Canadian Market Slips, but BMO’s Stock Dip Teaches a Lesson: Stay Calm & Carry On Investing, Eh?

VinFast IPO: Fast & Electrious – Vietnamese Automaker Charges into US Market with $27 Billion Valuation

TLDR:
Vietnamese automaker VinFast is preparing for its U.S. IPO after agreeing on a business combination with Black Spade Acquisition Company, with an equity value of $23 billion and an enterprise value of $27 billion. VinFast has already delivered four EV models in Vietnam and is expanding its reach in Europe and the U.S. with a manufacturing hub in North Carolina. Existing VinFast shareholders will own approximately 99% of the combined company once the transaction is completed and approved.

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats, because the world of automaking is about to get a whole lot more interesting. VinFast Auto, a rather ambitious Vietnamese car brand, is on the fast track to finally achieving its long-awaited U.S. IPO, thanks to a business combination agreement with the quite mysterious Black Spade Acquisition Company. With a proposed enterprise value of $27 billion and an equity value of $23 billion, it’s safe to say VinFast is not exactly playing small potatoes here.

The young automaker has already made quite a dent in its native Vietnam, having delivered four different EV models, and is simultaneously expanding its reach to Europe and preparing to break ground in North Carolina for its US manufacturing hub. It seems VinFast is moving at lightning speed, outpacing even the most well-established automakers on the planet, with global expansion plans as ambitious as its proposed valuation.

But such grand plans require equally grand funding, as evidenced by VinGroup chairman Pham Nhat Vuong’s recent $1 billion personal contribution to the cause. With this level of financial commitment, it’s clear that VinFast is not content to simply be a regional contender; it has its sights set on the international stage and is prepared to put its money where its mouth is.

The upcoming IPO, which has been a hot topic of discussion since VinFast first made its intentions known several years ago, is now one step closer to reality. By combining forces with Black Spade Acquisition Company, VinFast is solidifying its position in the market and gearing up for a big splash on the New York Stock Exchange. Once the transaction is completed and approved, existing VinFast shareholders will own approximately 99% of the combined company, demonstrating a level of confidence in the automaker’s future that is nothing short of astounding.

With the automotive industry in the midst of a once-in-a-century transformation, VinFast’s focus on electric vehicles puts it in an enviable position to capitalize on the shift away from petrol-powered cars. The company has already proven its ability to quickly enter international markets, as evidenced by the recent delivery of the VF 8 to customers on the West Coast of North America. With expansions underway in Europe and the imminent groundbreaking of its North Carolina facility, VinFast’s future is looking brighter than ever.

The closing of the transaction is expected to occur in the second half of 2023, subject to the usual regulatory and shareholder approvals. And once that happens, there’s no telling what heights this plucky Vietnamese automaker will reach. So, buckle up, my friends: VinFast is poised to take the automotive world by storm, and we’re all in for one heck of a ride.

In conclusion, VinFast’s daring leap into the world of electric vehicles and global markets is an impressive testament to the company’s courage, determination, and innovative spirit. The upcoming IPO and business combination agreement with Black Spade Acquisition Co will not only provide the capital needed to fuel VinFast’s ambitious plans, but also serve as a ringing endorsement of the market’s confidence in the automaker’s future. So, keep your eyes peeled, folks; VinFast is about to embark on a remarkable journey, and we wouldn’t want to miss a single moment of it.

Disclaimer

Dave Matthews Band’s NY Tour: Moonwalking to Upstate, Wheezing Wallets Optional

TLDR:
The Dave Matthews Band is set to tour upstate New York in 2023, with shows starting on June 14 and continuing on July 14 and 15. Their new album, “Walk Around the Moon”, will be released on May 19, featuring 12 original songs and fresh musical elements.

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats, because the Dave Matthews Band is back in business. Yes, that’s right – the legendary group plans to grace upstate New York with their presence in 2023, offering a much-needed dose of nostalgia and good vibes. The tour kicks off on June 14 at the Darien Lake Amphitheater near Buffalo and continues with a double whammy at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) in Saratoga Springs on July 14 and 15.

Now, you might be wondering why the band has decided to bless us with their presence once more. Well, it just so happens that they’ve got a new album in the works. “Walk Around the Moon” is set to be released on May 19 and features 12 original songs, making it their 10th studio album. So, not only will fans get to bask in the comforting glow of the band’s signature sound, but they’ll also be treated to some fresh tunes and intriguing musical elements.

