +0200

United Kingdom │ United States Hitachi Consulting is the global business and IT consulting arm of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE: HIT, TSE: 6501), with offices throughout the United States, Asia and Europe. Hitachi Consulting retained M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp., and our member in the UK, Smith & Williamson Corporate Finance Limited, to assist with its acquisition strategy to strengthen service offerings and geographic reach in Europe.

Edenbrook Ltd., based in London, is an IT consultancy that helps organizations to evaluate, select, and implement advanced IT solutions using technologies such as ERP, CRM and Business Intelligence.

Our member in Boston assisted Hitachi Consulting in identifying and pursuing select business and IT strategy consulting targets in Europe, as well as structuring and negotiating the terms of the transaction. With the highest partnership status of Microsoft and Oracle, Edenbrook is expected to significantly strengthen Hitachi Consulting’s practice in the UK, particularly in these key focus areas.

M&A International Inc. member Capital Partners voted “Financial Advisor of the Year” in Romania

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 22:56:00 +0100

March 2009. M&A International Inc.’s Romanian member Capital Partners has been voted Financial Advisor of the Year by a select panel of specialists at the 4th edition of the Business Review Investment Awards Gala event.

Northern Ireland Electricity sells its subsidiary System Operator Northern Ireland Ltd. to EirGrid plc

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 09:27:00 +0100

Ireland │ United Kingdom M&A International Inc.’s Irish member advised Northern Ireland Electricity plc (NIE) on the disposal of its subsidiary, System Operator Northern Ireland Ltd (SONI), to EirGrid plc (EirGrid).

In its role as the electricity Transmission System Operator (TSO) in Northern Ireland, SONI is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure and economic operation of the electricity transmission network in Northern Ireland. It is located in Castlereagh, southeast of Belfast. SONI and EirGrid, the TSO in the Republic of Ireland, are already partners in the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO) joint venture, which carries out the role of market operator for the all-island wholesale Single Electricity Market. EirGrid was established in 2006 as the independent state-owned company responsible for the operation of the national grid. EirGrid has extensive international experience, including consultancy work in the US and Europe and as Transmission Administrator in Alberta, Canada for a number of years. The sale was consistent with the agreement reached by NIE with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation to divest SONI in order to further enhance the independence of the TSO in Northern Ireland. Completion of the deal followed changes to the licenses of both SONI and EirGrid, which were approved by the regulatory authorities following a public consultation process.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance rated “Top Financial Advisor for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland” by Corpfin

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:40:00 +0100

January 2009. IBI Corporate Finance advised on more deals in 2008 than any of its rivals in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, according to the latest figures from Corpfin, the global M&A analyst, which is part of Experian Group. IBI Corporate Finance, which has offices in Belfast and Dublin, advised on 12 announced deals (valued at Stg£500,000 plus) in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in 2008.

International review ranks M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance as “Top Irish Corporate Finance Firm for 2008”

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:54:00 +0100

January 2009. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 corporate finance advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international M&A activity by specialist M&A publisher, mergermarket. This is the fourth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1.

IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 11 qualifying deals in 2008. The company was also ranked top in 2007, 2006 and 2005 with 14, 19 and 14 qualifying deals respectively.

Commenting on the announcement, Roisin Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: "The drivers behind corporate transactions changed during 2008 but the appetite to do deals remained high and we expect that to continue through 2009. Consolidation is likely to become more and more important as companies seek economies of scale in a more difficult environment. We also expect that well-resourced companies will take advantage of the lower valuations that now apply to expand their interests and lay the foundations for future growth."

Record number of delegates meet to discuss M&A and generate deal opportunities

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:12:00 +0100

Milan, 21 November 2008. Alberto Alesina, Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University, comments on future prospects during the 8th M&A Mid-Market Forum held in Milan. The 8th M&A International Inc. Mid-Market Forum, held in Milan, Italy on 21 November, was attended by over 350 senior industrialists, M&A advisors and bankers. Professor Alberto Alesina opened the Forum by sharing his views on the current global financial crisis. He noted that the crisis has generated a large anti-market reaction and even a more anti-liberism retort, with talk of the end of capitalism, the death of the financial system, the return to state intervention, the end of globalization and state supremacy over the market. However, noting that the past 20 years have seen a level of economic stability and growth never previously experienced, Professor Alesina expressed optimism that the combined efforts being made by both developed and developing economies would see a relatively quick return to stability and growth. Following Professor Alesina’s presentation, a panel of experts from Thomson Reuters, UniCredit, the Hay Group, and Arietti & Associati considered potential measures which could be taken to promote growth and allow confidence to return to the markets. The audience of over 350 industrialists, advisors and senior bankers also expressed their views on these measures via a live voting system. The key conclusions were:

Taxation policy has limited ability to immediately resolve the current crisis
The Private Equity industry will not be shut down by the credit crunch
Corporates will continue to prefer acquisitions over organic expansion to achieve growth
Many of the recent, hastily put-together acquisitions will have significant problems regarding integration
M&A opportunities will be greatest in China, and Central and Eastern Europe

The record number of attendees at the 8th M&A Mid-Market Forum clearly indicates that despite the current market situation, the appetite for doing deals remains high. The event focuses on generating M&A deal activity, and is based on a “speed-dating format”. In total over 1,300 one-to-one meetings were held during the Forum. --------- END --------- Notes
Alberto Alesina Professor of Political Economy – Harvard University
Alberto Alesina, born in Italy in 1957, is the Nathaniel Ropes Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University. He served as Chairman of the Department of Economics from 2003–2006. He obtained his PhDfrom Harvard in 1986. He is also a member of the National Bureau of Economic Research and the Center for Economic Policy Research. He is a leader in the field of Political Economics and has published extensively in all major academic journals in economics. He has published five books and edited many more. His two most recent books are The Future of Europe: Reform or Decline and Fighting Poverty in the US and Europe: A World of Difference, published by Oxford University Press. He has been a Co-Editor of the Quarterly Journal of Economics for eight years and Associate Editor of many academic journals. He has published columns in many leading newspapers around the world and has visited several institutions including MIT, Tel Aviv University, University of Stockholm, The World Bank and the IMF. About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures.

Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales +34 678 54 933 mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 64 67 40 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3rd annual M&A International Inc. Media Awards 2008

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:59:00 +0100

13 journalists from 7 countries awarded First placed winners: Michael Flaherty and Jonathan Keehner (Hong Kong, New York, Reuters)
Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing (Sweden, Affärsvärlden)
Sarah Young (UK, Acquisitions Monthly)
Neil Hume (UK, Financial Times) Milan, 21 November 2008. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisory and investment banking firms with 41 members operating in 39 countries, is pleased to announce the winners of the third M&A International Media Awards. In total, 13 journalists from 7 countries were awarded prizes during the gala dinner of the annual M&A Mid-Market Forum, held on 21 November in Milan, Italy. The winning articles were selected by an independent jury from over 200 articles submitted by 126 journalists from 24 countries. The M&A International Media Awards recognize the achievements of journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the understanding and professional analysis of the global mergers and acquisitions market. The prize money of US$12,000 is divided across three categories each with a first, second and third place, recognizing incisive and independent comment that upholds the journalistic principles of accuracy and objectivity. These unprecedented awards are a global reference for excellence in M&A journalism. A special prize was also awarded to the best scoop article across all three media categories. The winners are: General Print Press and News Agencies - English language 1st    LBO exposure may hit Bear Stearns, Lehman
Reuters, 03.08.2007
Michael Flaherty, Hong Kong and Jonathan Keehner, New York 2nd    Google slams Microsoft - Yahoo bid
The Globe and Mail, 04.02.2008
Matt Hartley, Canada 3rd    Delta Two in Pounds 12bn move on Sainsbury
Financial Times, 18.07.2007
Lina Saigol, UK General Print Press and News Agencies - other languages 1st    En osannolik affär (An Unbelievable Deal)
Affärsvärlden, 03.10.2007
Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing, Sweden 2nd    La Fiesta de la liquidez pasa factura al corazón financiero
(The liquidity party makes the claim on the heart of the financial industry)
El Economista, 04.12.2007
Pedro Calvo, Spain 3rd    Rolle Vorwärts (Rolling Forward)
Handelsblatt, 30.06.2008
Hans G. Nagl, Germany Trade Press and Electronic Media - all languages 1st    Pharmaceuticals - Losing their grip
Acquisitions Monthly, 01.06.2008
Sarah Young, UK 2nd    Not so fair trade
FinanceAsia, 01.04.2008
Sameera Anand, Hong Kong 3rd    Yahoo ripe for a shake-up
breakingviews.com, 17.01.2008
Rob Cox and Jeff Segal, USA Special Award for the Best Scoop Article - all languages Bud and Becks
Financial Times - Alphaville, 23.05.2008
Neil Hume, UK Note to editors:
A book of this year’s winning articles is available for download below. About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net About the M&A International Media Awards
The M&A International Media Awards are the first and only global media awards for journalists reporting on mergers and acquisitions. The winners are selected by an independent international jury of M&A professionals, academics and senior journalists: Dr. Hans Bethge, M&A International Inc. (Germany); Prof. Umberto Bocchino, Studio Bocchino (Italy); John Jay, New Star (UK); N.K. Misra, Tata Steel (India); Matthew Porzio, IntraLinks Inc. (USA); Raimon Segura de Lassaletta, Cuatrecasas (Spain); David Shirreff, The Economist (UK/Germany); Howard E. Steinberg, McDermott Will & Emery (USA); Dr. Hong Zhang, Deutsche Bank Institute (China). Comments on winning articles
LBO exposure may hit Bear Stearns, Lehman
Reuters, 03.08.2007 by Michael Flaherty, Hong Kong and Jonathan Keehner, New York Michael Flaherty's and Jonathan Keehner’s article pointed out the danger Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers faced with their exposure to leveraged loans they made to the private equity industry. They indicated that while subprime exposure was a concern at both banks, their loan portfolios only worsened their plight. The article was written at the very beginning of August last year and proved to be devastatingly correct. En osannolik affär (An Unbelievable Deal)
Affärsvärlden, 03.10.2007 by Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing, Sweden This article explored the bidding war for the Nordic exchange group OMX. Anna and Anders mapped out the struggle behind the scenes and the characters involved through a detailed chronology that makes you feel like you are living the experience. This was a fascinating and well researched piece. Comment from Affarsvarlden:
“We are incredibly happy to receive this award, considering the high quality of the competition and since the M&A world and large merger processes are at the heart of Affärsvärldens coverage. The OMX story was especially interesting and challenging since it brought a small Nordic exchange group to center stage of the financial world. It contained everything from world politics to a personal vendetta between two old friends.” Pharmaceuticals - Losing their grip
Acquisitions Monthly, 01.06.2008 by Sarah Young, UK This article was written in June and explored how the traditional model for pharmaceutical companies is broken and how new drug development increasingly comes from biotechs whilst pharmaceuticals morph into acquisitive sales and marketing giants. Bud and Becks
Financial Times - Alphaville, 23.05.2008 by Neil Hume, UK Neil Hume's winning article looked at InBev's rumored takeover approach for Anheuser-Busch. In landing the full details of InBev's plans, Neil managed to break the news on the largest ever all-cash takeover involving a truly iconic American company. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 93 209 22 00, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3rd annual M&A International Media Awards

