Proxy firms differ on Tiptree’s sale of Fortegra to DB Insurance

Core Viewpoint - The proposed sale of Fortegra by Tiptree Inc. to DB Insurance has led to divided opinions among proxy advisory firms, setting the stage for a contentious shareholder vote on December 3rd [1][5]. Group 1: Transaction Details - DB Insurance, South Korea's second-largest non-life insurer, plans to acquire 100% of Fortegra's outstanding shares for approximately $1.65 billion in cash [2]. - The transaction is subject to approval by Tiptree stockholders, regulatory clearance, and other customary closing conditions [2]. Group 2: Proxy Advisory Firms' Recommendations - Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS) has recommended that stockholders vote "FOR" the proposed deal, citing a competitive sales process and the exploration of alternative transaction structures [3][4]. - Conversely, Glass, Lewis & Co. and Egan-Jones Ratings Company have recommended that shareholders vote against the proposed sale, indicating concerns over the sales process and potential value destruction [5][6]. Group 3: Shareholder Perspectives - Tiptree's board unanimously recommends that stockholders vote "FOR" the merger proposal, emphasizing the importance of every vote [5]. - Veradace Partners L.P., holding 5.1% of Tiptree's outstanding common stock, argues that the sale process was flawed and rushed, suggesting that it was designed to benefit management rather than shareholders [6][8]. Group 4: Financial Implications - Concerns have been raised regarding a sharp post-announcement share price decline and potential tax leakage amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars [7]. - Tiptree management has not provided a clear plan for returning nearly $1 billion in transaction proceeds to shareholders, raising further doubts about the transaction's value [7].