Getting your hands on a ticket to one of these shows is, understandably, a top priority for many. Luckily, tickets are already available on LiveNation, with lawn seats starting at a cool $65.20 for all three performances. But fear not, frugal music lovers – resale sites like StubHub, Vividseats, SeatGeek, and more offer tickets, sometimes at more budget-friendly prices. Just remember to pack your binoculars if you’re opting for the cheaper seats.

To make your ticket hunt a little easier, we’ve compiled a price list for each show on the following websites:

StubHub offers lawn tickets starting at $68 for the June 14 show, with section seats starting at $112. For the July 14 and 15 concerts, lawn tickets start at $64 and $58, respectively, and section seats start at $112 and $125.

VividSeats has similar pricing, with lawn tickets starting at $67 for the June 14 performance and section seats starting at $99. For the July 14 and 15 shows, lawn tickets start at $59 and $61, respectively, and section seats start at $111 and a slightly steeper $234.

SeatGeek, on the other hand, offers the cheapest lawn tickets, starting at $57 for the June 14 show and $55 and $53 for the July 14 and 15 concerts. However, their section seat prices are a bit heftier, ranging from $144 to $304.

If you’re still on the fence about attending one of these magical performances, don’t forget that summer is a prime time for concerts in upstate New York. To help you make up your mind, check out our articles on shows featuring Young the Giant, Chris Stapleton, Thomas Rhett, and Toosii. And, as always, stay tuned for more exciting news and updates on all things music-related.

In conclusion, the upcoming Dave Matthews Band tour and album release is an exciting prospect for fans and music enthusiasts alike. With a range of ticket prices available across various platforms, there’s no reason not to indulge in the experience of seeing this iconic band perform live once more. So, don your favorite band shirt, brush up on the lyrics, and get ready for a night (or three) of musical bliss with the Dave Matthews Band.

Disclaimer

When SPAC Meets Biotech: Forbion’s $130M IPO Bag Snags enGene in Gene-ius Merger Move

TLDR:
Forbion European Acquisition Corp. merged with Canadian biotech company enGene, with $130M raised during Forbion’s IPO and $90.6M investment commitment from Forbion Growth, to revolutionize non-viral gene therapy research and likely make waves in the market.

Ladies and gentlemen, hold on to your lab coats and safety goggles, because the world of biotechnology is getting a facelift. Forbion European Acquisition Corp., a SPAC with a penchant for dollar signs, has merged with enGene, a Canadian biotech company that dabbles in non-viral gene therapy. Rest assured, with the amount of money thrown around in this deal, we’re sure they’ll be able to mend the biotech industry’s broken heart.

Forbion European Acquisition Corp. raised a remarkable $130 million during its IPO in December 2021 – an amount that makes you wonder if they’ve discovered the secret to turning water into money. But alas, they’re just really good at raising capital. The merger with enGene will be funded by $15.8 million of FRBN Class A common stock, and a $90.6 million investment commitment by Forbion Growth. With this kind of cash, they could probably buy several small islands, but instead, they’re choosing to invest in the future of gene therapy.

EnGene, a company that’s been pushing the envelope with its non-viral gene therapy research, is on the cusp of revolutionizing the treatment of genetic diseases. And now, with the help of their new sugar daddy, Forbion European Acquisition Corp., the possibilities are endless. While the merger is expected to close in the latter half of the year, the combined company will trade on the Nasdaq, where they’ll likely make some serious waves in the market.

This unlikely marriage of innovation and heavy investment may have some critics shaking their heads, but let’s face it, when ambition and collaboration intertwine, big things are bound to happen. It’s only a matter of time before the biotech industry experiences a transformation so profound that we all forget about our ex-lovers and focus solely on the wonders of science. Perhaps it’s a pipe dream, but hey, a reporter can wish, can’t they?

In the world of SPACs and business, it’s not uncommon to see companies joining forces for the greater good – or at least, for the greater profits. In this case, the union of Forbion European Acquisition Corp. and enGene is like a match made in biotech heaven. Their shared vision of improving people’s lives through breakthrough technology is as noble as it is lucrative, and we can’t wait to see the fruits of their labor.

