Tag Archives: Media

Stingray Announces $15.4 Million Share Buyback

LaCaisse

Stingray Group Inc. (“Stingray” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: RAY) today announced that it has entered into a private agreement with CDP Investissements inc., a subsidiary of La Caisse for the repurchase for cancellation of 1,000,000 Subordinate Voting and Variable Subordinate Voting Shares of Stingray held by La Caisse at a price of $15.40 per share, for a total consideration of $15.4 million. The repurchase price represents a discount of 5.1% to the closing price of the shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) on June 18, 2026, and will be paid using Stingray’s cash on hand.

Concurrently with this share repurchase, La Caisse will sell 2,300,000 Subordinate Voting and Variable Subordinate Voting Shares of Stingray, representing approximately 4.2% of the company’s issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting and Variable Subordinate Voting Shares, through a block trade underwritten by National Bank Financial and Desjardins Capital Markets. Both transactions stem from La Caisse’s periodic portfolio rebalancing. La Caisse will remain a significant shareholder of Stingray, holding close to 10% of the outstanding Subordinate Voting and Variable Subordinate Voting Shares of Stingray.

“This share repurchase aligns perfectly with our ongoing commitment to active capital management and maximizing value for our shareholders,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-Founder, and CEO of Stingray. “Our healthy balance sheet and strong financial position allow us to fund this transaction from cash on hand while maintaining our debt-reduction targets, preserving the flexibility to pursue strategic acquisitions and invest in our future growth.”

“La Caisse has supported Stingray’s growth and expansion since its initial public offering more than ten years ago. This transaction lets us monetize a portion of our stake while remaining a key partner in this Montréal-based company’s success and future innovations. The capital generated may be invested in Québec companies to accelerate their growth,” said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec at La Caisse.

An order was obtained from the Autorité des marchés financiers to exempt Stingray from the issuer bid requirements under applicable securities legislation applicable to the repurchase transaction, which will be made at a discount in accordance with the exemption order.

The share repurchase will be made outside of the facilities of the TSX and will not be taken into account in the calculation of the maximum annual global limit imposed under Stingray’s current normal course issuer bid.

Information regarding the share repurchase, including the number of shares repurchased and aggregate repurchase price paid, will be available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca following the completion thereof. Stingray will not issue any additional press release announcing the completion of this share repurchase.

About Stingray

Stingray Group Inc. (TSX: RAY), the world’s leading connected streaming media company, delivers the best curated audio and video content to consumers worldwide. As a pioneer in multiplatform streaming and distribution, Stingray’s vast digital content portfolio includes thousands of live audio and radio stations, premium music channels, concerts and music documentaries, karaoke products, as well as ambience and wellness channels. Its offering is distributed via connected TVs, smart speakers, mobile, connected cars and retail. Reaching hundreds of millions of consumers every month, Stingray’s products offer an unparalleled advertising reach, enabling brands to connect with an engaged audience across the world. Home to globally renowned brands such as TuneIn, Singing Machine, Stingray Karaoke and Qello Concerts, Stingray is powered by a worldwide team of more than 1,000 employees. For more information, visit www.stingray.com.

Forward-looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities law. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the closing and the anticipated benefits of the repurchase transaction. Although the Corporation believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties and are based on information currently available to the Corporation. By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific. A variety of material factors – many of which are beyond Stingray’s control – affect the operations, performance and results of Stingray and its business, and could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in any of this forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “should”, “could”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “foresee”, “believe”, and “continue”, or the negative of these terms and similar terminology, including references to assumptions. Please note, however, that not all forward-looking information contains these terms and phrases. Additional information about the risks and uncertainties affecting Stingray’s business can be found under the heading entitled “Risk Factors” in Stingray’s Annual Information Form for the year ended March 31, 2025, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Consequently, all of the forward-looking information contained herein is qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements, and there can be no guarantee that the results or developments that Stingray anticipates will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or effects on Stingray’s business, financial condition or results of operation. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward-looking information contained herein is provided as of the date hereof, and Stingray does not undertake to update or amend such forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

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For more information

  • Mathieu Péloquin, CPA
    Senior Vice-President, Marketing and Communications
    Groupe Stingray Inc.
    514-664-1244, poste 2362
    mpeloquin@stingray.com

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Carlyle Global Credit and Content Partners Announce Single-Asset Continuation Vehicle Providing New Capital for Film and TV Growth

Carlyle

NEW YORK – June 16 – Global investment firm Carlyle’s (NASDAQ: CG) Global Credit platform and Content Partners today announced the successful closing of a single-asset continuation vehicle for Content Partners LLC (the “Company”), the leading independent owner of major studio-distributed films, television programming, and related participations.