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:00:00 +0200

18 September 2008. M&A International Inc. (MAI), the world’s leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisory and investment banking firms with 41 members operating in 40 countries, announced today that the close of entry for submissions for the M&A International Media Awards 2008 has been extended to 26 September 2008. The prize money totals US$12,000 and will be divided across three categories each with a first, second and third place. Detailed conditions of entry including the electronic entry form are available on MAI’s website. MAI has established sophisticated procedures which allow journalists reporting on mergers and acquisitions around the globe to submit their original articles in any language. Hans Bethge, Vice President of M&A International Inc., said: “Last year 115 journalists from 24 countries submitted 223 articles for the M&A International Media Awards. Rewarding intelligent and incisive comment that upholds the journalistic principles of accuracy and objectivity, this unprecedented prize is the truly global reference for excellence in M&A journalism.” Award-winning articles from the last two years were published in leading publications such as the Financial Times, International Herald Tribune, Reuters, The Sunday Times, Private Equity International, Finance Asia, Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin (Denmark), Neue Zuercher Zeitung (Switzerland), Economy (Italy) and Finance (Germany). MAI awards individual journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the understanding and professional analysis of the global mergers and acquisitions market. The awards cover the “big ticket” deals as well as the rapidly growing mid-market M&A activities. The jury focuses on well-researched deal reports and comprehensive market analysis by regions or industries, although scoops and commentaries can also be rewarded. MAI will accept entries from journalists writing for internationally distributed print media in English as well as for leading business newspapers and magazines in their home countries in English or local languages. Articles published by news agencies or electronic trade media will also be accepted excluding broadcast reporting (television or radio). Submitted articles must have been published between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008. The number of entries is limited to three articles per journalist. The prize will be awarded in three categories by an independent specialist jury under the criteria content, quality of research and style. The categories are:

General print press and news agencies – English language (1st–3rd prize)
General print press and news agencies – other languages (1st–3rd prize)
Trade print and electronic media – all languages (1st–3rd prize)

A special prize will be awarded to the best scoop article across all three media categories. The winners will be invited to join the 8th annual M&A Mid Market Forum (MMF), a leading global industry event attended by 400 M&A professionals from more than 35 countries (www.midmarketforum.com). This year, the MMF will take place in Milan on 21 November 2008. The winners will receive their prize during the event’s gala dinner. Winners of the first place for each of the three categories will be awarded US$1,500 (plus travel expenses to Milan plus accommodation). Second place awards will receive US$1,000 (plus accommodation) and US$1,000 for third place. The best scoop article across all three media categories will be awarded US$1,500 (plus travel expenses and accommodation). Senior M&A experts from all regions of the world representing business, the academic world and the media will serve on the jury. The jury members are: Dr. Hans Bethge, M&A International Inc. (Germany); Prof. Umberto Bocchino, Studio Bocchino (Italy); John Jay, New Star (UK); N.K. Misra, Tata Steel (India); Matthew Porzio, IntraLinks Inc. (USA); Raimon Segura de Lassaletta, Cuatrecasas (Spain); David Shirreff, The Economist (UK); Howard E. Steinberg, McDermott Will & Emery (USA); Dr. Hong Zhang, Deutsche Bank Institute (China). For further information, please contact: Northoff.Com Public Relations, Frankfurt/Main,
Karoline Lazaj, +49 (0)69 952977-00 (-40 direct), mai@northoff.com Penrose Financial, London
Andrew Nicolls, +44 (0)20 7786 4881, andrewn@penrose.co.uk About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net.

Euromoney awards M&A International Inc. member GILD Bankers “Best M&A House in Estonia”

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 16:31:00 +0200

August 2008. Prominent international finance magazine Euromoney recognised an M&A International Inc. member and leading independent Baltic investment bank GILD Bankers as the Best M&A House in Estonia in the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2008. Euromoney cited a number of innovative and market leading transactions with a total value of €163.8 milion in the assessed period. In awarding GILD Bankers this prestigious award, Euromoney recognized the impressive track record of GILD Bankers across a number of sectors: “With transaction activity across the online media, real estate and retail sectors, GILD is rapidly gaining a name for itself in Estonia’s buzzing M&A market.” In 2007, GILD Bankers completed several landmark transactions in online media, for example arranging the sale of popular web portals auto24.ee and www.cvkeskus.ee. In addition, GILD advised the leading pan-Baltic car retail group ELKE in the sale of shares to Amber Trust, the leading distributor of alcoholic beverages in the Baltics L.I.O.N. & Ko in the sale to Liviko and Olympic Entertainment Group, the leading gaming and entertainment group in CEE, in acquiring casino operator Kristiine Kasiino. In 2007, the GILD Investment Banking team was involved in 17 advisory projects with the total value of over €380 million whereas 11 of them were mergers and acquisitons. Since 1999, GILD has advised and successfully completed more than 130 transactions with a combined value of around €3 billion. GILD Bankers has been a member of the world's leading M&A alliance, M&A International Inc. for 5 years.

Initial Public Offering of Agrowill Group launched

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 09:50:00 +0100

Vilnius, March 2008. Agrowill Group (Group), the largest agricultural group in Lithuania, announces its Initial Public Offering (IPO) which will commence on Monday, 17 March. The offering consists of a public offering to all non-professional investors in Lithuania only and an institutional offering to all professional investors outside the United States. The Securities Commission of Lithuania has approved the prospectus of Agrowill Group; also, the Group has already applied to the Vilnius Stock Exchange for conditional listing of Agrowill Group shares on the bourse’s Official List.

From the 17th of March until the 27th of March retail and institutional investors in Lithuania and institutional investors abroad (outside the USA) are invited to subscribe for approximately 25% or 6,777,777 new shares of the Group (including the overallotment option). M&A International Inc. member firm GILD Bankers acts as the lead manager and bookrunner of the offering, joined by financial brokerage company Finasta as a co-lead manager and underwriter; Nordic investment bank Öhman is a placement agent in the Scandinavian countries. Agrowill Group plans to become the first publicly traded agricultural company in the Baltic states.

“Agrowill Group currently holds a strong position on the local market. Furthermore, we see ample possibilities for profitable growth both in Lithuania and abroad. All in all, we believe, this IPO presents an exceptional investment opportunity,” Valentas Šulskis, CEO of Agrowill Group, said.

The offering price of Agrowill Group shares is in the range of between LTL 4.50 and LTL 5.50 (between €1.3033 and €1.5930) per share. The offered shares will be sold to investors on the condition that the main shares of the offering (6,100,000) are placed.

“We believe that the IPO of the agricultural company is a great opportunity for investors to take advantage of the growing prices of agricultural commodities. Both local and global demand for agricultural products is on the rise. Centralized management of several farms allows the Group to increase efficiency and value of the Group by modernising its farms and applying best practices across the board. In addition to that, the Group has a clear vision of expansion not only in Lithuania, but also in the “black earth” regions of Russia, Ukraine and Moldova.

