Merlin deal throws up possible prospects for S'pore-listed Straco

THERE was an interesting development over the past week which could have some bearing - and should attract some interest and attention - in Singapore.

A consortium of investors comprising investment fund Blackstone, Kirkbi (the investment company owned by the Danish billionaire owners of the Lego brand), and Canadian pension fund CPPIB have offered some £4.7 billion (S$8.01 billion) (or 12 times EBITDA), or close to £6 billion including £1.2 billion debt, for UK-listed Merlin Entertainments.

The deal, at 455p per share, would privatise the world's second largest operator of visitor attractions.