May-hem or May-haps? Hazy Market Predictions Won’t Sink A Solid Portfolio

A Gene-ius Merger: Anew Medical’s $94M Nasdaq Debut with Redwoods Acquisition Corp.

TLDR:
Anew Medical and Redwoods Acquisition Corp. have merged, with Anew receiving $64m in cash and $30m in stock, and the combined company set to hit the Nasdaq with a $94m valuation. Anew will maintain its management team while gaining resources and expertise to fund its research and development activities, expand clinical trials and increase manufacturing capacity, while also gaining access to pharmaceutical industry partnerships.

In a world where medical miracles are as rare as a real conversation on social media, gene therapy developer Anew Medical Inc. and the fine folks at Redwoods Acquisition Corp. have joined forces in a merger that will list Anew on the Nasdaq at a $94 million valuation. A testament to their potential and commitment to revolutionizing the healthcare industry, this monumental merger is sure to send shockwaves through the medical community.

Anew Medical Inc., known for being at the cutting edge of gene therapy and having a research lab that probably looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, will receive $64 million in cold, hard cash, and $30 million in Redwood stock, distributed to its shareholders. Anew’s current management team will continue to lead the combined company, while the CEO of Redwoods will join its board of directors. The transaction is anticipated to close in the second half of the year, provided all the regulatory hoop-jumping and customary closing conditions are met.

With the merger providing Anew both resources and expertise needed to speed up growth and commercialization, the company also gains access to the public market, swimming in a pool of funding for its research and development activities. Additionally, the partnership will allow Anew to tap into Redwoods’ extensive network of industry connections and relationships, like a person with too many friends and not enough time. This collaboration will help expand the company’s reach and introduce it to new markets.

Anew’s gene therapy platform is built on proprietary technology designed for precise targeting of specific genes, allowing the development of highly effective and personalized therapies. Because who wouldn’t want the luxury of custom-made treatments? Their current portfolio includes gene therapies in various stages of development, spanning from cancer treatments to genetic and rare diseases. The company’s treatment has shown promising results in those preclinical and early clinical studies that make scientists giddy with excitement, and they’re ready to initiate late-stage clinical trials in the near future.

The merger with Redwoods will enable Anew to hit the gas pedal on its research and development activities, expand clinical trials, and increase its manufacturing capacity. It’s like a mad scientist getting unlimited resources and lab time. Moreover, the company will be able to expand its sales and marketing infrastructure and establish partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and other industry players. With the support of Redwoods and its experienced management team, Anew is poised to capture the significant growth opportunities in the gene therapy market.

In conclusion, the merger of Anew Medical Inc. and Redwoods Acquisition Corp. is a transformative moment for not only Anew but for the entire healthcare industry. This union will allow the company to reach its full potential, and with the backing of Redwoods, create a leading gene therapy company that drives greater value for shareholders, employees, and patients – because, after all, who wouldn’t want to see a world where a single targeted gene therapy can change the course of a person’s health? It’s not just business; it’s the future of medicine, and it’s happening right here, right now.

Disclaimer

From Net Loss to Net Boss: A SPAC II Turns the Financial Tide to Rake in $2 Million Q1 Profit

TLDR:
SPAC II transformed from a net loss of $0.00002 million to a net income of $2 million, but must remain innovative to ensure ongoing prosperity. The company is committed to providing the best possible experience to customers and values transparency and accountability.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather round for a tale of triumph and tenacity. Behold the miraculous transformation of SPAC II Acquisition Corporation, which went from a paltry net loss of a whole $0.00002 million – that’s right, not even enough to buy a pack of gum – to a jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring net income of $2 million. Break out the champagne and caviar, folks, because this is truly a feat worth celebrating.

But let’s not get too carried away with excitement. After all, a single good quarter does not a masterpiece make. Prancing about in the glow of recent success is all well and good, but the real test will be ensuring this newfound prosperity doesn’t prove as fleeting as a sandcastle in the surf. The folks at SPAC II must remain vigilant and continue to innovate their products and services, lest they find themselves back in the financial doldrums.

And speaking of innovation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the company’s unwavering commitment to providing their customers with the best possible experience. While we may not know exactly what SPAC II is whipping up in the lab, one thing’s for sure – they’re determined to make sure it’s top-notch. After all, when you’ve clawed your way out of the net loss abyss, there’s no time to rest on your laurels.