The transaction includes the option for existing investors, including Carlyle Credit Opportunities Fund II (“CCOF II”), and new third party investors, as well as Carlyle Credit Opportunities Fund III (“CCOF III”), to participate and provides additional capital to support Content Partners’ continued growth and acquisition strategy across the film and television ecosystem. Existing investors were provided with the option to realize liquidity or continue participating in the Company’s future growth.

Founded in 2006 by Steven Blume and Steven Kram, Content Partners is an investment firm and asset manager focused on providing liquidity solutions to owners of media assets across film, television, music, and other entertainment properties. Today, the Company manages a portfolio of over 800 motion pictures and more than 3,000 hours of television content and is the largest independent owner of major studio-distributed content. Since the 2022 investment by Carlyle’s Global Credit platform, Content Partners has significantly expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions and growth across its library of film and television assets.

“We are pleased to have supported Content Partners’ success and look forward to continuing our partnership as the Company enters its next phase of growth with this new capital,” said Benjamin Fund, Partner at Carlyle. “Content Partners has built a differentiated platform focused on high-quality film and television assets. The portfolio is characterized by what we believe are long-duration, largely uncorrelated cash flows that we think are well positioned to continue benefiting from sustained demand for premium library content. We look forward to partnering with the team to build on this success in the years to come.”

“Content Partners is excited about the successful closing of this continuation vehicle, which delivers meaningful new capital to fuel our ongoing acquisition momentum while providing existing investors with attractive liquidity options,” said Steven Kram, Co-Founder and CEO; Steven Blume, Co-Founder, CFO, and COO; and John Mass, President of Content Partners. “We appreciate the strong ongoing support from Carlyle and are confident this transaction will help us further strengthen our position as the leading independent owner of premium studio film and television assets. We’re eager to build on this momentum by continuing to pursue compelling film and television opportunities that will expand our market-leading library and deliver outstanding long-term value.”

Carlyle’s Credit Opportunities strategy within the firm’s Global Credit platform seeks to provide highly structured and privately negotiated solutions across the capital structure to family, founder, and management-owned businesses, sponsor-backed companies, and special situations, with a focus on long-term value creation. Carlyle’s Global Credit platform has $209 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2026.

Moelis & Company LLC served as financial advisor to Carlyle. Debevoise & Plimpton LLP and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal counsel to Carlyle. Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal counsel to Content Partners.

About Carlyle

Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit, and Carlyle AlpInvest. With $475 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2026, Carlyle’s purpose is to connect people, ideas, and capital to fuel growth for companies and performance for investors. Carlyle employs more than 2,500 people in 28 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

About Content Partners LLC

Content Partners is a Los Angeles-based investment company founded in 2006 by Steven Blume and Steven Kram, and is the worldwide leader in acquiring films, television programming, and related royalties. The company purchases such assets from investors, producers, writers, directors, actors, and musicians. Target acquisitions include film, television, and music assets that are generating cash flow and have long-term distribution deals with major studios, networks, publishers, and other distribution channels. Since its inception, Content Partners has acquired interests in over 800 studio-release films and more than 3,000 hours of television.

Media Contacts

Prosek for Carlyle

Bhoward@prosek.com

Content Partners

Michal Mitchell

ContentPartners@relativity.ventures

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Carlyle to sell KANAMEL to Nippon Television

Carlyle

Tokyo, Japan – 19 March 2026 – Global investment firm Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) today announced that it has agreed to sell KANAMEL Inc. (“KANAMEL”), a leading Japanese creative production firm and consulting business, to Nippon Television Holdings, Inc. (“Nippon Television”), which owns one of major commercial television networks in Japan. The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close at the end of April 2026, will see Nippon Television acquire the remaining c.80% interest in the business, bringing its total ownership to 100% including the minority stake previously acquired in April 2025.