We’re proud to be leading this exciting transaction" Šarūnas Skyrius, partner and head of the Capital Markets Group at the M&A International Inc. member firm GILD Bankers, said in a statement.

Following a successful expansion of dairy farms and crop fields last year, Agrowill Group expects its consolidated operating sales to grow 36% and reach LTL 58 million in 2008, with its EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) expected to rise by 46% to LTL 23 million. The Group's net profit is targeted at almost 20% higher, at LTL 11.5 million.

According to unaudited data for 2007, the sales of Agrowill Group from main operations (excluding property revaluation according to IFRS) totalled LTL 43 million (€12.45 million), up by 57% year-on-year, while its net profit from main operating activities grew almost three-fold to reach LTL 9.8 million (€2.84 million).

www.agrowill.lt For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

International online auction company acquires Moonfish Media

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 09:46:00 +0100

Tallinn, March 2008. The new owner of Estonian internet company Moonfish Media is Tradus Limited, the leading European provider of online consumer trading platforms belonging to the multinational media group Naspers. Tradus is initially acquiring a 51% stake of the company with an option to purchase up to 100% over the next 3-4 years. The existing management will continue to run the business and become part of the Tradus group. M&A International Inc.'s Baltic member firm GILD Bankers advised the owners of Moonfish Media in the sale of the company. Raivo Hein, co-founder and Board member of Moonfish Media is very satisfied with the reached agreement: “We are delighted to be joining the Tradus group and feel that we are a perfect fit into the Tradus portfolio of trading platforms. I am excited by the prospect of working with the Tradus team to leverage their expertise to continue to build the Moonfish businesses. It is also noteworthy that as a result of this deal, one of the largest electronic and print media enterprises has entered to the Baltic markets.” Tarmo Jüristo, partner at the M&A International Inc. member GILD Bankers added: ”We are also glad that one of the most successful Estonian internet media companies has found an international and high-profile investor. We are confident that this cooperation will lead to new exciting projects.” In Estonia, Moonfish Media operates Osta.ee, the leading online auction website and KV.ee, the No. 2 real estate classifieds web portal. In Lithuania, Moonfish Media operates the No. 1 and No. 2 real estate classified sites, Aruodas.lt and Edomus.lt as well as Skelbiu.lt, the No. 1 general classifieds site. Tradus Limited offers its services in twelve European countries. Tradus Limited was recently acquired by Naspers, a multinational media company with principal operations in electronic media and print media in South Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Greece, Cyprus, the Netherlands, the United States, Thailand, India and China. The M&A International Inc. member firm GILD Bankers is the leading independent investment bank in the Baltic region with offices in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Bulgaria and United Kingdom. The team advises on mergers and acquisitions, arranges capital raisings, manages alternative funds and offers private banking services. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

A record third “Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year Award” for M&A International Inc. member Cavendish

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:12:00 +0100

January 2008. M&A International Inc.'s member in the UK, Cavendish Corporate Finance, has begun its 20th anniversary year in dazzling style by achieving the enviable accolade of winning its third Corporate Finance Boutique award in twelve months; the firm picked up the Acquisitions Monthly award at the London ceremony last night (22 January 2008). Against strong competition, the Awards’ panel of judges praised Cavendish’s innovative and thorough approach to deal making. Particular mention was made of both Cavendish’s Exit Review plan, which is aimed specifically at enhancing value and positioning businesses for sale during the 6–18 months prior to commencing a sale exercise, and the firm’s active involvement as a member of M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance. During 2007 Cavendish was named ‘Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year’ at the BVCA Real Deals Private Equity Awards in April, and collected the Private Equity News Award for ‘Excellence in Advisory Services’ in October. Howard Leigh, Managing Director of Cavendish, commented:
“Like buses, after 20 years we win 3 in a row! This is a great way to start our 20th birthday celebrations.” “2007 has been an outstanding year for Cavendish with 30 successfully completed deals, many of which have been undertaken with the major private equity houses.” Cavendish was established in 1988 as a specialist M&A boutique and since then has completed the sale of some 400 businesses. As a vendor-only specialist, Cavendish is ideally placed to help entrepreneurs and other business owners achieve their objectives.

M&A International Inc. members combine to create leading independent investment and merchant bank

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 18:42:00 +0100

New York, 7 January 2008. TM Capital Corp. (TM), one of the leading privately held investment and merchant banking firms in North America, and Boston Corporate Finance, Inc. (BCF), a technology-focused investment bank based in Westwood, MA, announced today that the firms have merged effective 1 January 2008. The combination creates a pre-eminent independent investment banking firm providing its global roster of clients with a wide range of mergers and acquisitions, financing and advisory services. The firm will operate under the TM Capital name from offices in New York, Boston and Atlanta, and include all of the current partners of TM and BCF. Both TM Capital and BCF are M&A International Inc. member firms. With 42 offices in 38 countries and completed transactions in 2007 valued in excess of $19 billion, M&A International Inc. is the world’s most formidable alliance of mergers & acquisitions firms. Murray Beach, President of BCF, also serves as the Chairman of M&A International Inc.. Since its founding in 1989, TM Capital has advised an impressive roster of public and private client companies on a broad variety of strategic merger, acquisition and financing engagements aggregating over $10 billion in value. BCF, founded in 2002, has leveraged its technology focus and expertise to complete a wide range of transactions for an international client base, including some of the world’s leading technology companies. Upon completion of the merger, Jim Grien was appointed President of TM Capital and Murray Beach and Brad Adams were named Managing Directors. Other Managing Directors of the firm include Michael Goldman, Alex Mammen, Jerome Romano, Paul Smolevitz and Greg Robertson, who also serves as Chairman. The firm has approximately 30 professionals and collaborates with over 400 M&A International investment bankers around the globe. "We are thrilled to welcome the partners, employees and clients of BCF to our firm,” said Jim Grien, President of TM Capital. “We're proud of our achievements at TM Capital and are confident that the combined resources, knowledge and relationships of our organization will substantially expand our capabilities on behalf of our global client base." "As founder of BCF, my colleagues and I are excited to be joining TM Capital, which has an unmatched reputation for achieving superior results in complex merger, acquisition and financing assignments,” said Murray Beach, Managing Director of TM Capital. “The combination of TM’s expertise with our technology focus and our joint global reach provides a compelling platform for our clients and our professionals." “Our association with the principals of BCF extends over almost two decades, and we’ve developed a strong relationship with Murray and his colleagues through our long-term affiliation as alliance partners in M&A International Inc.,” said Greg Robertson, Chairman of TM Capital. “We’re pleased to be joining forces with such an outstanding group of professionals.” In 2007, TM Capital and BCF completed 23 assignments for a variety of prominent client companies, including Eastman Kodak (NYSE), Hitachi Ltd. (Japan), V&S Group (Sweden), Smith & Wollensky (NASDAQ), B&G Foods (NYSE) and Telvent G.I.T. (Spain). TM Capital is a registered broker dealer with the SEC and in all 50 states, and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). More information about TM Capital Corp. may be found at www.tmcapital.com More information about M&A International Inc. may be found at www.mergers.net