But don’t you worry, dear reader, because transparency and accountability are high on the company’s list of priorities. You can rest assured that the information you need to make informed decisions will be readily available, like a trusty sidekick ready to help you conquer the wild world of business.

Now, it wouldn’t be fair to wrap up this little tale of triumph without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. So, let’s take a moment to applaud the employees, customers, and shareholders of SPAC II Acquisition Corporation for their unwavering support. After all, success is a team sport, and it’s clear that SPAC II’s team is playing to win.

So, as we watch SPAC II bask in the glow of its $0.09 earnings per share from continuing operations – both basic and diluted, mind you – let’s hope they continue to ride this wave of success. Because in the unpredictable world of business, it’s anyone’s guess what the next quarter will bring. But for now, dear friends, let’s raise a glass to the good folks at SPAC II Acquisition Corporation and toast to their hard-earned success. Cheers!

Disclaimer

Schmid Goes Public: From Iron Foundry to NYSE in Just 158 Years!

TLDR:
Schmid Group merges with Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp to become a $640 million NYSE-listed company, marking SPACs’ shift to stable targets. Schmid Group’s majority ownership and management positions will remain while aiming to accelerate growth and expand into new markets, including the automotive sector, with the help of Pegasus’s experienced team.

In the world of business, where money talks and innovation takes a back seat, it’s a pleasure to witness a company with over a century of history shake things up with a public debut. The Schmid Group, a German powerhouse of advanced electronics manufacturing technology, has decided to do just that as they leap into the wild, wacky world of the New York Stock Exchange. And who better to guide them into this new era than an auto industry veteran called Ralph Speth, and his blank-check company, Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp?

The merger with Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. has left Schmid Group in a pretty cozy spot, valuing the family-owned company at $640 million, including debt. This isn’t just another deal in the cutthroat world of special-purpose acquisition companies (SPACs). No, this marks a significant shift, as SPACs are now targeting growing, profitable ventures after getting a little too cozy with wobbly startups in 2020 and 2021. It seems that SPACs have finally learned from their past mistakes and are setting their sights on more stable targets.

Schmid Group’s roots can be traced back to 1864 as an iron foundry in Freudenstadt, a picturesque town in the heart of the Black Forest. This is a place where fresh air and lush trails are aplenty, but don’t be fooled by its fairytale-like setting; Schmid Group has been hard at work creating technologies for industries such as renewable power and energy storage. With over 800 employees under its umbrella, Schmid has been responsible for developing equipment and manufacturing processes for printed circuit boards. But don’t worry, the Schmid family isn’t going anywhere. They will maintain majority ownership and retain management positions after the listing on the New York Stock Exchange.

Christian Schmid, the company’s CEO, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming endeavor, stating that becoming an NYSE-listed company will strengthen Schmid’s position as a global solutions provider and accelerate their growth trajectory and innovation. It’s truly heartwarming to see a company wanting to excel not just for the sake of profit but also for the betterment of all stakeholders involved.

On the other side of this partnership, Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corporation raised $200 million in its October 2021 IPO and has been looking for deals in areas such as next-generation transportation. Backed by StratCap, an investment firm focused on digital infrastructure, Pegasus CEO Speth has over 20 years of experience with BMW AG and played a significant role in running Jaguar Land Rover after its sale to India’s Tata Motors.

With the experienced team of former Morgan Stanley investment banker F. Jeremy Mistry as the SPAC’s CFO, and ex-Jaguar Land Rover executive Stephen Berger as CIO, Speth had this to say about the partnership: “We are excited to partner with the Schmid team to further grow the group’s platform and accelerate expansion into new attractive markets, including the automotive sector.” It seems like a match made in heaven, or at least a very productive conference room.

So, dear readers, as we celebrate this partnership between Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corporation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the power of forward-thinking collaboration and the value of continuous innovation in the technology industry. In a world where the pace of change is breakneck, it’s refreshing to see that some companies still prioritize staying ahead of the curve. Here’s to Schmid Group’s future success and the endless possibilities they will undoubtedly create.

Disclaimer

VinFast & Furious: Vietnamese EV Maker Merges with NYSE-Listed SPAC to Conquer the US Market

TLDR:
VinFast is set to merge with Black Spade Acquisition Co. (BSAQ) on the NYSE, creating a capital value of $23 billion and an enterprise value of $27 billion. The highly automated electric vehicle manufacturer based in Vietnam has a maximum production capacity of 300,000 units, positioning itself as a global leader in the industry.