As the biotechnology sector continues to evolve, it’s mergers like this one that remind us of the power of collaboration and innovation. With enGene’s expertise in non-viral gene therapy and Forbion’s deep pockets, this dynamic duo is poised to make a significant impact on the industry – and perhaps even change the course of human history. So, let the naysayers scoff, but don’t be surprised when the world of biotech looks nothing like it does now.

In conclusion, the merger of Forbion European Acquisition Corp. and enGene is a testament to what can be achieved when driven individuals see eye-to-eye and join forces in the name of progress. While the financial details might make your eyes glaze over, one can’t deny the potential that lies within the combination of cutting-edge technology and ambitious funding. Keep your eyes peeled, folks, because the biotech landscape as we know it could be on the verge of transformation.

Disclaimer

Applied Intuition Embarks on $71M Truckin’ Adventure: Layoffs & Cash Deals, Oh My!

TLDR:
Applied Intuition acquires Embark Trucks in an all-cash transaction of around $71 million, integrating Embark’s internal tools, data, and software resources to better serve customers in the trucking and automotive industries, while key surviving employees join Applied to ensure a smooth transition and support growth. Embark shareholders will receive $2.88 per share in cash, and after the transaction closes in Q3, Embark shares will cease trading on the Nasdaq.

Ah, the world of autonomous vehicle development – where cars drive themselves, and companies acquire those who can’t quite figure it out. In a recent display of technological Darwinism, Applied Intuition, the provider of simulation and software for autonomous vehicle development, has scooped up Embark Trucks in an all-cash transaction of around $71 million.

Now, Embark Trucks, a company dedicated to self-driving transportation, found itself in a bit of a pickle recently. They had to let go of a whopping 70% of their workforce and close two offices. But, in a stroke of genius, they left the remaining 30% of the staff with the Herculean task of keeping the company afloat. Applied Intuition, seeing an opportunity as clear as a freshly Windexed windshield, swooped in for the acquisition.

In an act of corporate symbiosis, Applied Intuition plans to integrate Embark’s internal tools, data, and software resources to better serve customers in the trucking and automotive industries. Key Embark employees – the ones who survived the workforce purge – will join Applied to ensure a smooth transition and support the growth of the product line. I guess the old saying is true: what doesn’t lay you off only makes you stronger.

As for Embark shareholders, they’ll receive a princely sum of $2.88 per share in cash. After the transaction closes in the third quarter, Embark shares will cease trading on the Nasdaq. A moment of silence for a once-promising autonomous trucking company that hit a few too many speed bumps along the way.

But let’s focus on the silver lining here, shall we? With the acquisition of Embark Trucks, Applied Intuition is ready to push the boundaries of autonomous vehicle development even further. The road ahead looks brighter and more autonomous than ever, as self-driving cars have the potential to revolutionize the way people and goods are transported around the world. A future where you can nap, read, or even write witty articles while commuting? Sign me up.

In all seriousness, Applied Intuition’s commitment to making the future of transportation autonomous is commendable. They’re not just in it for the thrill of the chase (or the acquisition); they’re genuinely dedicated to making self-driving cars a reality. And with Embark Trucks now under their wing, they’re one step closer to that goal.

So here’s to Applied Intuition and their exciting new chapter in the realm of self-driving car technology. May their journey be filled with innovation, progress, and hopefully fewer layoffs. After all, the future of transportation is at stake – and it’s a future that looks more like a well-oiled machine than a highway full of autonomous wrecks.

To sum it up, Applied Intuition’s acquisition of Embark Trucks is a tale of triumph and tragedy, a testament to the cutthroat world of autonomous vehicle development. But with Applied Intuition at the helm, steering the ship (or car, in this case) towards a future of self-driving technology, there’s hope that this investment will pay off in spades. So buckle up, folks – the ride is just getting started.

Disclaimer

Buffett Brushes Off Takeover Tango: Berkshire Happy Just Flirting with Occidental, Thanks!

TLDR:
Berkshire Hathaway surprises by not acquiring Occidental Petroleum despite holding a 23.6% stake, citing Occidental CEO Vicki Hollub’s impressive leadership and the conglomerate’s contentment playing the field between Occidental and Chevron. Berkshire Hathaway received permission to buy up to 50% of Occidental’s common stock but seems content with its current investment.

