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Satellite operator Maxar to go private in $6.4B deal with Advent
Dec 19, 2022
Illustration: Annelise Capossela/Axios
Boston-based private equity firm Advent International's deal to buy Maxar Technologies is its latest investment in defense and cybersecurity businesses.
Why it matters: Private equity money has been funneling into health care, retail and tech. This deal to take a publicly traded, defense-focused telecom business private stands out.
Details: Advent said Friday it has agreed to acquire Maxar at $53 per share in cash, a 129% premium on Thursday's closing stock price. The deal is valued at $6.4 billion, including debt.
- The Westminster, Colorado-based telecom's stock jumped about 125% Friday to $52, just below the deal price.
- Advent noted in the press release that it's invested about $28 billion in defense, security and cybersecurity over the past three years.
- The firm's other deals include taking McAfee private this year, as well as investments in passwordless authenticator HYPR and cloud security startup Wiz.
What's next: The Maxar deal includes a "go-shop" period until Feb. 14, 2023. If no other bidders arise and regulatory approvals are met, the deal is expected to close mid-2023.