Carlyle acquired KANAMEL (then AOI TYO Holdings Inc.) in 2021 and has since worked closely with its management team to expand the business’ high-end content production capabilities and enter the customer experience (“CX”) consulting space. This includes helping companies in Japan design, build, and enhance the customer experience across digital, brand, and marketing touchpoints. Leveraging its strong content crafting capabilities, the company supports clients in redefining how they engage with customers and deliver differentiated brand experiences.

Carlyle accelerated this evolution through supporting KANAMEL’s acquisition of consulting firm FIELD MANAGEMENT STRATEGY (then Field Management), which enhanced KANAMEL’s capabilities in strategy and concept development. This broadened their solution offering, deepened client engagement and reinforced the business’ premium positioning.

Yasuhito Nakae, Representative Director and Group CEO at KANAMEL, said: “Carlyle has played a critical role in advancing our business transformation. Through this partnership, we successfully diversified our business by leveraging our long-established creative capabilities to expand into the consulting business, supporting our clients in new ways and strengthening the foundation for our long-term growth. This level of progress would have been unattainable without their global network and deep expertise. We are excited to be joining Nippon Television. By combining our creative and production capabilities with Nippon Television’s powerful media and content platform, we look forward to delivering greater value to audiences and clients not only in Japan but around the world.”

Jumpei Ogura, Co-Head in the Carlyle Japan advisory team, said: “It has been a privilege to work closely with KANAMEL’s exceptional management team through such a period of transformational growth. Together, we have repositioned the company as a diversified creative production and CX solutions platform. We are confident that Nippon Television is the right partner to continue the business’ success, and we look forward to watching KANAMEL thrive in its next phase.”

The sale of KANAMEL builds on Carlyle’s well-established track record of investing in the Consumer, Healthcare, Technology and Service sectors in Japan. Investments in this space include TRYT, kaonavi, Uzabase, and Simplex. Carlyle has invested more than 700 billion yen across over 40 Japanese companies since entering the Japanese market in 2000.

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About Carlyle
Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit, and Carlyle AlpInvest. With $477 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2025, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies, and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,500 people in 27 offices across four continents. Further information is available at carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

 

Media Contacts
Carlyle

Andrew Kenny
+44 7385 662334
andrew.kenny@carlyle.com

Kaede Haseda
+81 80 4209 1053
kaede.haseda@carlyle.com

Brunswick Group

Masato Ui
+81 80 6538 2109
carlylejp@brunswickgroup.com

 

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Avedon Capital Partners announces sale of Kinly to One Equity Partners to merge with Yorktel

Avedon

Amsterdam, 12 August 2025 – Avedon Capital Partners (“Avedon”) is
pleased to announce the successful sale of its portfolio company, Kinly, a
global provider of audio-visual integration and collaboration services, to a
holding company of York Telecom Corporation (“ Yorktel”) a portfolio
company of One Equity Partners (“OEP”). The transaction includes a
simultaneous merger with Yorktel, a long-established U.S.-based systems
integrator and managed services provider. This milestone marks a
transformative step in Kinly’s growth journey and its mission to lead the
global market in enterprise collaboration solutions.

Under Avedon’s ownership since 2017, Kinly has established itself as a
trusted global partner for enterprise AV and UCC services, expanding its
international reach and enhancing its end-to-end service delivery. Kinly has
evolved to offer a complete suite of solutions that meet the increasing
demand for scalable, integrated, and AI-driven collaboration technologies.

During this period, Kinly

– grew through various acquisitions and strong organic growth from ~300 to
1100 people;
– launched innovative products including Kinly Secure Meet, a secure video
conferencing solution built on a sovereign cloud platform, and Kinly XR
studios redefining corporate broadcasting;
– expanded internationally, opening offices in India, Germany, Switzerland
and Ireland; and
– has become a frontrunner in service quality and security, setting industry
benchmarks across multiple regions.

Emily Jeffries-Boezeman, Partner at Avedon Capital Partners, commented:
“We are incredibly proud of the journey Kinly has taken under our
ownership. Together with Tom Martin and his leadership team, we have
created a global platform that is ahead of the curve, setting the standard for
excellence in enterprise collaboration and AV integration. Over the years,
we’ve come to know the Kinly organisation as innovative, resilient, and truly
committed, and we have enjoyed building business together with this
exceptional team. We look forward to following their continued success
under OEP’s ownership.”

