Microsoft, Defying Gravity: Stocks Soar 7.24% While Market Sinks & Losers Streak Hits the Brakes

Stem Cell Slytherins Unite: Calidi’s Trojans Merge with FLAG for a Cancer-Kicking Bonanza

TLDR:
Calidi Biotherapeutics plans to merge with First Light Acquisition Group (FLAG) and trade on NYSE American starting in July, with an expected valuation of $335 million and total proceeds of up to $82 million, aiming to revolutionize cancer treatment with its allogeneic stem cell-based technology. Calidi’s universal delivery system brings the price down from $500,000 to under $10,000, offering a revolutionary and inexpensive solution for treating cancer.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather around, for I have some thrilling news. If you’ve been waiting for stem cell-based oncolytic virus delivery platform companies to merge with special purpose entities, then today is your day! Calidi Biotherapeutics plans to join forces with First Light Acquisition Group (FLAG) and trade on the NYSE American under the ticker symbol “CLDI” starting in July. With an expected valuation of a cool $335 million, total proceeds from the transaction could reach up to $82 million. You know what they say, nothing says cutting-edge medical technology like a few extra million dollars.

The merger with FLAG will give Calidi the opportunity to tap into an extensive network and operational experience, addressing missions of national and global importance in the United States. This comes after Calidi’s previous merger attempt with Edoc Acquisition Corp, which ended prematurely due to Edoc’s inability to meet all the conditions in time. Well, you know what they say, if at first you don’t succeed, try merging with another company.

Calidi’s CEO, Allan Camaisa, is understandably excited about the partnership with FLAG. Their allogeneic stem cell-based technology could revolutionize cancer treatment, and they’re working with the federal government to fund these therapies. General James Cartwright, who served as Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under two presidential administrations, is part of FLAG’s team. That’s right, folks – the military might help us fight cancer!

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) has awarded Calidi a $3.1 million grant, while City of Hope received a $12 million grant for a clinical trial to evaluate Calidi’s licensed NeuroNova platform in patients with advanced brain cancer. Now, if that’s not progress, I don’t know what is.

Calidi has two therapies in clinical development – NeuroNova and SuperNova – which use stem cell-protected oncolytic viruses to target cancerous tumors. CEO Camaisa describes stem cells as a “Trojan horse” that hides viruses from the body’s immune system. Now, who wouldn’t want a sly little Trojan horse to help them fight cancer?

Unlike personalized delivery systems that cost up to $500,000 per patient, Calidi’s therapeutic approach is a universal delivery system. They aim to bring the price down from $500,000 to under $10,000 and even hundreds of dollars in the future. It’s a revolutionary and inexpensive solution for treating cancer, giving everyone a chance to access cutting-edge clinical trials and approved drugs, not just the wealthy with exceptional insurance programs.

Calidi’s master stem cell bank was derived from liposuction of mesenchymal stem cells from healthy adult adipose tissue (waist fat). So, the next time you’re feeling guilty about that extra piece of cake, remember that your love handles are just a stem cell goldmine waiting for their chance to shine.

In conclusion, the merger of Calidi Biotherapeutics and First Light Acquisition Group is a beacon of hope for cancer patients and investors alike. With their innovative stem cell-based technology and strategic partnerships, Calidi is on the cutting edge of revolutionizing cancer treatment. And with a goal of making these treatments affordable and accessible for everyone, they’re truly committed to changing lives. So, here’s to Calidi Biotherapeutics and their tireless efforts to bring life-changing treatments to patients around the world.

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ThinkMarkets’ Public Debut: A Forex Love Story with a Canadian Twist

TLDR:
ThinkMarkets is set to merge with FG Acquisition Corporation for $160m, becoming ThinkMarkets Group Holdings Ltd and listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, with existing management in their respective roles. The company aims to raise up to $20m through a private placement of convertible bonds to support their growth strategy, working capital, and general business needs.

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats and glasses, because it appears as though ThinkMarkets, the Melbourne-based multi-licensed online foreign exchange brokerage, is about to grace the world stage through a merger with Canadian blank check firm FG Acquisition Corporation. And to think, it will only cost them a cool $160 million (USD) for this delightful union.

