Why Grindr's largest shareholders want to take the company private
Grindr Grindr (US:GRND) Fastcompany·2025-10-16 13:11

Core Insights - Grindr's largest shareholders are exploring the possibility of taking the company private again after its public debut via a SPAC merger in 2021 [2][3] - The shareholders, Raymond Zage and James Lu, are in talks with Fortress Investment Group to acquire Grindr at $15 per share, while the stock closed at $12.72 on October 15 [3][4] - Grindr's stock has experienced volatility, peaking at $24.73 in June before dropping 12% and facing a 3% decline since early September due to a short position revealed by Ningi Research [8] Financial Performance - Grindr reported a 27% year-over-year increase in revenue for Q2 in its latest earnings report [9] - The company is introducing AI-powered features for its highest-paying users and has launched a telehealth service for erectile dysfunction medications [9] Shareholder Dynamics - Zage and Lu collectively control over 60% of Grindr's shares, with Lu serving as board chair and Zage on the board, prompting the establishment of a committee of independent directors to evaluate any potential buyout offers [4]