International survey ranks IBI Corporate Finance as Ireland’s No. 1 corporate finance adviser for 2007

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 17:42:00 +0100

2 January 2008. M&A International Inc. member office in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, has been ranked as the No. 1 corporate finance adviser in Ireland by Mergermarket, the independent M&A intelligence provider, in its annual survey of corporate finance activity, published today. IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 14 qualifying deals in 2007. The 14 deals had a total collective value of over euro 790 million. The company was also ranked top in 2006 and 2005 with 19 and 14 qualifying deals respectively. The league tables rank the top ten domestic and international investment banks and corporate finance firms according to the number of announced M&A transactions in which they were involved during 2007. Transactions included for the purpose of the tables are those with a value over euro 5 million. Commenting on the figures, Róisín Brennan, Chief Executive, said: "This is the third year running in which IBI Corporate Finance has topped this table and it underlines our position at the forefront of the corporate finance market in Ireland. Deal volume remained high throughout 2007 despite changing economic conditions during the year. Clearly, 2008 will be a more challenging market for corporate finance given the more cautious economic outlook in Ireland and the tighter international debt markets. However, it’s likely that these changed circumstances will also create opportunities, particularly for companies with strong balance sheets, and we expect the market to remain strong through the year."

Ends

For further information contact

Ray Gordon
MRPA KINMAN Communications
Tel: 353 1 678 8330
Mob: 087 241 7373

Editors Note:

About IBI Corporate Finance

IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland’s leading corporate finance adviser, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies, covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions. IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group.

About Mergermarket

Through a network of analysts, Mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe and North America. Mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform to subscribers.

2nd ANNUAL M&A INTERNATIONAL MEDIA AWARDS 2007

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 23:16:00 +0100

11 JOURNALISTS FROM 7 COUNTRIES AWARDED
1st PLACED WINNERS:
JAMES POLITI and FRANCESCO GUERRERA (New York, Financial Times)
JOHANNES BØGGILD (Denmark, Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin)
MARKUS DENTZ (Germany, Finance),
GRANT RINGSHAW (London, Sunday Times)

M&A International Inc., the world’s leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisory and invest-ment banking firms (“MAI”) with 42 members in 38 countries, today announced the winners of the second M&A International Media Awards. The prizes were awarded during a gala dinner at the annual M&A Mid-Market Forum in Paris which was attended by more than 400 M&A professionals from 40 countries. The M&A International Media Awards recognise the achievements of individual journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the understanding and professional analysis of the global mergers and acquisitions market.

The winning journalists are:

Media category ‘General Print Press and News Agencies – English Language’

1st place: James Politi and Francesco Guerrera, New York, Financial Times
for “KKR and Blackstone jostle for top spot”, published May 14-16, 2007

2nd place: Alison Tudor, Tokyo/Japan, Reuters
for “Private Equity rolls up sleeves as Asia returns drop”, published October 20, 2006

3rd place: Lina Saigol, London, Financial Times
for “It’s time to stop league table obsession”, published April 23, 2007.

Media category ‘General Print Press and News Agencies – Other Languages’

1st place: Johannes Boeggild, Copenhagen/Denmark, Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin (Denmark)
for “Exclusive interview with the world’s Mr. Private Equity”, published November 24, 2006.

2nd place: Michael Ferber, Zurich/Switzerland, Neue Zuercher Zeitung
for “Wave of mergers and stock market rallye are twin sisters”, published May 5, 2007.

3rd place: Nicola Di Molfetta, Milan/Italy, Economy
for “Conquering the markets”, published August 9, 2006.

Media category ‘Trade Print Press and Electronic Media – All Languages’

1st place: Markus Dentz, Frankfurt/Germany, Finance
for “Helmut the Stubborn”, published April 2007.

2nd place: Eila Rana, London, CFO Europe
for “Public to Private”, published April 2007.

3rd place: John Close, New York, The M&A Journal
for “Spain’s Labyrinth: The endless pursuit of Endesa”, published March 24, 2007.

Special Award ‘Best Scoop Article – All Languages’

Grant Ringshaw, London, Sunday Times
for “Barclays in Pounds 80bn offer to ABN Amro”, published March 18, 2007.

“The great response to our second global M&A media awards proves that we had the right idea at the right time. In total we received 223 articles submitted by 115 journalists from 24 countries, published in 76 media titles”, noted Hans Bethge, Chairman of M&A International Inc., at the award ceremony in the Pavillon Gabriel in the Champs-Élysées “The M&A International Media Awards winners have provided an exciting and thorough insight into the global M&A market and helped making a complex topic accessible to a larger readership. This requires not only intellectual sharpness of the author, but also the endurance to dive deep into a complicated matter and present a precise and interesting account to the reader.” A booklet of this year’s winning articles will be available for download at www.mergers.net/award Note to the editors: Photos of the award ceremony will be available at www.mergers.net/award ENDS

For further information, please contact:

Northoff.Com PR Consultancy, Frankfurt/Germany
Volker Northoff
phone: +49 (0)69 952977-00
mobile: +49 (0)171 3462789
mai@northoff.com, mobile@northoff.com

Penrose Financial, London
Andrew Nicolls
phone: +44 (20) 7786 4881
andrewn@penrose.co.uk

Walek & Associates, New York
Daria Hall
phone: +1 212 5900529
dhall@walek.com

Comments by M&A International Inc.