Hello, fellow capitalists! Today we’ll discuss the latest act of corporate matrimony between VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, and Black Spade Acquisition Co. (BSAQ). It seems VinFast is ready to walk down the aisle with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The couple plans to produce shiny new electric vehicles, perfect for taking a leisurely drive through smog-infested cities. The merger will grant VinFast its debut on the NYSE, and access to capital to grow its business and continue to innovate. If only we could all get such a nice wedding gift, right?

VinFast hasn’t been shy about making headlines with its VF 8 SUV, which has been spotted cruising the streets of California. The company boasts a maximum production capacity of 300,000 units annually. To put that in perspective, that’s enough electric vehicles to create a line of traffic from New York to Los Angeles, give or take. According to the International Energy Agency, the electric vehicle market is expected to grow by 35% this year. It seems VinFast is strategically positioned to take full advantage of this trend, like a surfer riding the wave of a tsunami.

The transaction itself is expected to close in the second half of 2023, with the combined company boasting a capital value of $23 billion and an enterprise value of $27 billion. That’s enough money to make Elon Musk shed a single, silent tear. Founded in 2017 and backed by Vietnamese billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, VinFast is eager to join the ranks of Tesla, Rivian, Lucid Group, and Nikola Corporation in the race to dominate the U.S. stock market.

Some critics have voiced concern that the SPAC listing overvalues the company. But VinFast seems to have a solid track record and is well-positioned to grow globally. The company’s full range of electric vehicles includes SUVs, scooters, and buses—something for everyone, from soccer moms to environmentally conscious public transit enthusiasts. With plans to expand to Europe, VinFast might soon conquer the world with its electric dreams.

VinFast’s highly automated production facility in Haiphong, northeastern Vietnam, is capable of creating up to 300,000 vehicles each year. This makes it one of the most advanced and efficient electric vehicle manufacturers in the world—or the Willy Wonka of electric transportation, if you will. As the planet struggles with the impacts of climate change, VinFast aims to be at the forefront with innovative electric vehicle technology. Surely, Mother Nature is smiling down upon their efforts.

The company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence has made it a global leader in the electric vehicle industry. This merger is a testament to VinFast’s continued success and growth, much like a proud parent watching their child graduate from kindergarten. With cutting-edge technology, a focus on sustainability, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, VinFast is poised to become a major player in the global electric vehicle market. In essence, VinFast is the new kid on the block, ready to show the neighborhood that electric vehicles are the way of the future.

So, ladies and gentlemen, buckle up and prepare for a wild ride with VinFast as it enters the electric vehicle ring. Armed with a shiny new merger and a commitment to sustainability and innovation, VinFast plans to take the world by storm. The future of transportation is looking brighter, and undoubtedly more electric. Stay tuned for further updates on this electrifying development.

Disclaimer

Bank on It: Western Alliance Ain’t Going, PacWest Ponders Sale, and First Horizon Dodges the TD Merger Mess

TLDR:
Western Alliance denies sale rumors, PacWest Bancorp explores strategic options including potential sale.
JP Morgan acquires First Republic for $10.6 billion, while First Horizon and TD Bank call off proposed merger.

Well, folks, it’s another rollercoaster week in the world of banking, and I’m here to give you the highlights. For starters, Western Alliance has decided to play a little game of “deny, deny, deny” when it comes to those pesky rumors of a potential sale. Yes, the market may be turbulent, but they’ve reassured investors that they’re not considering any strategic options, and that their footing is as solid as their 26% drop in shares this week. Bravo!

On the other hand, PacWest Bancorp has admitted that they’re playing the field, exploring some strategic options – including possibly selling themselves off. It seems their shares took a 43% nosedive this week, so the market is keeping a keen eye on this developing story. Maybe it’s time for a good old-fashioned bank swap.

But wait, there’s more! JP Morgan has graciously decided to acquire First Republic, with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation blessing the union. They’ll be shelling out a cool $10.6 billion to the FDIC, while also providing a $50 billion, five-year fixed-rate loan facility. Sounds like a match made in banking heaven. The deal is expected to be slightly accretive to earnings per share and add more than $500 million in annual net income. Not too shabby, JP!

Alas, not every marriage is meant to be. First Horizon and TD Bank have called it quits on their proposed merger, with both parties agreeing to go their separate ways. The breakup announcement sent First Horizon’s share price tumbling down more than 33% on Thursday. But don’t worry, the bank is confident it’ll bounce back – just like every newly-single person hitting the dating market again.