In a world where acquisitions are as common as finding a Starbucks on every corner, Berkshire Hathaway has surprised us all with its decision not to acquire Occidental Petroleum Corporation. It’s a shocking revelation, indeed, for those who were holding their breath in anticipation. But fear not, the excellent management of Occidental remains intact, and Berkshire Hathaway remains a happy stakeholder.

Warren Buffett, the oracle of Omaha himself, has dismissed any speculation surrounding a potential acquisition of Occidental after accumulating a 23.6% stake. Perhaps we can take a moment to appreciate the fact that, for once, a large conglomerate isn’t trying to swallow up another company. It’s refreshing, like a cool breeze on a hot summer day.

So why exactly is Berkshire Hathaway content with its current investment in Occidental? The answer lies in the impressive leadership of Occidental CEO Vicki Hollub. She’s been slashing debt and returning money to shareholders since the company acquired Anadarko Petroleum Corp in 2019. Buffett has praised her as an extraordinary manager, and we can only assume that he doesn’t offer such high praise lightly.

Occidental’s main competition, Chevron Corp, also has a significant presence in the Permian Basin, an area in Texas and New Mexico that produces a substantial amount of oil. Berkshire Hathaway owns a whopping $21.6 billion worth of Chevron stock, which is quite a chunk of change. It seems that Berkshire Hathaway is content playing the field between these two oil giants, rather than settling down with just one.

At one point, Berkshire Hathaway owned $10 billion of Occidental preferred stock with an 8% dividend, which helped fund the Anadarko purchase. The conglomerate also held warrants to buy another $5 billion of common shares at $59.62 each. However, Occidental recently redeemed about $474 million of the preferred stock at a premium, reducing dividend payouts. It seems that even Occidental is enjoying its independence, just a little.

In a surprising twist of events, Berkshire Hathaway received permission from the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission last August to buy up to 50% of Occidental’s common stock. This permission was required due to the fact that exercising the warrants would have exceeded the 25% ownership limit. It’s like watching a soap opera but with stocks and dividends instead of love triangles and dramatic confrontations.

Buffett, now 92 years old, has longed for another large acquisition for his Omaha-based conglomerate. Berkshire Hathaway, a titan in the world of conglomerates, boasts a diverse range of companies under its umbrella, including Geico car insurance and the BNSF railroad. But for now, it seems, the giant will remain content with its current investment in Occidental, and the world of business will continue to spin on its axis.

In conclusion, Berkshire Hathaway’s decision not to acquire Occidental Petroleum Corporation is a rare and refreshing change of pace in the world of business acquisitions. As we watch the drama unfold in the oil and energy sectors, we can take comfort in knowing that sometimes, just sometimes, big conglomerates like Berkshire Hathaway can resist the urge to gobble up another company. And that, dear readers, is a victory worth celebrating.

Disclaimer

View Inc. Dodges Investor Class Action, But Are They Truly in the Clear? The Saga Continues…

TLDR:
View Inc. is a company that went public in March 2021 and faced a planned class action lawsuit from investors, but has since been granted a stay of the proposed lawsuit. They are committed to research and development to conquer new markets and industries and aim to maintain customers’ trust through their actions. View is a leader in the smart glasses industry with patented technology and innovative products, poised for long-term growth and innovation.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the thrilling world of smart glasses and View Inc., a company that has experienced more ups and downs than a roller coaster at an amusement park. View Inc. went public in March 2021 by merging with a special purpose company, acquiring the oh-so-precious capital required to develop new products and continue poking at the boundaries of innovation. Yes, innovation, that magical word that can turn even the most mundane objects into objects of desire.

Of course, as with any company that ventures into the public domain, there’s bound to be some turbulence. And turbulence there was, as View faced a planned class action lawsuit from investors who were presumably not thrilled about an internal investigation that the company announced shortly after the merger. But fear not, for View takes these allegations as seriously as a cat takes its daily nap.

The company has maintained the highest standards of accountability and transparency, which is always reassuring when you’re dealing with things like financial reporting and internal controls. So, they’ve been vigorously defending these allegations with the help of their trusty legal team. And it seems that Lady Justice has taken a liking to View, as a California federal judge recently granted a stay of the proposed investor class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiffs, however, have been given the opportunity to rescind their claims, like a game show contestant who’s been given a second chance to answer that million-dollar question.