KKR and Blackstone jostle for top spot

This stylish and intelligent Financial Times article by James Politi and Francesco Guerrera in New York takes first place with a long look at the competition among private equity firms. It addresses a very topical issue with clarity and depth. Well-researched and insightful, it is written with such talent that it conveys the high drama of the private equity industry and the tension among its leading players from the very first sentence. This three-part series makes good use of fact-boxes and profiles and is a pleasure to read.

Private Equity rolls up sleeves as Asia returns drop

A unique and fascinating examination of the changing role of private equity in Asian markets as the private equity firms move from offering investment to becoming more operationally involved. This analysis gets straight to the point and offers up some fresh research. Reuters’ Alison Tudor in Tokyo presents her arguments clearly, while making skilful use of strong comment.

It’s time to stop league table obsession

There have been very few reports about the multitude of bankers that advise on M&A deals, so Lina Saigol’s somewhat sarcastic take on this obsession with collecting big bank advisors is fresh and newsworthy. The piece, published in the Financial Times, is short and written with a light touch, making it a very easy read. Congratulations to Lina in London!

Exclusive interview with the world’s Mr. Private Equity

This is a brilliant interview in a leading Danish media with one of the most interesting individuals active in the M&A scene globally – Blackstone’s Stephen A. Schwarzman -- and an equally brilliant critique of the private equity industry. Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin’s author Johannes Bøggild has a rare talent in being able to deliver weighty news with the artistry of the playwright or novelist; presenting us not only with insight into Mr Schwarzman’s character but also with a critical examination of the private equity industry and the controversy surrounding it.

Wave of mergers and stock market rallye are twin sisters

This well-written and deeply researched analysis of the relationship between M&A and the wider financial markets, which was published in Switzerland’s No. 1 daily newspaper Neue Zuercher Zeitung, illustrates author Michael Ferber’s firm grasp of the triggers behind increased deal activity and his understanding of its wider implications. The article takes an intelligent historic perspective and concludes with some wise caution.

Conquering the markets

Nicola Di Molfetta, writing for the leading Italian magazine Economy, presents an entertaining and colourful look at the new “Conquerers” – the wide-range of Italian companies (both big and small) who are driving a vigorous boom in cross-border acquisitions. Using strong examples of well-known corporations but also lesser known yet equally acquisitive family groups, this piece is well-researched and strongly argued and highlights the importance of the M&A mid market.

Helmut the Stubborn

In this outstanding read, Markus Dentz presents in the German trade magazine Finance a financial story like a Greek tragedy. His dramatically written analysis of Helmut Pelzer, the oft-troubled entrepreneur and founder of the German HP Pelzer Group, is something most journalists can only dream of creating. Well-grounded in fact and detail, Dentz spins a tale of dramatic encounters with hedge funds without once losing focus. He analyses the complex business situation so easily that the reader stands in awe.

Public to Private

Writing for CFO Europe, Eila Rana in London gives us a fresh and well-thought-out article about the complexities of M&A from the perspective of human resources. It is rare that such an intelligent analysis is made of the “people” issues and problems within the M&A arena and so this smoothly written piece, with its particular look at the interesting emerging markets of eastern Europe, is very enjoyable.

Spain’s Labyrinth: The endless pursuit of Endesa

If ever a feature film ought to be made about the thrills and spills of M&A, this is the perfect subject! John Close’s exceptionally well-researched and written article about the lengthy wrangling over the purchase of Endesa, which was published in The M&A Journal in New York, is so packed with pertinent facts, so intelligently argued and so clearly explained that it could almost be submitted as a thesis to a university.

Barclays in Pounds 80bn offer to ABN Amro

Grant Ringshaw’s Sunday Times exclusive in the UK’s No. 1 Sunday newspaper is the scoop of all scoops. Rumours of a takeover bid for ABN Amro had abounded for years so to actually be the one reporter in the world to break this story is a major news achievement and the goal of almost every journalist. Packed full of detail and background, the rich context in this article explains the significance of the news throughout.

Measuring the Impact of the Credit Crunch on the M&A Market

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 19:00:00 +0100

M&A International Inc. Senior Bankers Polled again at Mid-Market Forum

Paris, 9 November 2007. – In a poll taken this morning at the M&A International Inc (MAI), Mid-Market Forum, 54% of MAI’s clients and senior bankers predict that the credit crunch will have an impact on global merger and acquisition activity in 2008. This represents a slight increase in the number of firms currently witnessing and monitoring the impact of the credit crunch in their regions of the world. While the mood of participants in the meeting was cautious, all agreed that middle market deal flow remains robust as over 1,000 meetings took place at the Mid Market Forum with companies from around the world looking for advice from the MAI firms. The poll revealed that 61% of Forum participants predicted that the technology industry will continue to be the leading sector for M&A in 2008 with both the energy and engineering/manufacturing sectors having significant deal flow as well. Earlier this week, MAI released the results of a larger survey conducted last month. The survey measured the impact of the credit crunch and whether or not it would be the same in every region and every industry around the world. The results showed that the tightening of credit is having a significant impact on transactions valued greater than $250 million, and much less impact on most mid-market transactions. “The middle-market has not yet been directly impacted by the tightening credit,” said Murray Beach, president of M&A International Inc.