Finally, Apollo managed to put a ring on it with Arconic, and their shares rose more than 28% after the acquisition was announced. Arconic shareholders will be walking away with a nice $30.00 in cash per share, which values the company at around $5.2 billion. Not too shabby for a company with a name that sounds like it should be exploring space instead of dealing with metals.

In the ever-changing landscape of banking, it seems there’s never a dull moment. InvestingPro subscribers have the privilege of being the first to know about these market-shaking updates, ensuring they can react faster than you can say “stock market.” If you’re not subscribed yet, what are you waiting for? Sign up for a 7-day free trial and never miss a beat.

As we look forward to next week, who knows what surprises the world of business will have in store for us? Will Western Alliance continue to deny rumors until they’re blue in the face? Will PacWest Bancorp find a new partner in the banking dance? And will First Horizon recover from their broken heart and soar once more? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – it’s never a dull day in the world of finance.

Disclaimer

BetterWorld Breakup: Heritage Distilling Merger Goes Up in Flames, Mysterious Reasons Thirst for Attention

TLDR:
BetterWorld Acquisition Corp. has called off its engagement to Heritage Distilling due to its dwindling trust account, highlighting the risks of SPACs. SPACs continue to make waves in the business world, with some successful mergers and others failing to make it to the altar.

In the ever-fascinating world of business, BetterWorld Acquisition Corp., a SPAC with a heart of gold and a wallet that’s springing a leak, has called off its engagement to Heritage Distilling. While the reason for this abrupt separation wasn’t disclosed in their SEC filing, rumor has it that BetterWorld’s dwindling trust account might be the culprit. Once boasting $44 million, it now contains a paltry $31.8 million – a sum that could barely buy you a decent yacht these days.

Now, SPACs have been the talk of Finance Town in recent years, serving as an enticing alternative for companies looking to go public without having to endure the torturous traditional IPO process. But like a rollercoaster at an amusement park with questionable safety standards, the SPAC market has had its fair share of ups, downs, and sideways glances from regulators and investors.

Despite the scrutiny, SPACs continue to make waves in the business world. Beard Energy, a SPAC that presumably runs on facial hair follicles, recently announced plans to merge with residential solar company Suntuity. Meanwhile, Nabors Energy has extended the deadline to complete its merger with Vast Solar, proving that perhaps the SPAC life isn’t for everyone. And SunCar’s stock price exemplifies the rollercoaster analogy, soaring 102% after initially plummeting 33% during its debut.

As for BetterWorld, their future remains as hazy as the air quality in a congested city. They were reportedly in talks with Dubai-based waste disposal company Averda back in January 2022. But with their current financial situation, one has to wonder if BetterWorld is destined to become a SPAC that couldn’t quite make it to the altar.

In the grand scheme of things, a failed merger isn’t the end of the world – or is it? The business world has seen its fair share of broken engagements, and sometimes it’s for the best. After all, even the most starry-eyed optimist can’t deny that sometimes bad mergers lead to worse problems down the road.

To sum it up, the SPAC market is a veritable smorgasbord of opportunity, disappointment, and intrigue. Whether it’s a successful merger, a canceled engagement, or a stock price that can’t quite make up its mind, one thing’s for sure – the business world never ceases to keep us entertained. So, grab your popcorn and pull up a chair, because in the unpredictable world of SPACs, the show must go on.

As BetterWorld and Heritage Distilling move on from their failed merger, it’s a gentle reminder that not all that glitters is gold, or in this case, a successful business combination. But don’t let this dampen your spirits (pun intended); the business world continues to churn out interesting twists and turns that keep us guessing and occasionally laughing.

In conclusion, the saga of BetterWorld Acquisition Corp. and Heritage Distilling serves as a cautionary tale for star-crossed SPACs everywhere. While the world may never know the true reason behind their breakup, it’s clear that the SPAC market isn’t always a bed of roses. But hey, at least we’ll always have the memories – and the adrenaline rush of watching it all unfold.

Disclaimer

Digital World’s Pickle: Truth Social’s SPAC Partner Caught Fudging the Books, Faces Nasdaq Delisting Dilemma

TLDR:
Digital World Acquisition Corp faces potential delisting from Nasdaq due to accounting errors and failure to file an earnings report, while also dealing with investigations and a rushed deal with Trump’s media company. The company is developing a remediation plan to address the material weakness in their internal control over financial reporting, but the consequences could be significant for both the Trump media empire and the company’s stockholders.

