Rumors are running that suggest Vivendi (VIVENDI.PK) might be the target of a $50 billion takeover bid, which would result in the largest leveraged buyout offer in history.
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Company was rumored to have held talks with Vivendi, whose businesses include the Unverisal Music Group, Canal Plus (a French pay-TV company), video games and telecommunications providers in France, Morocco and elsewhere. The overgrown conglomerate has long been considered a ripe target for a takover or a break up.
The vast difference in business strands precludes it from being retained as a single group. Although in the past Vivendi has seemed to be against any sale or breakup of the company it is rumored that the company invited K.K.R. to make a friendly offer. Of course, this opens the door for other suitors to open dialogue.
The deal between Vivendi and K.K.R. could of ended after K.K.R. learned of tax penalities and media license requirements in France that could have made the deal difficult.
Read more about this offer and others seeking acquistions lately here.
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