This strategic merger will significantly accelerate global growth and expand
next-generation systems integration capabilities with a larger talent base
and portfolio of managed services and technology offerings.
The addition of Kinly’s operations, workforce, and client base will enhance
Yorktel’s ability to meet the evolving needs of enterprise and public sector
clients and provide a world-class customer experience across the globe.
With complementary cultures and a shared commitment to service
excellence, the planned integration strengthens Yorktel’s position as a
trusted partner in digital workplace transformation while bringing additional
capabilities and capacity to Kinly customers worldwide.

Tom Martin, CEO of Kinly, said:
“Our partnership with Avedon has been instrumental to Kinly’s growth and
success, enabling us to innovate and expand our global footprint and
service capabilities. We are excited to embark on the next phase of our
journey with Yorktel and One Equity Partners — continuing to deliver
outstanding service and cutting-edge solutions to our clients worldwide”

Advisors
Avedon Capital Partners and Kinly were advised by Lincoln International
(M&A advisory), A&O Shearman (legal), KPMG (Financial Due Diligence), and
PwC (Tax Due Diligence).

About Avedon Capital Partners
Avedon Capital Partners is a leading private equity firm based in Amsterdam
and Düsseldorf. Avedon supports growth-stage businesses in the Benelux
and DACH regions, partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs and
management teams to accelerate organic growth, international expansion,
and buy-and-build strategies. Its investments are concentrated in four key
sectors: business services, software & technology, smart industries, and
consumer & health. For more information, visit https://avedoncapital.com.

About Kinly
Kinly is a leading AV and UCC systems integrator. It has over 25 years of
experience, and an international reach with 19 offices across EMEA, US and
APAC.
Kinly specializes in complex AV integration, UCC, corporate communications,
workspace management, corporate communications, events and managed
services. From small installations to global digital transformations, Kinly
collaborates with the world’s leading organizations to deliver their
workplace ambitions with a unique and unrivalled service built on core
pillars of innovation, security and quality, as well as a commitment to
responsibly designed solutions. www.kinly.com

Media Contacts
For Avedon Capital Partners:
Emily Jeffries-Boezeman, Partner
Email: emily.jeffries@avedoncapital.com

For Kinly:
Tom Martin, CEO
Email: tmartin@kinly.com

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Axel Springer Implements New Corporate Structure

KKR
  • Axel Springer becomes a family-owned transatlantic media company
  • KKR and CPP Investments become majority shareholders of the classifieds businesses
  • Julian Deutz appointed new CEO of AS Classifieds GmbH

BERLIN–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Axel Springer SE (“Axel Springer”) has implemented a new corporate structure as previously announced in September 2024. It has become effective by April, 29th 2025. The changes position all businesses for optimal future growth potential and success in their respective markets, strengthening Axel Springer as a transatlantic family-owned media company focused on digital journalism.

The portfolio of successful media brands in Europe and the US includes, amongst others, BILD, BUSINESS INSIDER, MORNING BREW, POLITICO and WELT as well as, in the context of the joint venture operated together with Ringier Axel Springer in Poland, FAKT, FORBES, NEWSWEEK and ONET. It also comprises the marketing companies Bonial and Idealo, as well as Awin, and the digital research company Emarketer.

KKR, through investment vehicles controlled by investment funds advised and managed by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. and its affiliates, and CPP Investments are divesting their shares in Axel Springer. Under the new structure, The Stepstone Group, one of the world’s leading recruiting platforms, and AVIV, a leading European real estate platform, will operate as independent joint venture companies with KKR and CPP Investments as majority owners. Axel Springer will continue to be involved as a minority shareholder holding ten percent in both classifieds companies, thus benefiting from further value appreciation.

Following the transaction, Axel Springer is now a debt-free, family-owned media company for the first time since 1985. Its primary shareholders are Friede Springer and Mathias Döpfner, who together hold 95 percent of the shares. The remaining shares are owned by Axel Sven Springer, a grandson of the company’s founder, and the Friede Springer Foundation.

Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Axel Springer, said: “The new corporate structure allows us to focus on our most important task: shaping the future of independent journalism in the free world. The company is debt-free and, for the first time since 1985, once again wholly family-owned. Thanks to the excellent cooperation with KKR in recent years, we are optimally positioned for further growth and will continue to participate in the development of the classifieds businesses through our stake.”