The merger, set to close in the second half of 2023, will give birth to ThinkMarkets Group Holdings Limited, a company that will be listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Larry G. Swets Jr., FGAC CEO, is positively giddy about the acquisition, stating that it offers a “compelling investment opportunity” for those looking to dabble in multi-asset online brokerages with a global footprint. Well, who wouldn’t be thrilled at the prospect of such lucrative opportunities?

Fear not, loyal investors, for the existing management team of ThinkMarkets will continue in their respective roles within the new company. Naumann Anes, one of the co-founders, can add Chief Executive Officer to his resume, while fellow co-founder Faizan Anes will step into the role of President. The combined company’s board of directors will include a veritable who’s who of financial gurus, including Nauman Anees, Faizan Anees, and Larry G. Switz Jr., Julian Babartzi, Andrew B. McIntyre, Peter Hoitzing, Simon Brewys Weston.

But wait, there’s more! ThinkMarket aims to raise up to $20 million (USD) through a private placement of convertible bonds. You may be wondering, “What’s the purpose of this private placement?” Fear not, dear reader, for these funds are designed to support the new company’s growth strategy, working capital, and general business needs. After all, one cannot expect to dominate the financial world without a generous infusion of capital.

The company, which generated a respectable $62 million (USD) in revenue last year, is licensed and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Furthermore, they’ve expanded their global reach through licensed operations in South Africa and the acquisition of Japanese FX firm, Japan Affiliate. With these strategic moves, ThinkMarkets is ready to claim its share of the global financial pie.

In 2022, ThinkMarkets made headlines by raising $30 million (USD) in new capital, courtesy of Mars Growth, a joint venture between Liquidity Group and MUFG. The UK branch of the business also launched a new prime brokerage unit under the brand Liquidity.net. It seems as though they are well-equipped to tackle the next chapter of their journey as a publicly traded company.

With the guidance of FGAC, the support of its shareholders, and a fresh influx of capital, ThinkMarkets appears ready to embark on a new chapter of growth. Naumann-Anes, Co-Founder and CEO, is understandably excited about the company’s public debut, stating, “We are pleased to begin our journey as a publicly traded company with the support of FGAC and look forward to a new chapter in the company’s growth.” Indeed, we’re all excited to see what ThinkMarkets has in store for the future.

So, buckle up, investors, as it appears ThinkMarkets is poised to take the financial world by storm. With a global footprint, a strong management team, and a clear path for growth, there’s no doubt that this multi-licensed online forex brokerage is ready to make some serious waves. Just remember to keep your hats and glasses securely fastened – it’s sure to be a wild ride.

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VinFast and the Furious: Vietnamese EV Maker Revs Up for $27B SPAC-tacular US Debut

TLDR:
VinFast plans to go public in the US through a SPAC merger, valuing the company at $27 billion, with expectations to tap into the resources and expertise of experienced investors to ride the wave of the booming global electric vehicle market. However, VinFast will face the same regulatory requirements and controls as any other public company, and competition from established EV makers.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round for a riveting tale of electric vehicles, international intrigue, and the audacity of a Vietnamese car maker looking to take on the likes of Tesla in the United States. VinFast, known for its innovative and affordable electric cars, has announced its plan to go public in the US through a merger with a yet-to-be-named special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). This cunning maneuver bypasses the traditional IPO process and aims to quickly raise capital, while also valuing VinFast at a whopping $27 billion (pause for dramatic effect).

Now, you might be thinking, “Why would VinFast want to dive into the shark-infested waters of the US electric vehicle market?”, especially with the notable presence of Tesla. Fear not, for VinFast has a plan. By merging with an already listed SPAC, the company expects to tap into the resources and expertise of experienced investors, allowing them to potentially ride the wave of the booming global electric vehicle market, which is expected to reach $803.81 billion by 2027.

Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. VinFast will be subject to the same regulatory requirements and controls as any other public company, which might be a touch inconvenient for a newcomer to the American market. Additionally, there’s the small matter of competition from established electric car makers who might not be too thrilled about a new kid on the block trying to steal their thunder.

However, VinFast isn’t cowering in fear or trembling at the prospect of competition. No, they have a talented team of engineers and designers determined to create innovative, sustainable electric vehicles that could give Tesla a run for its money. And with the backing of some of the world’s leading investors, VinFast seems to be in it for the long haul.