“Transactions are still getting done at good prices. It is the large deals that have been thrown off their tracks. We do see that the atmosphere has become more cautious, but the outlook for market is still positive.” The survey in full is available here. About M&A International Inc. M&A International Inc. is the world’s leading alliance of mid-market merger & acquisition specialists with over 400 professionals in 42 member firms in 38 countries. In 2006, our members closed over 290 deals worth more than $17.5 billion, of which 88 were cross-border. www.mergers.net For more information about the M&A International Inc. Q3 Survey on the International Debt Market Turmoil Survey or to speak with Murray Beach, president of M&A International Inc., please contact Candace Lyons at (781) 534-4861 or Aylin Ugurlu at +49 176 238 377 95.
Contact: Candace Lyons, (781) 534-4861, clyons@boston.com

M&A International Inc. Third Quarter 2007 International Debt Market Turmoil Survey

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 21:07:00 +0100

Introduction The continuing turmoil in the debt market has disrupted the upward market trend in M&A activity. Recent earnings releases by the large investment and commercial banks have demonstrated the extent of losses, which have been incurred, and most market analysts believe that there are still more to be realized. Although the losses being reported have been blamed largely on the sub-prime mortgage market in the United States, it is apparent that other forms of financing have been compromised as well. Leveraged buyouts and large deals have been affected most directly. The holders of collateralized debt and structured debt are swimming in a pool of losses and bad news. This has had a dramatic impact on their profitability and their credibility with investors. We have collected this data in order to help our clients understand the impact of the recent market turmoil on middle-market M&A activity around the world. Given our worldwide reach and the independence of our M&A team, we do these surveys in order to provide our clients with critical information as they decide how to proceed with corporate acquisition and divestiture plans. We are pleased to bring you this information and would urge you to contact us should you have any further questions or comments. Murray Beach
President
M&A International, Inc.

M&A International Inc. Member Audon Partners and Vietnamese Partners open Office in Vietnam

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 17:48:00 +0100

M&A International Inc. member Audon Partners A/S open office in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam. With its 86 million inhabitants and being the 2nd fastest growing economy in the world, the M&A market - though still infant - is expected to grow rapidly in the future. “An increasing number of Vietnamese companies are searching for strategic partners from abroad in order to get access to the international markets for Vietnamese products and services”, says Ngo Xuan Binh, Managing Director of the new partnership, named Delta Partners. “Similarly many international companies are interested in marketing their product portfolio to Vietnamese customers and in sourcing products from Vietnam at world competitive prices”, says Henrik Audon. Audon Partners, being the Danish part of M&A International Inc. – the world’s leading mid-market M&A alliance – will serve as door openers for Vietnamese companies to the global market and visa versa and will assist with transfer of know how within technical expertise in M&A consulting. “Based on our Vietnamese partners´ experience within corporate finance and asset management in Vietnam and their network and contacts to Vietnamese companies combined with our global M&A network and M&A capabilities, we believe that we will be able to establish a strong position in the M&A market in Vietnam”, says Henrik Audon. Supported by the Embassy of Denmark, Hanoi “We support this initiative as part of Denmark’s Business to business (B2B) program, which has the purpose of developing private business in Vietnam and creating jobs and welfare through cooperation with Danish companies interested in developing business in the country”, says Peter Lysholt Hansen, Ambassador, The Embassy of Denmark, Hanoi and continues: “I’m confident that this initiative comes at the right time of Vietnams integration into the global economy”.

Global Pharmaceutical and Biotech Industry Veering from Mature to Emerging Markets

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 20:11:00 +0200

SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2007 17:30, HOTEL RITZ PARIS The Healthcare Group of M&A International Inc.(www.mergers.net), the leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisors, with a presence in 38 countries, is launching “The Emerging Markets Healthcare Partnering Round Table” at the Hotel Ritz in Paris on 8 November 2007.

The growth of the global pharmaceutical and biotech sectors is shifting from mature to emerging markets. Countries such as India, China and regions like Central/Eastern Europe have been experiencing a tremendous wave of development in the past few years. The M&A International Inc. Healthcare round table will give you the opportunity to hear hands-on experience from senior executives in leading global life sciences companies. The executives will share their experiences, best practices and success stories in cross-border transaction execution. This invitation only event will be followed by an exclusive cocktail reception that will give you the opportunity to expand your global network.

Save the date! 8 NOVEMBER 2007, 17:30

The healthcare event coincides with the M&A Mid Market Forum taking place on 9 November 2007, a meeting forum specifically designed to generate business opportunities. The M&A Mid-Market Forum allows you to meet M&A advisors from 38 countries in one-to-one meetings, all in one day. For more information, please visit www.midmarketforum.com. About M&A International
M&A INTERNATIONAL INC. is the world's leading alliance of mid-market merger & acquisition specialists with over 400 professional advisors in 42 member firms in 38 countries. In 2006, our members closed over 290 deals worth more than $17.5 billion, of which 88 were cross-border. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. announces Record Deal Flow Volume

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 20:09:00 +0200

Boston, 10 September 2007. M&A International, Inc. (MAI) announced today that its bankers closed 26 transactions in 17 countries during the month of August. To date, MAI has closed over 215 transactions, a pace that places it well above its 2006 statistics.

“While many thought that the turmoil in the debt markets and the long summer holidays would slow the pace of transactions, we are not seeing the direct impact of either in our business. We are well ahead of last year’s pace and our data shows that the deal flow continues to be very high. Currently MAI professionals are involved in 423 active deals” said Murray Beach, President of MAI.

With specialists across many industry sectors, the mix of closed MAI deals is well balanced. The technology sector has led the pack in the number of transactions for 2007, accounting for 12% of all deals closed. Retail and Business Services were two other sectors which have closed a significant amount of transactions.

“The fact that no one industry sector has an outstanding lead on any other sector is very promising,” continued Beach. “The balance in activity indicates that this is a very solid market with a broad base and therefore likely sustainable.”

Cross border transactions have become a critical part of the M&A landscape. With offices in 38 countries, MAI has been in the forefront of capitalizing on the globalization of the mergers and acquisitions market. Recent market statistics are indicating a continued rise in the number of cross border transactions.

“Most companies we represent engage our services because of our excellent track record of closing transactions and our ability to bring them opportunities from all over the world,” said Beach. “Of the 26 transactions closed in August, 8 were cross border, and almost all were exposed to foreign parties in the process of executing the marketing around the transaction.”