But let’s not dwell on the setbacks. Instead, let’s focus on the bright future of View and the still-developing field of smart glasses. View possesses patented technology and innovative products which, they believe, will give them a significant advantage in this burgeoning industry. With a commitment to research and development, View is also eyeing new markets and industries to conquer. After all, what’s the point of having world-changing technology if you can’t share it with everyone?

But, as with any ambitious endeavor, View cannot achieve all this on its own. It requires the support of its investors, customers, and partners. The company values the trust that its customers place in them, much like a toddler values the comfort of their favorite stuffed animal. And just like that toddler, View aims to earn and maintain that trust through its actions, one smart glass at a time.

In conclusion, View Inc. stands tall as a leader in the smart glasses industry, despite the legal hurdles it has had to jump over. With a focus on long-term growth and innovation, the potential for the smart glasses industry is as vast as the universe itself (or at least, as vast as our current understanding of it). So, investors, customers, and partners: grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride. The future is bright, and it’s looking even brighter through the lens of View’s smart glasses.

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

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.

Disclaimer

VinFast & the Furious: Revving up the EV Scene with a $27 Billion SPAC Merger!

TLDR:
VinFast is going public via a $27bn SPAC merger with Black Spade Acquisition Co, making it the third-largest SPAC merger in history. The company has built a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility with the capacity to produce 300,000 electric vehicles per year and plans to expand its market reach to Europe “soon” while also making waves in Vietnam and North America with its EV models.

Well, folks, it’s time to grab your popcorn and kick back while Vietnam’s very own electric vehicle (EV) prodigy, VinFast, struts its stuff on the public stage. That’s right, VinFast is going public via a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) merger with Black Spade Acquisition Co BSAQ, an impeccable move considering the company’s previous flirtations with a U.S. initial public offering. This marriage of convenience values VinFast at a jaw-dropping $27 billion, making it the third-largest SPAC merger in history. Quite the accomplishment for a company that started as a humble electric scooter manufacturer in 2017.

You may be wondering how VinFast managed to earn such a hefty price tag. Well, it seems the company’s been trying to impress, having built a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility with the capacity to churn out up to 300,000 electric vehicles per year. That’s a whole lot of EVs, folks. It’s no wonder that Black Spade Acquisition Co-CEO Dennis Tam gushed about VinFast’s “execution excellence” and their beautifully designed, high-quality EVs in just a few short years. Talk about a modern-day Cinderella story.

But VinFast isn’t content to rest on its laurels. With eyes set firmly on the future, the company plans to expand its market reach to Europe “soon” and continue making waves in Vietnam and North America. As the proud parent of four EV models already delivered to Vietnamese customers and its first North American delivery, the VF 8 model, VinFast is eager to show off its progeny to the world. The company’s commitment to going all-in on electric vehicles after halting internal combustion engine production in 2022 is truly a testament to its dedication to a brighter, greener future.

So, what does this mean for VinFast’s competitors like Tesla, you ask? Well, there’s a new kid on the block, and its name is the VF 8 electric SUV. This feisty newcomer is seen as a potential rival to Tesla’s Model Y, one of the bestselling vehicles globally. With a U.S. headquarters in Los Angeles and showrooms in California, VinFast is making itself cozy in Tesla’s backyard while also maintaining a foothold in the cutthroat Asian market. Tesla’s recent price cuts to gain market share may signal that the bigwigs are taking notice of this up-and-coming contender.

As we eagerly anticipate VinFast’s merger completion in the second half of 2023, it’s hard not to marvel at the company’s rapid growth and ambitious plans. A proposed manufacturing facility in North Carolina is set to break ground, further solidifying the company’s North American presence and aspirations. VinFast Auto Global CEO Madame Thuy Le cited the partnership with Black Spade and the U.S. listing as the “perfect capital raising avenue” for VinFast’s global ambitions. Like a proud parent, they’re preparing to watch their EV brainchild soar to new heights.

In conclusion, VinFast’s foray into the public arena seems to be garnering quite a bit of attention, and with good reason. This high-flying EV company is poised to become a major player in the industry, thanks to its impressive production capabilities and aggressive expansion plans. Tesla and other competitors should keep a weather eye on the horizon as VinFast revs its engines, ready to take on the world. As for us, the spectators, all that’s left to do is sit back, enjoy the show, and perhaps ponder the potential of a VinFast vehicle gracing our driveways in the not-too-distant future.

Disclaimer

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.

Disclaimer