In conclusion, VinFast’s decision to go public in the US through a merger and acquisition sets the stage for a fascinating chapter in the electric vehicle market. As the saying goes, “fortune favors the bold,” and VinFast’s bold move to tap into the US market could potentially pay off in a big way. Though the electric vehicle market is already quite crowded, it looks like there’s always room for one more party crasher.

Now, as we wait with bated breath to see how VinFast fares in this thrilling saga, we can’t help but wonder if their electric scooters and cars will be embraced by American consumers. After all, with the ever-increasing demand for sustainable transportation and governments pushing for reduced carbon emissions, VinFast could be just what the doctor ordered. So, stay tuned, dear readers, and enjoy the ride as the electric vehicle market gets a little more… electrifying.

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Debt-Ceiling Drama: Season Finale or Just Another Cliffhanger?

TLDR:
Investors have confidence that a timely resolution will be reached regarding the debt ceiling, preventing the US from defaulting. The market remains balanced on the tightrope of stability, with cautious optimism being advised.

Ladies and gentlemen, step right up to the greatest show on Earth: the debt ceiling drama. The stock market, that roller coaster of emotions and wallets, is once again teetering on the edge of uncertainty. But fear not, for our fearless investors are, like experienced circus-goers, unfazed by this high-wire act.

The calm engulfing the financial realm is all thanks to our protagonist, David Lefkowitz, Head of Americas Equities at UBS Global Wealth Management. He reassures us that the market’s tranquility reflects a high conviction that a timely resolution will be reached, preventing the United States from defaulting. Oh, how we long for the comforting words of experts in such turbulent times.

Now, if you’re new to this grand spectacle, allow me to shine a spotlight on the concept of the debt ceiling drama. The debt ceiling is the grand sum the U.S. government can borrow to fulfill its obligations. Failure to raise it could leave Uncle Sam unable to pay his bills, plunging the economy into chaos. It’s a problem bigger than the tent that houses this circus.

Our current act features the Treasury, which has exhausted its special measures to tiptoe around the debt ceiling. This puts our lawmakers in the center ring, juggling the pressure to find a solution before the curtain falls. Fortunately, they seem to have learned some new tricks, with Democrats and Republicans expressing their desire to work together in harmony. How heartwarming.

So, what can our dear investors expect from the market in the upcoming encore performances? Truth be told, even the most skilled fortune tellers can’t predict that. For now, the market maintains its balance on the tightrope of stability, but should a solution remain elusive, it may plummet into the safety net of negative reactions. Yet, we must not dwell on such doom and gloom.

Allow me to remind you that the market, like any good circus performer, is resilient. It has faced countless storms and emerged from the wreckage, dazzling us with its comeback acts. Cautious optimism would serve you well in this circus, but remember: investing is the marathon of trapeze artists. Don’t let short-lived dips and dives discourage you from hanging on for the long haul.

In summary, the current performance is one of calm and confidence, as investors trust that the debt ceiling debacle will be resolved without a disastrous encore. While the ending remains uncertain, our lawmakers appear to have set aside their differences to put forth a grand finale. Of course, any whiff of an impending default could send the market spiraling, so keep your wits about you.

And there you have it, folks – the show must go on. The debt ceiling drama continues its perpetual run, but we, the resilient audience, will stand by and weather any storm. After all, what’s a circus without a little tension and suspense? Just remember to keep your eyes on the prize and don’t lose sight of the long-term game. So sit back, relax, and enjoy your investments as the spectacle unfolds before your very eyes.

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SPACtacularly Sinking: Celeb-Backed Blank Checks and Insider Sales Bringing Down the SPAC House Party

TLDR:
SPAC sector faces challenges including oversupply, insider sales and celebrity-related failures, with $30bn already returned to investors in 2021 and many companies posting negative returns. Insider selling raises a red flag, but entrepreneurs can minimize risk and maximize success with careful consideration.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round and take a seat, for today we’ll be discussing the ever-so-popular SPAC sector, where blank check companies raise money and everyone becomes a millionaire. Well, just kidding, because lately, things haven’t been looking too rosy for our dear SPAC friends, with nearly $30 billion already returned to investors in 2023. That’s right, folks, it’s time to grab your popcorn and watch as the SPAC circus takes a wild turn.

