VinFast and Furious: Vietnamese Automaker Revs Up for SPAC-tacular $27B Public Debut

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.

Disclaimer

Buffet’s Banking Bummer: “So Messed Up” Incentives Make Berkshire Cautious, Local Banks Still A-OK

TLDR:
Berkshire Hathaway is cautious about the banking sector and has sold bank shares in the past six months. They still own Bank of America but are wary of the system and banking regulations. First Republic’s heavy losses in government-guaranteed debt have highlighted the risks of unguaranteed home loans in the banking industry.

Ladies and gentlemen, today we bring you some banking news that really tickles my funny bone. As you may know, Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, mentioned that Berkshire Hathaway is cautious about its banking sector. But why, you might ask? Well, let me explain. Buffett said the news flow surrounding federally insured deposits is scant. The public remained confused about what would happen if a bank failed, and the media, bless their hearts, was of little help. I’ve even seen bank failures. Some may think that the bank is in trouble, that the system is not working. But we are confident in our banking sector. The US government and US people don’t care that banks fail, and people actually lose their deposits. There was a demonstration project at Silicon Valley Bank over the weekend, but the public is still confused.

As of the end of 2022, 89% of SVB’s $175 billion deposits were uninsured, while the US banking system, in its infinite wisdom, protected depositors with a “systemic risk exemption.” This exemption applied even to depositors with accounts greater than $250,000. As you know, Berkshire has about $128 billion in cash and Treasury bills. If the banking system somehow temporarily malfunctions, we want to be there. Buffett said one reason we’re cautious is that the bank regulatory stimulus is “messed up.” First Republic Bank, the last US community bank to fail, announced in its annual report that it is offering jumbo-sized unguaranteed home loans at fixed interest rates. Referring to his father’s loss of his job in a bank run in 1931, Buffett said, “That’s what the First Republic did, it’s blatant, and the world ignored it until it exploded. “Bank regulation incentives are so messed up, and so many people are interested in screwing them up.” That’s why we’re very cautious about ownership in situations like this.”

Don’t get me wrong, we’re not completely out of the banking sector yet. We still own Bank of America, and Buffett is happy with that, he said. However, it has sold bank shares in the last six months after selling some when the pandemic hit. Buffett sits behind a sign that says “Available for Sale” to comment, while his longtime business partner Charlie Munger sits behind a “Hold to maturity” sign to warn the bank that the regional banking crisis is on its way. Seized by regulators and sold to JP Morgan, First Republic suffered heavy losses in its held-to-maturity investment portfolio, primarily government-guaranteed debt.

I know some people are worried about their money at their local bank. But Buffett isn’t personally concerned about local banks. “I have my own money. It’s probably over the FDIC limit. I keep it in my local bank, but I’m not at all concerned.” Berkshire Hathaway is cautious in its banking sector, but we are still there, and I’m sure the system will work for many years. Thank you for your attention. We look forward to bringing you more news in the future.

It was quite an emotional roller coaster. First, we hear that Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway are wary of the banking sector. Then I heard they were still stuck with Bank of America and didn’t personally care about their money at their local bank. The fact is that the message around deposits has been bad and has caused panic among depositors and three mid-sized banks since March. I don’t know about you, but I suddenly had the urge to hide all my money under my mattress. Just kidding, I stick to trusted banks. Or do I? More and more banks seem to be taking risks with unguaranteed home loans and fixed interest rates. Is this a ticking time bomb waiting to explode in the face of the banking industry? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure, Warren Buffett’s dry wit and blunt honesty will keep us entertained and informed.

Disclaimer

Ashington Innovation: Slow and Steady Wins the Fintech Race, Not-so-Rushin’ to Russian Acquisitions

TLDR:
Ashington Innovation PLC is preparing for their shares to begin trading on the London Stock Exchange on June 6th, with 24 months to find the ideal acquisition in the fintech and deeptech industries. They seek a company with significant growth potential and a favorable valuation.

Well, folks, it seems Ashington Innovation PLC is gearing up to make a splash in the fintech and deeptech industries, as they prepare for their shares to begin trading on the London Stock Exchange on June 6th. But hold your horses, they won’t be making hasty decisions. With a leisurely 24 months to find their ideal acquisition, Ashington Innovation appears to be embracing the wisdom of a finely aged wine, rather than gulping down shots at last call.

