Clarksons Seals Platou Deal

London-based shipbroker Clarkson PLC has confirmed a GBP 281.2 million (USD 441m) offering for the entire issued share capital of the Norwegian RS Platou ASA.

Earlier this month Clarksons announced its interest in the Oslo-based  ship- and offshore broking company, but said that whilst discussions regarding the combination of these two businesses continue, “there can be no certainty that any transaction will occur.”

Clarksons says that at the moment, Platou shareholders who together hold more than 75 per cent of the company’s share capital have agreed to the terms of the proposed acquisition. Clarksons intends to approach the remaining shareholders of Platou with details of the proposed acquisition, and if sufficient number of shareholders agree to enable the U.K. shipbroker to acquire at least 90 per cent of the share capital, Clarksons will buy those shares. Whilst these discussions continue, there can be no certainty that the transaction will complete, says Clarksons.

According to Clarksons,  the combination of the groups would create a leading global shipping and offshore services business headquartered in London and employing approximately 1,400 people in 21 countries in key global financial and shipping centres.

Andi Case, Clarkson PLC’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am delighted to announce the proposed acquisition of RS Platou ASA. The combination of these two market leading heritage brands will position the enlarged group as the world’s leading shipping and offshore broker and specialist investment bank. Strategically the combination of Clarksons and RS Platou ASA is compelling as they are highly complementary with little overlap and combine two teams with similar cultures, experience and vision. The enhanced global platform will enable us to further deliver improved integrated services to existing as well as new clients whilst also providing our staff additional opportunities.”

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