As Wall Street firms like KKR and TPG liquidate their SPACs and return money to investors, the available companies to buy are dropping faster than a lead balloon. But what’s driving this SPAC implosion, you ask? It’s simple: there are just too many blank check companies vying for attention. Like a group of toddlers at a birthday party, the hunger for funding has become so ravenous that the returns have plummeted, with 67% down and another 22% hovering just below the 2% mark. That’s a whopping $100 billion in market value lost, folks.

Now, let’s talk about the celebrities, athletes, and entertainers who decided to jump on the SPAC bandwagon because, well, why not? Out of the 33 SPACs tied to these famous faces, 21 of them posted negative returns in 2021. It seems that as soon as these public figures start doing things perceived as negative, the stock market, being the irrational beast that it is, punishes their SPACs like a strict parent. Tiger Woods, for instance, saw his SPAC fall short of IPO goals, while Jay-Z’s cannabis-focused SPAC, The Parent Company, lost a staggering 84% in value.

But wait, there’s more! Early investors in these companies managed to sell shares worth a cool $22 billion through well-timed trades – all before the share prices hit rock bottom. I guess even a sinking ship has its silver lining, right? But this insider selling raises a red flag for the SPAC sector as a whole, especially since The Wall Street Journal identified 232 companies with insider sales out of the 460 that did SPAC deals. It’s like a game of musical chairs, and everyone’s scrambling to find a seat.

So, where does this leave the SPAC sector? Well, the future seems uncertain, my friends. Although these blank check companies won’t be disappearing anytime soon, clearly there’s a storm coming. With an oversupply of SPACs, insider sales running rampant, and celebrity-backed debacles keeping the stock market on its toes, entrepreneurs need to tread carefully in order to minimize risk and maximize their chances of success. But hey, who doesn’t love a good challenge, right?

In conclusion, the SPAC sector finds itself in a precarious position, teetering on the edge of a cliff with challenges such as oversupply, insider sales, and celebrity-related failures pushing it closer to the edge. But fear not, dear entrepreneurs! Keep your wits about you, stay vigilant, and remember, the stock market isn’t the only place to find irrationality – just look at the world around you.

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VinFast Ditches IPO, Chooses SPAC-tacular Merger for a Zippier Ride to the Public Market

TLDR:
VinFast withdraws IPO filing and merges with BSAQ, valuing the company at $27 billion. The merger allows VinFast to continue research and development of affordable electric vehicles, and to showcase their commitment to sustainability on a global stage.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round for a tale of electric vehicles, Vietnamese innovation, and a merger that’s hotter than a jalapeño in a sauna. That’s right, VinFast, Vietnam’s pride and joy in the automotive industry, has decided that going public through an IPO is so 2022 and has withdrawn its filing. Instead, they’re jumping on the SPAC bandwagon and merging with Black Spade Acquisition Group (BSAQ).

Now, you might be asking, “Why the sudden change of heart?” Well, it’s simple, really. VinFast was originally seeking a measly $1 billion through their IPO, but the SPAC merger values the company at an enterprise value of $27 billion – talk about a glow-up. The deal is expected to close in the second half of this year, and we can only imagine the fireworks display they’ll put on to celebrate.

So, what does this mean for the world of electric vehicles? For one, VinFast is already making waves with its sleek designs and innovative technology. With this merger, they’ll have the opportunity to show off their commitment to sustainability and make a name for themselves on the global stage. And let’s face it, the world could use a few more shining examples of eco-friendly innovation.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. VinFast is on a mission to make electric vehicles affordable for everyone, not just the well-heeled elite who can afford luxury electric cars. This merger gives them the financial boost they need to continue their research and development, bringing us one step closer to the electric car utopia we’ve all been dreaming of.

And what about the folks at Black Spade Acquisition Group? They must be pretty stoked to partner with a company that’s so committed to making the world a cleaner, greener place. Together, these two powerhouses can work toward a future where electric cars are the norm, and gasoline-powered vehicles are relics of a bygone era.