Philipp Freise, Partner and European Co-Head of Private Equity at KKR, said: “The close partnership between Axel Springer, KKR, and CPP Investments over the past years has been a true success story. We are especially grateful to Friede Springer and Mathias Döpfner for their trust and collaboration throughout this journey, which has enabled us to guide Axel Springer back to its roots as a strong, independent, family-owned media company while positioning it ideally for the future. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and supporting the dynamic growth of Stepstone and AVIV in the years ahead.”

Jan Bayer, Deputy CEO and President News Media USA of Axel Springer, will leave the Executive Board on July 31, 2025. From August 1, 2025, he will be a member of the Supervisory Board, whose chairmanship he is to take over. He will also join the shareholder boards of The Stepstone Group and AVIV. He will continue to strategically support Axel Springer’s US business from Washington D.C. and New York as Executive Chairman US.

Julian Deutz Appointed CEO of AS Classifieds GmbH

Julian Deutz who will step down as President Classifieds Media at Axel Springer on May, 31, 2025, will become CEO of AS Classifieds GmbH, which will support the management of The Stepstone Group and AVIV as of June 1, 2025. Under his leadership, the classifieds businesses will continue driving their growth agenda in partnership with KKR and CPP Investments.

Julian Deutz said: “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Friede Springer and Mathias Döpfner, contributing to Axel Springer’s transformation into a leading digital media company. I’m proud of the exciting journey we’ve been on together, particularly in developing our classifieds businesses into industry leaders. As I step into the role of CEO of AS Classifieds, I look forward to continuing the collaboration with KKR, CPP Investments, and Axel Springer, and to supporting the ongoing success of Stepstone and AVIV as they navigate the opportunities ahead.”

###

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About Axel Springer

Axel Springer is a transatlantic family-owned media company. By providing information across its diverse media brands (among others BILD, BUSINESS INSIDER, POLITICO, WELT) Axel Springer empowers people to make free decisions for their lives.

Media contacts
KKR
Julia Leeger
media@kkr.com

Axel Springer
Peter Huth
peter.huth@axelspringer.com

CPP Investments
Steve McCool
smccool@cppib.com

Source: KKR

 

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Rogers enters into definitive agreement for CDN$7 billion equity investment

Cdpq
  • Proceeds will be used to repay debt
  • Expects debt leverage ratio to be reduced by 0.7x following the close of the transaction
  • Rogers will maintain full operational control of its wireless network

Rogers Communications Inc. (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B; NYSE: RCI) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement with funds managed by Blackstone, backed by leading Canadian institutional investors, for a CDN$7 billion equity investment.

Under the terms of the transaction, Blackstone will acquire a non-controlling interest in a new Canadian subsidiary of Rogers that will own a minor part of Rogers’ wireless network. Rogers will maintain full operational control of its network and will include the financial results of the subsidiary in its consolidated financial statements.

“This strategic partnership demonstrates the confidence investors have in Rogers and in our world-class assets,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO. “With this significant investment, we are executing on our commitment to de-lever our balance sheet.”

The investor group led by Blackstone includes Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments), the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), the Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) and British Columbia Investment Management Corporation.

Repaying debt and strengthening balance sheet

Rogers intends to use the net proceeds from the transaction to repay debt.

“This transaction will strengthen the company’s investment grade balance sheet by reducing our borrowings and unlocking the unrecognized value of critical assets,” said Glenn Brandt, Chief Financial Officer. “With this transaction, Rogers will have issued an aggregate $9 billion of equity-valued capital since year-end, which is expected to reduce leverage by almost 1 turn.”

Subsidiary equity investment

Following the transaction, Blackstone will hold a 49.9% equity interest (with a 20% voting interest) in the subsidiary and Rogers will hold a 50.1% equity interest (with an 80% voting interest) in the subsidiary. At any time between the eighth and twelfth anniversaries of closing, Rogers will have the right to purchase Blackstone’s interest in the subsidiary.

The subsidiary is expected to distribute up to approximately CDN$0.4 billion annually to Blackstone in the first five years post-closing. Rogers’ average capital cost through to the end of the period for purchase is expected to be 7% per annum.

The investment in a portion of Rogers wireless backhaul transport infrastructure will be reported as equity in Rogers consolidated financial statements, and is expected to be considered an equity investment by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc., S&P Global Ratings, a division of S&P Global Inc., and DBRS Limited.