Having raised a charming $1.1 million through the sale of 26.98 million new shares, the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) has set its sights on finding the perfect partner in the ever-growing fintech and deeptech playground that is London. You see, London has attracted around $17.3 billion in fintech investments since 2020, and Ashington’s director, Chris Disspain, is confident that there’s still plenty of room for growth in this thriving sector.

And while some might question their leisurely approach to acquisitions, Mr. Disspain assures us that they’re all about quality, not just a quick dance at the M&A ball. He stated that he’d rather spend most of their 24-month window finding the right target, instead of rushing into a hasty and potentially regrettable partnership. Because who wants to wake up next to an ill-suited match, when you can take your time and find your industry soulmate?

Now, Ashington Innovation isn’t just looking for any old company to cozy up with; they’re seeking a company with significant growth potential and an appealing management team. They believe that their access to the London Stock Exchange’s deep capital markets will be particularly enticing for potential targets, making them quite the eligible suitor in the fintech and deeptech dating pool.

London’s reputation as Europe’s most attractive destination for fintech and deeptech is undeniably a significant factor in Ashington Innovation’s confidence. Both industries are experiencing increasing investment, making it the perfect time for Ashington to swoop in and find a company with high potential growth at a favorable valuation. After all, who doesn’t love a good bargain, especially when it comes with the promise of substantial returns?

So, as we eagerly await Ashington Innovation’s debut on the London Stock Exchange, one can’t help but wonder what exciting and innovative solutions they will bring to the fintech and deeptech industries. With their measured approach and commitment to finding the perfect match, it seems the possibilities are as vast as the capital markets they seek to tap into.

In summary, while Ashington Innovation may be taking a leisurely stroll through the fintech and deeptech landscape, their dedication to finding the right acquisition target promises an exciting future for the company and its investors. As they embark on this 24-month journey, we’ll be keeping a close eye on their progress and any intriguing news they may have to share. So, buckle up, dear readers, and let’s see what delightful surprises Ashington Innovation has in store for us.

Disclaimer

DWAC’s SPAC-tacular Adventure: Trump’s Social Media Comeback & the Road to 2024

TLDR:
DWAC stock is expected to rise due to its merger with TMTG, which will bring Truth Social to the public market, promising a platform for free expression. Traders should watch for bullish and bearish signals to predict future direction.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to a thrilling tale of stock market shenanigans: Digital World Acquisition Corp (DWAC). This week, DWAC took quite the rollercoaster ride, soaring nearly 8% before taking a wee 3% dip on Friday. What makes this special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) so interesting, you ask? Well, it’s set to bring former President Donald Trump’s Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) to the public market.

Now, why would anyone care about Trump’s latest venture? The answer is simple. It revolves around the much-anticipated social media platform, Truth Social. Promoted as the antidote to Facebook and Twitter’s censorship, Truth Social promises a safe haven for free expression. Millions of people are itching for a platform where they can vent their unfiltered opinions, and Trump’s brainchild might just be it.

But there’s more to this story. Our former Commander-in-Chief is considering another run for the presidency in 2024. Like a moth to a flame, Truth Social could be the catalyst for his campaign, reaching out to voters and amplifying his message. And let’s not forget the scandals, lawsuits, and criminal cases that follow Trump like a lost puppy. Curious to hear his thoughts on these matters? Truth Social is the place to be.

So, what does this all mean for DWAC? Once the SPAC and TMTG merge, Truth Social will effectively become a public company. Traders are already predicting an influx of interest in the platform as the 2024 election approaches. But it’s not just elections that spark interest in Truth Social. People are craving an uncensored platform, and Trump’s creation seems to be the answer to their prayers.

Now, let’s talk about DWAC’s stock. As I mentioned earlier, it fell slightly on Friday. Fear not, my friends. This is a mere healthy consolidation. Interest in the stock has recently been on the rise, and Friday’s drop was driven by below-average trading volumes. In other words, traders are not bearish on the stocks; they’re just biding their time.

To predict future direction, traders should watch for above-average volumes to see if the stock breaks up or down from Thursday’s key price. A breakout from the pattern could indicate a trend reversal and a new uptrend forming. On the other hand, a significant drop in volume and a break below $12.60 might suggest that the recent rally is a bullish trap, and the downtrend will continue.

In conclusion, keep a close eye on DWAC. Its impending union with Truth Social has got investors all aflutter, and rightly so. People want a platform that allows them to express their opinions freely, and Truth Social promises just that. Plus, with Trump possibly running for president again in 2024, the platform is sure to play a pivotal role in his campaign.