So, what’s the moral of this story? Never underestimate the power of a good merger, especially one involving innovative electric vehicles and a boatload of cash. VinFast’s decision to ditch the IPO route and join forces with BSAQ is a bold move, but one that’s likely to pay off in the long run. The electric vehicle market is a competitive one, and this merger gives VinFast the edge it needs to stay ahead of the game.

In conclusion, VinFast has demonstrated that sometimes, the road less traveled is the one paved with gold – or, in this case, billions of dollars and a promising future in the electric vehicle industry. With their innovative technology, commitment to sustainability, and partnership with BSAQ, we can expect great things from this Vietnamese powerhouse. So, buckle up, folks. The future of electric vehicles is about to shift into high gear, and VinFast is leading the charge.

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Beard Energy’s Solar-Powered Glow-Up: Merging with Suntuity Renewables for a Brighter, Greener Future

TLDR:
Beard Energy Transition Acquisition Corp will merge with Suntuity Renewables in a $249 million deal, with plans to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol STY. The deal will result in a more diversified company with significant growth potential in the renewable energy industry.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the latest tale of corporate matrimony: Beard Energy Transition Acquisition Corp. (NYSE: BRD) has agreed to merge with Suntuity Renewables, a residential solar energy provider, in a deal that sets the post-merger enterprise value at a cool $249 million. One could say it’s a match made under the sun, a romance that’s bound to light up the renewable energy industry.

Now, if you’re not familiar with Beard Energy, it’s a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that’s playing the field in the energy sector, looking for opportunities to invest in and expand its renewable energy portfolio. In this case, Beard Energy has set its sights on Suntuity Renewables, a solar energy provider with a presence in 25 states, specializing in the installation and support of residential solar power systems and energy storage solutions.

The terms of this match made in heaven? Beard Energy will acquire Suntuity at a pre-money equity value of $190 million. They’re planning to tie the knot in the fourth quarter of this year, and the newlywed company will trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol STY. They say love is blind, but the stock market is keeping a watchful eye on this union.

The residential solar market is a hot commodity, and Beard Energy is hoping to make a statement with its new partner. In the grand scheme of things, they believe this marriage will make for a more diversified company with significant growth potential. They’re on a mission to make renewable energy more accessible to people around the world, and what better way than to join forces with a company that’s already shining bright?

But let’s not forget: Beard Energy isn’t the only SPAC trying to make moves in the renewable energy market. SunCar’s stock price has risen by as much as 102% after its rather dramatic 33% drop on debut, showing that there are plenty of suitors vying for attention. Meanwhile, SPAC Nabors Energy has extended the deadline to complete its merger with Vast Solar, proving that even the best-laid plans can hit a few snags.

However, Beard Energy seems to have a newfound confidence in its partnership with Suntuity. They’re vowing to set themselves apart from their competitors, and they’re excited about the potential of their combined forces. Will they be the renewable energy power couple we’ve been waiting for? Only time will tell.

In this age of sustainability, mergers like this are a testament to our commitment to a greener future. Beard Energy and Suntuity Renewables are just one of the many players in the game, but their union has the potential to advance the world of sustainable energy. We’ll be watching closely as they embark on this journey together, and we can only hope for a fruitful partnership that yields innovative and sustainable solutions for our energy needs.

So, let’s raise a glass to the happy couple, Beard Energy and Suntuity Renewables, as they set off on their mission to make renewable energy more accessible to the masses. May their marriage be filled with sunshine and success, as they work towards creating a sustainable future for us all.

And to all the other SPACs out there trying to make their mark: stay hungry, stay foolish, and maybe someday you too can find the perfect partner to light up your life.

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De-SPAC-tacular Showdown: Insurer Forced to Cover Drama With Share-Selling CEO

TLDR:
A company persevered through a high-stakes legal battle against an insurance giant to secure insurance coverage for a dispute with its former CEO, emerging victorious. The company’s unwavering dedication to justice serves as an inspiration for all those who find themselves locked in battle against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather around for a classic tale of perseverance and determination, starring an insurance company, an anonymous business, and a stubborn CEO. This gripping narrative showcases the extraordinary lengths to which a company went to claim its just desserts after its former CEO refused to sell his shares for 180 days following a SPAC transition. A true testament to the power of tenacity, this company emerged victorious, proving that even the little guy can stand up to the big guns and win.

