Bloomberg reports that HSG (HongShan Capital Group, formerly Sequoia Capital China) has emerged as the leading bidder in advanced discussions to acquire Blackstone’s approximately 45% stake in Leica Camera AG.
According to people familiar with the matter, HSG may also seek to purchase the remaining ~55% held by the Kaufmann family (via ACM Projektentwicklung), potentially gaining full control of the company. The discussions value Leica at around €1 billion.
Blackstone originally acquired its stake in 2011 for roughly €130 million to support Leica’s international growth. If HSG completes a full acquisition, sources indicate the firm could explore a potential public listing (IPO) of Leica.
The talks are ongoing, and there is no guarantee a deal will be reached. No official comments have been made by any of the parties involved.
Here is the recap:
- HSG has emerged as the leading bidder for a stake in Leica Camera AG, and is in talks to buy Blackstone Inc.’s 45% stake in the business.
- The firm may also purchase Austrian billionaire Andreas Kaufmann’s remaining 55% stake if he decides to sell, and may ultimately pursue an IPO listing for Leica.
- Considerations are ongoing, with any announcement potentially weeks away, and representatives for HSG and Blackstone have declined to comment.
- Leica could be valued at about €1 billion ($1.2 billion)
Rumors about Blackstone selling Leica have been floating around for a while:
Report: Blackstone could sell control of Leica Camera in €1 billion deal
Via Bloomberg