Digital World Acquisition Corp, the company planning to merge with the parent company of Donald Trump’s Truth Social platform, now finds itself in a bit of a pickle. Regulators have discovered accounting errors in their last financial report, threatening to delist them from Nasdaq. To make matters worse, there are two ongoing investigations delaying the deal with Trump. Even though Trump-backed SPACs are up by 10%, translating to a $100 million profit for Trump, the rough patch that Digital World is going through is about as surprising as a celebrity going bankrupt after a reality TV show.

In a May 18 filing, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) found that Digital World, a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC), had made accounting errors in its annual financial report for 2022. The SEC declared that the year-end report could no longer be relied upon, which must feel similar to finding out your financial advisor moonlights as a used car salesman. Consequently, Digital World is now developing a remediation plan to address the material weakness in their internal control over financial reporting.

Adding to their list of concerns, Digital World Acquisition has not filed an earnings report for the first quarter of 2023. This is required for all companies listed on Nasdaq, and they now have until July 24 to submit a plan or face being delisted from the stock exchange. The SEC can choose to accept or deny their plan, and if rejected, Digital World can file an appeal. While navigating the turbulent waters of regulatory compliance, Digital World said in a public statement that the warning was expected and that they are working diligently to file their earnings before the deadline.

Meanwhile, Digital World Acquisition Corporation, which is tightly connected to President Trump, has fired CEO Patrick Orlando. The SPAC is now rushing to close the deal with Trump’s media company, as reported by the New York Times. With the future of Digital World Acquisition Corp looking as uncertain as the odds of a coin toss, the consequences could be significant for both the Trump media empire and the company’s stockholders.

It’s crucial to stay on top of trends in these unpredictable times, especially when it comes to the fate of Digital World Acquisition Corp. As a business reporter, I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you to keep a close eye on the developments in this ever-evolving story. After all, the financial world waits for no one, and neither should you.

So, as we watch the saga of Digital World Acquisition Corp unfold, it’s essential to remember that the world of finance can be as fickle and fleeting as the latest TikTok dance craze. One moment you’re on top, and the next, you’re facing delisting and regulatory scrutiny. The financial landscape is constantly shifting, and as the story of Digital World Acquisition Corp shows, it pays to be prepared for anything.

In conclusion, the trials and tribulations faced by Digital World Acquisition Corp serve as a reminder to stay informed and adaptable in the constantly changing landscape of business and finance. Whether it’s accounting errors or delayed earnings reports, companies like Digital World Acquisition Corp must navigate the precarious world of regulatory compliance, lest they find themselves delisted and left out in the cold.

Disclaimer

VinFast & Furious: Mega Merger Puts Vietnamese EVs in the Fast Lane to U.S. Market

TLDR:
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast Auto merges with Black Spade Acquisition Company, creating a $27 billion valuation and granting access to the US market. The merger allows VinFast Auto to expand rapidly, championing a cleaner and more efficient future for the transportation system.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round, as I present to you a tale of mergers and acquisitions that could send shivers down the spines of industry insiders. VinFast Auto Pte. Ltd., a Vietnamese electric car maker backed by the country’s wealthiest man, Pham Nhat Vuong, is breathing new life into the realm of blank check companies with its US public debut via SPAC. The merger with Hong Kong’s Black Spade Acquisition Company sports a jaw-dropping $27 billion valuation, including debt, making it the third-largest deal of its kind.

But before you hastily label this as a desperate attempt by a fledgling automaker, let’s take a deeper look at the potential impact of this merger. Founded in 2017, VinFast Auto has already made a name for itself within the electric vehicle (EV) market, boasting cutting-edge technology and innovative design. This merger sets the stage for the company to expand its reach even further, granting access to the highly lucrative US market.

With the support of Black Spade Acquisition, VinFast Auto gains the resources required for rapid expansion. One might wonder why this merger is worth our attention. Well, for starters, it signifies a monumental shift within the EV market. The industry is growing at breakneck speed, and VinFast Auto’s merger is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s highly likely that more innovative companies will emerge in the coming years, altering the automotive landscape in ways previously unimaginable.