However, remember to trade wisely and pay attention to bullish and bearish signals. The stock market is a fickle friend, and DWAC’s story is no exception. Great things may be on the horizon for this SPAC, but only time will reveal what the future holds. Until then, hold onto your hats and watch this space, as the trading games commence.

Disclaimer

SPAC Attack: Law Firm Sniffs Out Potential Violations, Puts BigBear.ai & Friends on Notice

TLDR:
Johnson Fistel is investigating potential securities law violations by SPACs BigBear.ai Holdings, Tango Therapeutics, Senti Biosciences, and Gemini Therapeutics, and inviting investors who may have suffered losses to join forces with them in seeking compensation. The law firm is committed to protecting the rights of shareholders and investors and providing them with the resources they need to make informed decisions in the event of misconduct.

In an era where financial security seems as elusive as a politician’s promise, the valiant team at Johnson Fistel has donned their legal armor to protect the interests of investors and shareholders. They’ve commenced an investigation into potential violations of federal securities laws by several special purpose entities (“SPACs”). Their targets? BigBear.ai Holdings, Tango Therapeutics, Senti Biosciences, and Gemini Therapeutics.

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s a SPAC?” Think of it as a corporate shell game – an empty vessel of a company whose sole purpose is to raise funds, merge with a sexy, more established business, and ultimately make its investors some dough. It’s a high-stakes game that, when played by the rules, can lead to some serious financial windfalls. But in this topsy-turvy world of ours, nothing is ever quite what it appears.

Apparently, there’s a sneaking suspicion that these aforementioned SPACs have been dabbling in the dark arts of securities violations. Tragic, I know. But fear not, for the heroic folks at Johnson Fistel are on the case. They’re inviting investors who may have suffered losses related to these SPACs to join forces with them in their noble quest for justice.

Johnson Fistel’s investigation, though time-consuming and complex, is driven by their unwavering commitment to the rights of their shareholders and investors. They’re going full Sherlock Holmes on this one, sparing no effort in seeking redress for any losses suffered due to possible securities law breaches. Who says chivalry is dead?

So, if you’ve had the misfortune of investing in any of these SPACs and find yourself nursing some financial battle scars, worry not. Johnson Fistel is extending a hand to help you up from the battlefield. Simply contact Jim Baker, their top litigation expert, who is ready and willing to answer your questions and guide you on your path to potential compensation. After all, it’s a dangerous world out there for investors, and it’s reassuring to know that someone’s got your back.

As a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York, and Georgia, Johnson Fistel is a force to be reckoned with. With years of experience in complex securities disputes, their dedicated attorneys are like the Avengers of the investment world (minus the spandex, of course). Their ultimate goal? To provide investors and shareholders with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions and to protect their rights in the event of misconduct.

In conclusion, if you are an investor or shareholder who may have suffered losses in connection with the BigBear.ai Holdings, Tango Therapeutics, Senti Biosciences, and Gemini Therapeutics SPACs, Johnson Fistel is your ally. They are committed to fighting for your rights and seeking relief for damages you may have suffered from violations of federal securities laws. So, strap on your armor and join them in their crusade for justice. Together, you shall prevail.

Disclaimer

SPAC Fat Projects and Avanseus: A Merged-in-Heaven Romcom Stuck on the “Merging Soon” Cliffhanger

TLDR:
Phat Projects and Avanseus merger deadline extended to June 15. Phat Projects received a notice of noncompliance from Nasdaq, but vows to resolve the issue and remain on the prestigious exchange.

Hold onto your hats, folks, because the thrilling saga of Phat Projects Acquisition Corp. continues with yet another deadline extension for their highly anticipated merger with Avanseus. The suspense is palpable, as the merger deadline shifts from May 15 to June 15, which is, coincidentally, just enough time to binge-watch your favorite series and still have time to spare.

In case you’ve been living under a rock, this SPAC (Special Purpose Acquisition Company) has been a staple of the business pages since it announced its merger plans in August last year. For those who are fans of plot twists, the deadline has been extended several times. Talk about a rollercoaster ride, right? Meanwhile, Singapore-based Avanseus must be itching to release its AI-based software solutions into the wild.

Our protagonist, Fat Projects, has had its fair share of ups and downs since going public in October 2021, raising a cool $100 million (which we can all agree is a rather impressive number). It’s like a beautiful, shiny beacon of hope in the otherwise drab world of finance, tirelessly pursuing innovative opportunities in the technology space. However, one cannot ignore the minor hiccups that have arisen along the way.

