ArdorComm Media Group

Merger and Acquisition

Investmint Halts Trading Operations to Focus on Merger and Acquisition Strategy

68f4d762 ab83 46d8 a392 25973801a692 ArdorComm Media Group Investmint Halts Trading Operations to Focus on Merger and Acquisition Strategy

Investmint, a signal-based trading app, has ceased its trading services to concentrate on merger and acquisition (M&A) opportunities, as reported by Entrackr. The company is actively exploring acquisitions with wealth management firms after withdrawing Investmint as a product due to the inability to develop a reliable business model. A spokesperson for Investmint confirmed to Entrackr, “We’re in late-stage talks with a few big players for M&A.” Should these talks fail, the company may return the remaining capital to its investors. Despite achieving significant traction and retaining funds from its previous fundraising, Investmint struggled to convert these resources into revenue. In October 2022, Investmint secured $2 million in seed funding, led by Nexus Venture Partners. Founded in February 2022 by Aakash Goel and Mohit Chitlangia, Investmint aimed to simplify stock market operations for regular investors through data-driven and scientifically-backed trading and investment products. The decision to halt operations follows a pattern seen among start-ups unable to achieve a sustainable business model or product-market fit. For instance, fashion start-ups Fashinza and Virgio returned investor capital in March after altering their business models. Similarly, digital health start-up Nintee shut down in April, with founder Paras Chopra announcing the return of most raised funds to investors.

Despite Increased Transactions, M&A Activity Sees Sharp Decline in April

Image on HR ArdorComm Media Group Despite Increased Transactions, M&A Activity Sees Sharp Decline in April

According to a report by a consultancy firm, the overall merger and acquisition (M&A) activity by value witnessed a significant decline of 60% in April, totaling $5.192 billion compared to March’s $12.934 billion. Surprisingly, there was a 24% increase in the number of deals, totaling 176 transactions during the month. The decline in value was particularly notable in merger and acquisition transactions, which dropped by 75% to $2.526 billion, down from $10.212 billion in March. Private equity transactions, on the other hand, saw a marginal decrease to $2.666 billion. Within the M&A landscape, outbound deals experienced the sharpest decline, plummeting to $24 million compared to $9.072 billion in the previous month. The highest M&A activity of the month was attributed to the Adani group’s 8% stake increase in Ambuja Cement and ACC, amounting to a cumulative $1.8 billion in two transactions. Despite the dip in M&A activity, the outlook for 2024 remains positive, with India poised for growth and investment opportunities. Factors influencing the domestic markets in the near term include the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections and global and domestic trends in interest rates driven by inflation and supply chain dynamics. Overall, while the number of transactions increased, the decline in M&A activity by value underscores the complexities and challenges within the market landscape.  

US Federal Trade Commission Opposes Tapestry’s Acquisition of Capri Holdings: Here’s Why

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The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken a firm stance against Tapestry Inc.’s proposed $8.5 billion acquisition of Capri Holdings Ltd., the parent company of Michael Kors. This marks a notable move in antitrust enforcement within the fashion accessories sector, raising concerns about market competition and consumer welfare under the Biden administration. Key Points: FTC’s Concerns: The FTC’s opposition to the merger stems from concerns about its potential impact on prices within the affordable luxury segment. The agency worries that the deal could reduce competition for affordable handbags, resulting in adverse effects on consumers and workers. Additionally, the consolidation of Tapestry and Capri could lead to reduced wages and employee benefits, affecting approximately 33,000 workers worldwide. FTC’s Legal Action: The FTC filed complaints in both its in-house and federal courts after a unanimous decision to block the deal. This legal action represents the FTC’s first lawsuit in the fashion accessories sector, highlighting the significance of its intervention. Company Responses: Tapestry’s CEO, Joanne Crevoiserat, contested the FTC’s assessment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to competitive wages and benefits. Capri Holdings also disagreed with the FTC’s decision, asserting that prevailing market realities indicate minimal impact on competition. Both companies vowed to defend the case vigorously in court and reiterated their commitment to completing the acquisition. Tapestry’s Acquisition Motives: Tapestry’s pursuit of Capri Holdings aims to establish a US-based fashion conglomerate specializing in accessible luxury. The merger seeks to leverage Coach’s strengths in China and Michael Kors’ presence in Europe to enhance geographic reach and revenue growth. Despite challenges in turning around Michael Kors’ declining sales, Tapestry remains optimistic about the deal’s potential benefits. Market Implications: If the merger proceeds, the combined Tapestry and Capri entity would become the second-largest personal luxury goods company in the US, rivaling industry giants like LVMH. However, the FTC’s opposition underscores broader concerns about market consolidation and its impact on competition and consumer choice. The FTC’s legal action against Tapestry’s acquisition of Capri Holdings reflects growing scrutiny of mergers and acquisitions in the fashion industry, signaling a proactive approach to antitrust enforcement under the Biden administration.