CD&R and Permira Close to Buyout Proposal for France's Exclusive Networks

Investor Group in Advanced Talks to Privatize Exclusive Networks

An investor consortium backed by Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) and Permira is nearing an agreement to take French cybersecurity firm Exclusive Networks SA private. According to sources familiar with the matter, the private equity group has secured the necessary financing to buy out the minority shareholders of Exclusive Networks.

The deal could be finalized within the coming days, as per individuals who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions. The shares of Exclusive Networks have experienced a 12% appreciation in Paris trading this year, giving the company a market valuation of approximately €2 billion ($2.2 billion). Bloomberg's data indicates that Permira is the largest shareholder in the company.

However, the deliberations are still ongoing and the timeline for the agreement may be subject to change. Representatives from CD&R and Permira have abstained from commenting on the situation, and a spokesperson for Exclusive Networks was unavailable for remarks outside regular business hours.

The negotiations over the acquisition of Exclusive Networks are occurring in the wake of France's recent election, which culminated in a coalition of left-wing parties gaining the most seats in the National Assembly, yet without securing an outright majority. This political outcome could pose an additional challenge for deals in France, potentially making investors wary about engaging in transactions amid political uncertainties.