George Raymond Zage Ill and James Fu Bin Lu Respond to Grindr Special Committee decision to Cease Engagement on Proposed Take-Private Transaction
Grindr Grindr (US:GRND) Prnewswire·2025-11-26 14:19

Core Viewpoint - The Proposing Shareholders, who own over 60% of Grindr Inc.'s outstanding shares, have withdrawn their non-binding proposal to take the company private at $18.00 per share due to the Special Committee's decision to cease engagement, primarily citing financing uncertainties [1][2][3]. Group 1: Proposal and Withdrawal - The Special Committee's decision to stop engagement with the Proposing Shareholders was based on uncertainties regarding the financing of the proposed acquisition [2]. - The Proposing Shareholders had received significant expressions of interest for acquisition financing, including letters of confidence and offers of senior debt, hybrid securities, and equity [2]. - Following the termination of engagement, the Proposing Shareholders have decided to withdraw their proposal and will instead focus on purchasing additional shares in the market [3]. Group 2: Future Plans and Recommendations - The Proposing Shareholders intend to recommend that Grindr's management and board increase the size of share repurchase plans and consider dividends to enhance shareholder returns [3]. - There is a commitment to engage with management on the growth of Grindr's initiatives, including telemedicine and potential future opportunities in various sectors such as travel, media, AI, and cryptocurrency [4]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Market Position - Grindr recently reported strong third-quarter financial results, which has led to confidence in the company's ability to create significant shareholder value [6]. - Investment banks have set price targets for Grindr that are significantly higher than the proposed acquisition price of $18.00 per share [6]. - The company has completed substantial share repurchases in 2025 at prices exceeding the proposed acquisition price, indicating a strong market position [6]. - Grindr's management prefers the company to remain public, and it currently has one of the lowest net debt to EBITDA ratios in its history, along with significant free cash flow growth [6].