Subject to satisfaction or waiver of all closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025. Separately, Rogers intends to seek consent from the holders of its outstanding senior notes for certain proposed clarifying amendments to our bond indentures.
Additional information about the transaction and the terms and conditions thereof will be available in a material change report to be filed on Rogers’ profile on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to, among other things, the anticipated effect of the transaction on our debt leverage ratio, our intended use of proceeds from the transaction, our relationship with and control over the Backhaul subsidiary, the expected equity treatment for the transaction from our credit rating agencies, the closing of the transaction on the terms described in this news release and the expected timing of the closing of the transaction. Forward-looking information may in some cases be identified by words such as “will”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends” and similar expressions suggesting future events or future performance.

We caution that all forward-looking information is inherently subject to change and uncertainty and that actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. A number of risks, uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information or could cause our current objectives, strategies and intentions to change, including, but not limited to, new interpretations or accounting standards, or changes to existing interpretations and accounting standards, from accounting standards bodies, changes to the methodology, criteria or conclusions used by rating agencies in assessing or assigning equity treatment or equity credit to the transaction and the other risks described under the headings “About Forward Looking Information” and “Risks and Uncertainties Affecting our Business” in our management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024. Accordingly, we warn investors to exercise caution when considering statements containing forward-looking information and that it would be unreasonable to rely on such statements as creating legal rights regarding our future results or plans. We cannot guarantee that any forward-looking information will materialize and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this forward-looking information. Any forward-looking information contained in this news release represent expectations as of the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. However, we are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter any statements containing forward-looking information, the factors or assumptions underlying them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. All of the forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements herein.

Forward-looking information is provided herein for the purpose of giving information about the transaction and its expected impact. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The completion of the transaction is subject to closing conditions, termination rights and other risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the transaction will occur, or that it will occur on the terms and conditions contemplated in this news release. The transaction could be modified, restructured or terminated. There can also be no assurance that the benefits expected to result from the transaction will be fully realized.

Other Information

Debt leverage ratio is a capital management measure. The debt leverage ratio has been adjusted in this press release to give effect to the transaction by further reducing adjusted net debt by an amount equal to the expected net proceeds of the transaction. This adjusted debt leverage ratio is a non-GAAP ratio and the further adjusted net debt, used as a component of this adjusted debt leverage ratio, is a non-GAAP financial measure. These are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other companies. For more information about these measures, see “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” and “Financial Condition – Adjusted Net Debt and Debt Leverage Ratios” in our management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, which is available at sedarplus.ca and sec.gov.

About Rogers Communications Inc.

Rogers is Canada’s leading communications and entertainment company and its shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit rogers.com or investors.rogers.com.

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GoGift gears up international ambitions: Announces strategic partnership with Waterland Private Equity

Waterland

Copenhagen, 11 February 2025 – After 10 years as part of Nordisk Film, GoGift will engage in a strategic partnership with Waterland Private Equity. The Danish company, present in more than 70 countries, is ready to gear up its international ambition to become a global market leader.

Copenhagen based GoGift is ready to gear up its ambitions. While GoGift today is the Nordic market leader in innovative gifting and corporate incentive solutions, the company is aiming at becoming an established market leader across the globe. GoGift will engage in a new strategic partnership with Waterland Private Equity, meaning the company will change hands from Nordisk Film under Egmont, one of Scandinavia’s leading media groups.

“We look back with pride and joy at the past decade, during which we have undergone incredible development to become the company we are today. We have managed to develop a unique tech platform, and with The Global Gift Card, we now have customers in 70 countries around the world. Therefore, it is with great gratitude that we say farewell to Nordisk Film and Egmont. Now, we are looking forward to an exciting new chapter for our company. Waterland is an ideal partner for GoGift, as they have appreciation for our DNA and vision, and have a deep professional understanding of our strategy and ambitions. They will be an important strategic support for us in our continued journey to realize our full potential and become a global market leader,” says Henrik Ravn, founder and CEO of GoGift.

As part of Nordisk Film since 2014, GoGift has grown into a company of 120 full time employees servicing more than 15,000 B2B clients. The media group is looking forward to following the company’s further development in the future.