In a world where insurance companies are notorious for avoiding payouts, this company’s gritty determination to fight for its rights is a breath of fresh air. After engaging in a high-stakes legal battle, they managed to secure insurance coverage for the dispute with their former CEO. Now, this may sound like a run-of-the-mill corporate scuffle, but let’s take a moment to appreciate the gravity of the situation. This company stared down an insurance behemoth, armed with nothing but a belief in their cause, and came out on top. This win is not only for them but serves as an inspiration to businesses worldwide.

The victory of our underdog protagonist, however, is not the only remarkable aspect of this story. The company’s former CEO, a character who could give Ebenezer Scrooge a run for his money, refused to sell his shares for 180 days despite the company’s pressing need to move forward with its plans. This stubborn act of defiance brought about a legal showdown that would make even the most hardened of lawyers quiver in their boots. Yet, the company remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice, eventually claiming the insurance payout they so rightfully deserved.

The moral of this epic saga is clear: hard work, dedication, and an unwavering belief in one’s cause can lead to unimaginable success. This company’s triumph serves as an inspiration for all those who find themselves locked in battle against seemingly insurmountable odds. With persistence and courage, justice has a funny way of prevailing in the end.

Our story concludes with a victory celebration, a toast to the power of patience, and the sweet taste of justice. The company’s win against the insurance giant is a shining example of the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even when the road ahead is fraught with challenges. This tale is a reminder that in the face of adversity, it is possible to emerge victorious, as long as one remains resolute in their quest for fairness and equality.

So, as we bid adieu to this rollercoaster of a story, may it serve as an eternal testament to the strength and spirit of underdogs everywhere. In a world where triumphs are often marred by corruption and deceit, this company’s unwavering dedication to justice is a beacon of hope for those who believe that good always prevails in the end. Remember, dear readers, perseverance is not merely a virtue; it is the very foundation upon which dreams are built, and victories are won.

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MEASA Partners Throws a SPAC-tacular Party While STT GDC Gears Up for a $1-Billion Data-Center-palooza

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Abu Dhabi-based MEASA Partners will list a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) in collaboration with Credit Suisse Group AG and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC, marking the second SPAC listing in the Middle East. Temasek-backed data center operator STT GDC plans a $1 billion pre-IPO funding round that could surpass Sea Ltd’s 2017 IPO and make it one of the biggest first-time share sales in the region.

In a world where the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) are joining forces to bring you the latest and greatest in business news, it’s no surprise that we’re seeing some exciting developments on the horizon. So, buckle up, dear readers, because we’re diving headfirst into a whirlwind of investment opportunities and billion-dollar dreams.

First up, we have MEASA Partners – an Abu Dhabi-based investment firm – gearing up to list a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) this year, thanks to their collaboration with Credit Suisse Group AG and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC. This marks the second SPAC listing in the Middle East, a region that’s clearly no slouch when it comes to making waves in the world of finance. The first SPAC, ADC Acquisition Corporation PJSC, was launched last April, courtesy of ADQ and Chimera Investments.

Now, MEASA Partners isn’t just some fly-by-night operation. Oh no, this firm was founded by the Al-Maskari family, joined by the dynamic duo of Russell Read and Peter Lejre. Together, they’ve crafted a partnership platform designed to develop investment strategies that can attract a whole heap of capital to invest across the MEASA region via Abu Dhabi. And let’s not forget the acronym, MEASA, which was coined by the founders themselves back in 2018. That’s right – they’ve got a catchphrase, and they’re not afraid to use it!

But wait, there’s more! Temasek-backed data center operator STT GDC is planning a $1 billion pre-IPO funding round. That’s roughly equivalent to $1,000,000,000 USD (give or take a few pennies) and is enough to make even the most seasoned investors sit up and take notice. With STT GDC based in Singapore and boasting over 170 facilities across Asia, it’s clear that they’re not just playing in the kiddie pool when it comes to data center operations.

Now, if you think a $1 billion pre-IPO funding round is impressive, just imagine the possibilities for an actual IPO. We’re talking about a potential listing that could surpass Sea Ltd’s $989 million IPO back in 2017, which would make STT GDC one of the biggest first-time share sales in the region. And with Temasek-owned Singapore Technologies Telemedia Pte as its parent company, it’s clear that STT GDC has some solid backing to help them reach the stars.