Earlier this month, Fat Projects received a little love letter from Nasdaq, notifying them that they were out of compliance with certain listing requirements. But fear not, dear reader, for this is merely a bump in the road. The company has vowed to do everything in its power to resolve these pesky issues and remain on the prestigious Nasdaq’s good side.

Despite these setbacks, the Fat Projects-Avanseus merger remains at the top of their priority list. It’s important to stay focused on the big picture, after all. And what a picture it is, with the promise of a powerful partnership that will bring immense value to both companies and place them at the forefront of the AI-based software solutions industry.

In an act of unwavering commitment, Fat Projects has assured its followers that the outstanding issues will be tackled swiftly and efficiently. After all, as we’ve learned from decades of watching sports movies, it’s not about the setbacks – it’s about the triumphant comeback.

So, dear readers, let us not despair at the extension of this merger deadline. Instead, let us rejoice in the knowledge that Fat Projects and Avanseus are working tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for their union. And when that glorious day finally arrives, the tech industry will surely tremble at the combined force of these two titans.

In the meantime, let us all sit back, relax, and enjoy the anticipation. Because as the old saying goes: good things come to those who wait. And in the case of the Fat Projects-Avanceus merger, the best is yet to come.

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

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.

Disclaimer

Indi EV Plans to Game-Change (Literally) with Car-to-Car Gaming & TikTok-ing Crossovers

TLDR:
Indi EV, a Los Angeles-based electric vehicle company, is going public through a reverse merger with a special purpose acquisition company, with an optimistic $600 million valuation. Their first electric vehicle, the Indi One, will feature ambitious interior designs, in-car gaming, and content creation capabilities.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round for the latest and greatest innovation in electric vehicles: the Indi EV. Born with Los Angeles roots and now proudly residing in a shiny new headquarters in Costa Mesa, the company is prepping to go public via a reverse merger with Malacca Straits Acquisition Company Ltd. (Nasdaq: MLAC), a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). Sporting an optimistic valuation of $600 million, it should be quite the spectacle, especially considering they have yet to generate any revenue or introduce their first EV, the Indi One crossover.

Now, let’s talk about the Indi One’s ambitious interior. It’s like…oops, sorry, can’t do that. The Indi One will feature 5G internet, autonomous driving assistance systems, and, most importantly according to the company, a “Vehicle Integrated Computer” that enables in-car and car-to-car gaming. In an attempt to make the line between living rooms and vehicles blurrier than a Monet painting, they’ll also allow passengers to surf the web, video chat, edit documents, and watch YouTube and TikTok. Content creators and influencers can rejoice, as they can shoot, edit, and post using the onboard computer and five in-cabin cameras.

The Indi One will be available in two trims: Basic, with about 230 miles of range and costing around $45,000, and Premium, boasting about 300 miles of range and a price tag of approximately $69,000. The company has yet to sell an electric vehicle, but they expect to start generating revenue next year as commercial production begins. It’s an ambitious goal considering their current accumulated deficit tops $116 million, but who knows? Maybe they’ll be the Cinderella story of the electric vehicle world.

Unfortunately, other local electric car makers, such as Irvine-based Rivian Automotive (Nasdaq: RIVN) and Mullen Automotive (Nasdaq: MULN), haven’t fared well in the public market this year. Last week, Rivian, with a $13 billion valuation, saw its shares fall 65% from its 52-week high last September, and Mullen’s stock has fallen about 44% since May 4. It looks like the SPAC route might not be the yellow brick road to success some companies hoped for.

As Indi EV racked up debt, the electric car maker had to downsize from their 200,000-square-foot office in Los Angeles to a 35,000-square-foot office in Orange County. The new facility will allow Indi to “centralize resources to bring its first model, the Indi One, closer to production,” the company said in a statement.

In another twist of fate, Indi EV announced a $120 million deal with Hito Robotic System to develop automated manufacturing processes for the automotive, steel, semiconductor, and biomedical industries. Hito’s equipment will help Indi build its automated assembly line and gear up for production for the Indi One in 2024. The company is also working on designs for two upcoming vehicles: the Indi Space luxury van and the Indi Two pickup truck.

So, there you have it. The Indi EV is trying to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with ambitious interiors, in-car gaming, and content creation capabilities. It remains to be seen whether their daring approach will pay off in a market already packed with electric car makers, but one thing’s for sure: they’re not lacking in ambition and creativity. Keep your eyes peeled, folks – this could be quite the ride.

Disclaimer

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