“We have been very satisfied with our ownership of GoGift, which over the past ten years has developed into a Nordic market leader with a scalable technology platform and products that can compete globally. We are confident that Waterland will be a great partner for GoGift moving forward, with the resources and ambitions to support GoGift in its global journey. In addition, this gives us the opportunity to focus even more on Nordisk Film’s core strategy and further growth opportunities within computer games, films and series, as well as our cinemas,” says Allan Mathson Hansen, CEO of Nordisk Film.

With the partnership, Waterland will support GoGift with international acquisitive growth and continued organic rollout of The Global Gift Card and The GoGift Engine to strengthen its current presence in the global markets. The agreement marks Waterland’s fourth investment in the corporate incentives industry, previously having partnered with Didix/Tastecard, Exercite and FiscFree.

“We are thrilled to welcome GoGift to the Waterland portfolio. A founder-led company with a strong brand and a proven track record of innovative and high-quality solutions for its clients. At Waterland, we partner with strong value-focused companies, and GoGift is a great fit for us. While GoGift already has a solid international presence, we are confident that there is further potential for GoGift to be established as an international market leader. We are excited to support the management in reaching its goal,” says Nicklas Guldberg, Principal at Waterland Private Equity, Denmark.

The management will remain under founder Henrik Ravn in Copenhagen, Denmark.

About GoGift
Founded in 2003, GoGift is a global corporate gifting company, specialising in innovative and customisable global gifting, reward and incentive solutions. Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, GoGift has more than 15,000 clients worldwide, being present in 70 countries.
For more information: https://www.global.gogift.com/about-gogift

About Nordisk Film
Nordisk Film is the leading entertainment company in the Nordics and one of the oldest film companies in the world. Founded in 1906, Nordisk Film today engages in entertainment and experiences across platforms; from award-winning films and series to operating the Nordisk Film cinemas and is behind global computer games companies and PlayStation in the Nordic region and Baltics. Nordisk Film has been part of the leading Nordic media group Egmont since 1992.
For more information: https://nordiskfilm.com/who-we-are

Press Contacts:
Andrea Philipsen – ap@ulvemanborsting.com | +45 42 75 88 66
Laurence Van Doosselaere – vandoosselaere@waterland.be | +32 473 88 05 21

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Equistone-backed Talon acquires Out of Home Masters

Equistone Partners Europe (“Equistone”), today announces that it has supported its portfolio company, Talon, the global independent Out-of-Home (OOH) media agency, with the acquisition of Out of Home Masters, the largest independent OOH specialist in the Netherlands. The transaction is the third announced by Talon since Equistone invested in the business in 2022. The financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed.

Founded in 2015 by Frank Hardenberg – former Managing Director of Wall Netherlands, CBS Outdoor and Exterion Media – Amsterdam-based OOH Masters has grown to become a major player in the Dutch OOH market. With an established presence across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, the agency delivers innovative, data-driven campaigns for renowned brands and agencies such as Havas Media, Talpa Radio & TV, Hunkemöller, Coolblue, Enterprise, and Tony Chocolonely.

Headquartered in London with offices in Dubai, Dublin, Frankfurt, Manchester, New York, San Diego, Nashville and Singapore, Talon works with global brands to deliver innovative media solutions for OOH at global, national and regional levels. Since investing in the business in 2022, Equistone has worked closely with the Talon management team on executing an ambitious growth plan, which has focused on consolidating its leading position in the UK, growing its share in the US market and investing heavily in technology to capitalise on the rapidly growing programmatic OOH market. The acquisition of Out of Home Masters follows the acquisitions of Novus Canada and Evolve in 2023 and provides Talon with an important foothold in the attractive Benelux market.

Paul Harper at Equistone said: “Since 2022, we have worked closely with the Talon management team on implementing and pursuing an ambitious buy-and-build strategy. This latest acquisition represents another important milestone for this strategy, which, in combination with accelerated investment into technology and talent, is focused on cementing Talon as the global leader in Out-of-Home advertising.”

Tristan Manuel at Equistone added “OOH Masters provides access to the highly attractive Dutch OOH market which benefits from high programmatic adoption and provides a bridgehead for Talon to expand into the broader Benelux region.”

Sue Frogley, Global CEO of Talon, said: “OOH Masters has been a valued partner in our international network for several years, so this acquisition is a natural next step. Frank and his team have built an exceptional business with a strong reputation for delivering innovative, data-driven solutions in one of Europe’s most dynamic OOH markets. Their expertise and vision align perfectly with our strategy, and together, we’re well-positioned to drive even greater value for our clients and growth across the region.”

