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Opalesque Industry Update - ConvergEx Holdings, LLC, (“ConvergEx”) announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its software platform business, consisting primarily of Eze Castle Software LLC and RealTick LLC, to an affiliate of TPG Capital. After the close of the transaction, Eze Castle Software and RealTick will operate under the name Eze Software Group and ConvergEx will continue to focus on and expand its remaining global execution, institutional brokerage and trading related businesses. “This transaction represents the beginning of a new chapter in ConvergEx’s history,” commented ConvergEx Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Joseph M. Velli. “From the time that our company was formed, it has always been our strategy to grow and realize the value in our businesses. In the past year, we were approached by numerous parties and we carefully considered the option to divest these businesses. We moved forward with this transaction because it provides a great opportunity to create two optimal businesses, ConvergEx and Eze Software Group, which can each focus on their unique strengths and serve clients’ needs. This transaction will also allow ConvergEx to allocate resources to increase our position as a leader in technology-based global execution and trading products and services while also strengthening our financial position.” ConvergEx and Eze Software Group will maintain a close relationship after the close of the transaction. The parties have established a cooperative marketing agreement that will ensure that each firm’s services will continue to be offered on an integrated basis. Each firm will also cross-sell the other company’s services. Both GTCR and BNY Mellon, founding shareholders of ConvergEx, remain committed to the long-term success of ConvergEx and will maintain their significant investments in the company. “ConvergEx has experienced tremendous growth since GTCR first invested in the company in 2006 and we are confident in the future of the business,” said Collin Roche, principal of GTCR. Dean Mihas, GTCR principal, added, “The strength of ConvergEx’s team and service offerings positions the company well for the future.” After the transaction is complete, ConvergEx’s corporate management team as well as senior management of its execution businesses will remain in place. Mr. Gavin will lead Eze Software Group along with the existing management teams from Eze Castle Software and RealTick. Following the close of the transaction, Eze Software Group will also complete its acquisition of Tradar, a supplier of portfolio management and accounting solutions. “Working as one organization, our businesses enjoyed great success through innovation and collaboration. As ConvergEx and Eze Software Group embark on the next phase in their respective growth plans, we look forward to continuing our relationship in a way that is even more beneficial to ConvergEx, Eze Software Group, Tradar and all of our clients,” said Tom Gavin, chief executive officer of Eze Castle Software. Goldman, Sachs & Co., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, and Citigroup acted as financial advisors to ConvergEx. Kirkland & Ellis served as legal counsel. The deal is expected to close in the first or second quarter of 2013. Financial terms were not disclosed. Press release bc |
Industry Updates
Eze Castle Software and RealTick sold by ConvergEx to TPG
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
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