MAI is poised to continue to ride out this period of heightened M&A activity.

In referrence to the future of M&A activity, Murray Beach predicted:
“While the uncertainty in the debt markets will have some spill-over effect on the rate of M&A transactions, I have not seen it yet. The strategic buyers remain very active, and for most mid-sized transactions, the debt sources are not as vulnerable to market swings as the sources of debt used in jumbo sized deals.” About M&A International
M&A INTERNATIONAL INC. is the world's leading alliance of mid-market merger & acquisition specialists with over 400 professional advisors in 42 member firms in 38 countries. In 2006, our members closed over 290 deals worth more than $17.5 billion, of which 88 were cross-border. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Media Awards

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 18:47:00 +0200

The M&A International Media Awards honor individual journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the reporting and analysis of M&A activities. This annual award was established to both recognize and encourage independent journalism around the world in all languages. The Media Awards cover both international and local M&A, the big ticket deals and M&A in the rapidly growing middle market. All journalists writing for internationally distributed print media in English as well as for leading business newspapers in their home countries in English or local languages can participate. Articles published by news agencies or electronic trade media will also be accepted excluding broadcast reporting (television or radio). The articles must be published in the 12 months to 30 June in the year of the award. The number of entries is limited to three articles per journalist. 2007 M&A International Media Awards Commenting on the launch of the second year of the awards, Hans Bethge, Chairman of M&A International Inc., said: “The tremendous response last year from 90 journalists in 20 countries submitting 140 articles in 15 languages for the M&A International Media Awards in its inaugural year encouraged us to continue with this benchmark journalism prize.” Award categories. The prize, totalling US$12,000, will be awarded to three categories by an independent specialist jury under the criteria content, quality of research and style. The categories are:

General print press and news agencies – English language (1st–3rd prize)
General print press and news agencies – other languages (1st–3rd prize)
Trade print and electronic media – all languages (1st–3rd prize)

The winners of the first place for each of the three categories are invited to join the annual M&A Mid Market Forum (“MMF”), a leading global industry event attended by more than 300 M&A professionals from more than 35 countries. This year, the MMF will take place in Paris on 9 November 2007. The winners will receive their prize during the event’s gala dinner. Winners of the first place for each of the three categories will be awarded US$2,000 (plus travel expenses and accommodation). Second place awards receive US$1,000 (plus accommodation) and US$1,000 for the third place awards. The jury. The jury members are: Prof. Umberto Bocchino, Studio Bocchino (Italy); Hans Hendrik Fischer, Danfoss (Denmark); John Jay, New Star (UK); N.K. Misra, Tata Steel (India); Matthew Porzio, IntraLinks Inc. (USA); Raimon Segura de Lassaletta, Cuatrecasas (Spain); Howard E. Steinberg, McDermott Will & Emery (USA); Dr. Hong Zhang, Deutsche Bank Institute (China); Dr. Hans Bethge, M&A International Inc. (Germany). The awards ceremony. As part of the MMF's gala dinner, the winning awards will be presented at the Pavillon Gabriel in Paris on 9 November. Entries. Submissions for this year’s awards can be presented here. Read the conditions of entry. Details on last year’s winners can be found here. A booklet of the 2006 winning articles is also available for download (PDF 672KB).

M&A International Inc. Meet in China

Fri, 04 May 2007 22:14:00 +0200

Beijing, 4 May 2007. Leading professional advisors from members of M&A International Inc. met in Beijing to evaluate and consider the growing impact of China on world M&A markets. Speakers from government, the legal sector, private equity, banking and industry discussed how China has rapidly emerged in the past five years to become a genuine world player in global M&A markets. The conference concluded that market and economic conditions are perfectly set for enormous and continuous increases in both domestic and cross-border activity. This is reflected in the current levels of global M&A activity. The total value of global M&A activity in 2006 was some US$4 trillion from 31,825 closed deals. In the first quarter of 2007, global M&A activity amounted to US$1.13 trillion, 14% higher than the same period in 2006. Murray Beach, President of M&A International Inc. and conference Chairman, commented: "The principal drivers of M&A activity in China will be the impact of WTO admission, private equity funds finally securing Chinese investment opportunities after a false start, the rapid consolidation of domestic industry to compete on a global basis, clarification of securities legislation and the strengthening of Intellectual Property law. "Chinese industry will continue its expansion overseas via acquisitions across all sectors, especially traditional industries such as energy and mining, and across all continents. Domestic M&A deals will be driven by the need to consolidate, and further inward investment is certain. The Chinese M&A market is set for take-off." Dr Dana Schuppert, CEO of M&A International Inc.’s member in Beijing, Strategic European Investment Management Ltd. noted: "It is clear that 2007 will be a record year for M&A in China. The continued availability of low cost finance on a global basis, coupled with the Chinese economy growing at 11% per annum, will help drive M&A activity in China. Our presence across China will be used by our clients to take advantage of the many opportunities." About M&A International
M&A INTERNATIONAL INC. is the world's leading alliance of mid-market merger & acquisition specialists with over 400 professional advisors in 42 member firms in 38 countries. In 2006, our members closed over 290 deals worth more than $17.5 billion, of which 88 were cross-border. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Expands its Global Footprint

Fri, 04 May 2007 20:11:00 +0200

Beijing, 4 May 2007. M&A International Inc. has expanded its global footprint to 38 countries with the admission of two new members, Capital Partners of Romania and WOOD & Co of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Capital Partners of Romania has a strong focus on banking and finance, and its founders and senior executives have a long track record of expertise having closed several reference deals. By joining forces with M&A International Inc., Capital Partners is set to become the leading independent investment bank in Romania. WOOD & Co, with offices in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, has been established for over 15 years and is one of the leading investment banks in the region. It brings together international experience with strong local knowledge to provide clients with leading M&A advisory services. About M&A International
M&A INTERNATIONAL INC. is the world's leading alliance of mid-market merger & acquisition specialists with over 400 professional advisors in 42 member firms in 38 countries. In 2006, our members closed over 290 deals worth more than $17.5 billion, of which 88 were cross-border. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net