PR Contacts

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Vitu Completes Acquisition of Dealertrack Registration & Titling Businesses from Cox Automotive

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Vitu, a leading innovator in Vehicle-to-Government (V2Gov) technology, today announced that it has successfully closed on its acquisition of the Dealertrack registration and titling businesses from Cox Automotive. The acquired businesses include RTS (Registration and Titling Solutions), RegUSA (Nationwide Title and Registration), Accelerated Title, and CMS (Collateral Management Services). This acquisition does not impact any other Cox Automotive Dealertrack solutions or services.

Don Armstrong, co-founder and CEO of Vitu says, “The combined expertise, experience, and strengths of our now one Vitu team enhances our ability to better serve partners and governments today, and pave the way for the digital titling and registration ecosystem of tomorrow.”

About Vitu

Providing cutting-edge services to the motor vehicle industry, the Vitu Platform manages in-state EVR (Electronic Vehicle Registration), out-of-state title and reg across all 50 states with Vitu Interstate and digitally processed E-Titling with NTX, making it easier than ever to secure vehicle titles from anywhere in the nation. Vitu redefines the standard for digital vehicle transactions with one single platform and unmatched support. Vitu operates throughout the United States.

 

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Axel Springer Announces Signing of Definitive Agreement on New Corporate Structure to Unlock Future Growth Potential

KKR

Berlin, 19 December, 2024 – Axel Springer SE (“Axel Springer”) today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to create a new corporate structure with a focused media company and separately held classifieds businesses. Following the initial announcement on 19 September, this marks the next milestone in the transition, positioning all businesses for optimal future growth potential and success in their respective markets.

As previously announced, all of Axel Springer’s news businesses – BILD, BUSINESS INSIDER, POLITICO, WELT, Morning Brew, Dyn Media, EMARKETER, and the joint venture Ringier Axel Springer Poland – will remain within Axel Springer. In addition to idealo and Bonial, Awin will also remain within Axel Springer’s digital marketing media portfolio to continue its ongoing and successful transformation to a MarTech company.

Friede Springer and Mathias Döpfner will together hold close to 98 percent of the company. Axel Sven Springer, one of the grandchildren of the company founder, will retain the remaining shares – a portion of his previous minority shareholding. This makes Axel Springer a fully family owned and operated media company for the first time since the company’s IPO back in 1985.

The classifieds businesses – the Stepstone Group and AVIV Group – will be held as separate joint venture companies with KKR and CPP Investments as majority shareholders, Axel Springer as minority co-shareholder (approximately 10 percent), and with an economic participation by the grandchildren of Axel Springer.

The classifieds businesses will continue to independently pursue their respective growth strategies, with strong strategic support from KKR and CPP Investments. Following significant platform and technology investments over the past five years, the businesses are expected to drive increased product innovation to continue providing market leading services for customers.

The new corporate structure will allow Axel Springer to continue focusing on its mission: shaping the future of independent journalism supported by Artificial Intelligence. As a privately owned and operated media company, Axel Springer will be debt-free, making it well-positioned to further strengthen its market position and pursue long-term growth opportunities and investments in alignment with its entrepreneurial vision.

The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.

— Ends —

For further information, please contact:

 

Axel Springer

Peter Huth

peter.huth@axelspringer.com

KKR

Annabel Arthur

media@kkr.com

CPP Investments

Steve McCool

smccool@cppib.com

About Axel Springer

Axel Springer is an international media and technology company. By providing information across its diverse media brands (among others BILD, WELT, Business Insider, POLITICO) and classifieds (The Stepstone Group and AVIV Group) Axel Springer empowers people to make free decisions for their lives.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About CPP Investments

Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments™) is a professional investment management organization that manages the Fund in the best interest of the more than 22 million contributors and beneficiaries of the Canada Pension Plan. In order to build diversified portfolios of assets, investments are made around the world in public equities, private equities, real estate, infrastructure and fixed income. Headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Hong Kong, London, Mumbai, New York City, San Francisco, São Paulo and Sydney, CPP Investments is governed and managed independently of the Canada Pension Plan and at arm’s length from governments. At September 30, 2024, the Fund totalled C$675.1 billion. For more information, please visit  www.cppinvestments.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or on X @CPPInvestments.

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