So, where does all this leave us? Well, for one thing, it’s obvious that the Middle East and Asia are becoming increasingly important players in the global business landscape. Companies like MEASA Partners and STT GDC are leading the charge, showcasing innovative and forward-thinking strategies that have the potential to shape the future of investment in these regions.

In conclusion, it’s safe to say that there’s never been a better time to keep an eye on the MEASA region and its burgeoning business scene. With investment powerhouses like MEASA Partners and STT GDC paving the way, the sky’s the limit for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show – after all, the future of business is unfolding right before our very eyes.

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VinFast & Furious: Vietnam’s EV Star Merges with Black Spade in Record-Breaking SPAC Vroomance

TLDR:
VinFast is merging with Black Spade Acquisition Co., resulting in the largest-ever US listing for a Southeast Asian company. VinFast shareholders will own approximately 99% of the combined entity, and the company aims to break the trend of struggling EV manufacturers post-SPAC mergers and expand its global presence.

Well, folks, it appears that Vietnam’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, VinFast, is getting ready to rev its engines and embark on a thrilling ride. The company recently announced that it’s merging with Black Spade Acquisition Co., making it the largest-ever US listing for a Southeast Asian company. Once the deal is done, VinFast’s equity value will stand at a whopping $23 billion, with its total valuation, including debt, reaching around $27 billion. The merger should come to a close in the second half of 2022, provided that pesky regulatory and shareholder approvals go through.

But wait, there’s more! VinFast shareholders will emerge as the winners, owning approximately 99% of the combined entity. Pretty sweet deal, huh? Black Spade Acquisition Co., a blank-check company, saw its shares rise by up to 12% in pre-market trading following the merger announcement. VinFast is joining a select club of Asian companies seeking to list in the US through mergers with special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs). However, it’s worth noting that similar deals have slowed down recently, thanks to tighter regulatory oversight and unenthusiastic market sentiment.

As VinFast saddles up for this exhilarating journey, it has a clear ambition: to break the trend of electric vehicle manufacturers facing difficulties after SPAC mergers. Previous examples include Nikola Corp., Lordstown Motors Corp., and Canoo Inc., all of whom wiped out shareholders post-merger. Let’s not forget Electric Last Mile Solutions Inc., an EV hopeful that filed for bankruptcy just about a year ago. Should VinFast’s SPAC merger prove to be successful, it would be a sweet victory lap for the company’s years-long efforts to go public.

VinFast isn’t just content with making headlines; it’s also vrooming to expand beyond Vietnam. The company has plans to build a factory in North Carolina and ship its first vehicles to Europe in July. It has already sent a second batch of electric cars to North America in April, with US customer deliveries starting this month. VinFast’s CEO, Le Thi Thu Thuy, believes that partnering with Black Spade and listing in the US is the perfect way to raise capital for the company’s global ambitions.

Now, let’s talk about VinFast’s founder, Pham Nhat Vuong, Vietnam’s richest person with a net worth of $3.9 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Vuong, who started his own business while studying in Moscow, has invested as much as $2 billion in VinFast since its inception in 2017. But wait, there’s even more generosity! Vuong announced last month that he would donate an additional $1 billion to the EV maker within the next year. Vingroup, Vuong’s company, is also committing to provide a loan of $1 billion for up to five years and chip in another $500 million.

Finally, let’s not forget about Black Spade Acquisition Co., which raised $169 million in a US IPO in 2021. The Hong Kong-based blank-check firm is on the lookout for targets related to or in the entertainment industry, focusing on enabling technology, lifestyle brands, products or services, and entertainment media. Black Spade Capital Ltd., its sponsor, is the private investment arm of Lawrence Ho, the chairman and CEO of casino operator Melco International Development Ltd.

In a nutshell, VinFast’s merger with Black Spade Acquisition Co. is revving up excitement in the electric vehicle market. As the company aims to break the trend of struggling EV manufacturers post-SPAC mergers and expand its global presence, the future for VinFast, its shareholders, and the EV industry as a whole looks electric.

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