Hargreaves Lansdown Acquisition for £5.4bn

Bristol-based investment platform Hargreaves Lansdown is poised for a takeover by a consortium comprising CVC, Nordic Capital, and Platinum Ivy, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Under the proposed terms, shareholders will receive 1,110p in cash per share, along with a 30p dividend, totaling 1,140p per share. The consortium aims to finalize the deal in the first quarter of 2025, pending shareholder approval. Negotiations between Hargreaves Lansdown and the consortium have been ongoing for several months, following the rejection of an initial offer of 985p per share. The latest bid reflects a willingness from Hargreaves' management to accept the revised offer, indicating a shift in strategy to enhance the company's technological capabilities and overall resilience. Founded in 1981, Hargreaves Lansdown is the UK's largest DIY investment platform, boasting approximately 1.9 million customers. The potential acquisition would mark a significant move away from the London Stock Exchange, joining a trend of companies opting to go private or relist on other indices, particularly in the US. The consortium's leaders emphasized their commitment to investing in Hargreaves Lansdown's transformation, citing their extensive experience in supporting businesses in regulated financial services. Analysts predict a smooth approval process for the deal, noting the board's recommendation and a lack of significant shareholder opposition to the attractive offer.