The implications of this merger extend beyond the EV market. VinFast Auto is on a mission to revolutionize the entire transportation system with a focus on sustainability and innovation. By championing a cleaner, more efficient future, this company is poised to make the world a better place for us all.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “$27 billion? That’s an absurd valuation!” Well, my skeptical friends, VinFast Auto’s astonishing growth and advanced technology more than justify its hefty price tag. With this merger, the company is better equipped for even greater expansion, and we can expect to see some truly impressive growth in the years ahead.

As VinFast Auto continues to shake up the EV market, it’s safe to say we’re in for quite a roller coaster ride. The merger with Black Spade Acquisition has paved the way for a cleaner, more efficient future, and who knows—maybe we’ll all be cruising around in VinFast vehicles someday. Stranger things have happened, right?

But let’s not get too carried away with daydreams of a world filled with electric vehicles. The merger between VinFast Auto and Black Spade Acquisition is not without its risks. As with any high-profile deal, there are potential roadblocks that could derail the company’s ambitious plans. For instance, recent reviews of VinFast’s US models have been less than stellar, which could hinder their ability to make a splash in the American market.

Despite these potential pitfalls, VinFast Auto’s merger remains an intriguing development—one that could signal a bright future for the EV industry as a whole. As the world continues to seek cleaner, more efficient transportation solutions, companies like VinFast Auto are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

In conclusion, VinFast Auto’s merger with Black Spade Acquisition is a fascinating chapter in the ongoing story of the EV market. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and rapid expansion, this Vietnamese automaker is poised to make a lasting impact. As the future of personal transportation continues to evolve, we can only hope that VinFast Auto’s success will pave the way for further advancements in this essential industry. So buckle up, everyone—things are about to get electrifying.

Disclaimer

New Amsterdam Invest’s Real Estate SPAC-tacular Debut on Euronext Amsterdam!

TLDR:
New Amsterdam Invest N.V. (NAI) successfully went public on Euronext Amsterdam through a De-SPAC transaction with Somerset Park B.V. and plans to focus on optimizing tenant line up, creating long-term leases with tenants, and diversifying in geography and segment. NAI has a diversified portfolio of commercial properties in both the UK and the US, with approximately $58 million in cash and $26.5 million in debt.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather around for the thrilling tale of New Amsterdam Invest N.V. (NAI) and its victorious journey to going public on Euronext Amsterdam through a De-SPAC transaction with Somerset Park B.V. If this doesn’t get your blood pumping, I don’t know what will.

So let’s break down the impressive accomplishments of NAI. With a diversified portfolio of commercial properties in both the UK and the US, the company is poised to conquer the world like a modern-day Alexander the Great, but with a slightly better understanding of property management. With the potential for further investments, it’s a rollercoaster of excitement that only goes up (we hope).

Now, it takes a special kind of person to lead such a daring venture, and it seems NAI has found the perfect candidate in Aren van Dam, the CEO. A man who not only appreciates the support of valued shareholders but also knows a thing or two about optimizing tenant structure and securing long-term leases. It’s comforting to know that NAI is in capable hands, guiding the company as it diversifies its geographic and segmental focus like a well-coordinated ballet performance.

With approximately $58 million in cash and $26.5 million in debt, NAI is armed to the teeth and ready to meet its ambitious targets. The company’s success thus far is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its team, and we can’t help but feel a sense of pride for their accomplishments. One can only hope this momentum continues as the company grows and expands its business, like a beautiful, unstoppable snowball rolling down a hill.

In a world of uncertainty and chaos, it’s reassuring to know that some things are moving forward and reaching new heights. Euronext congratulates NAI on its listing (ticker code: NAI) and the successful business combination transaction with Somerset Park B.V. and the Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) New Amsterdam Invest. It’s like witnessing the birth of a beautiful baby unicorn, except this unicorn deals in commercial real estate and has a more diversified portfolio.

The main objectives for NAI going forward include the owning, (re-) developing, acquiring, divesting, maintaining, and letting out of commercial real estate – all in the broadest possible meaning, of course. So hold onto your hats, folks, because the company plans to focus on optimizing the tenant line up, creating long-term lease commitments with tenants, and diversifying in geography and segment. FRI (full repair and insurance) leases, anyone? It’s the cherry on top of this delicious real estate sundae.

In conclusion, let’s all raise a glass to New Amsterdam Invest N.V. and its bright future ahead. With $58 million in cash and a diversified portfolio of commercial properties in both the UK and the US, this company is poised to take the world by storm. And remember, if the Nigerian prince comes knocking with investment opportunities, just pretend you’re not home. Congratulations, NAI!

Disclaimer

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.

Disclaimer