WildBrain to Sell Its 41% Stake in Peanuts to Sony for $630 Million

Core Viewpoint - WildBrain Ltd. has signed an agreement to sell its 41% stake in Peanuts Holdings LLC to Sony for $630 million, which will eliminate the company's debt and provide capital for reinvestment in high-growth opportunities [1][4][12] Financial Impact - The net proceeds from the sale will fully repay WildBrain's Senior Secured Credit Facility, resulting in over $40 million cash surplus and annual interest savings of approximately $50 million [2][4][12] - WildBrain's EBITDA attributable to its 41% ownership in Peanuts was $27 million in Fiscal 2025, with recognized EBITDA including consolidation benefits at $43 million [7] Strategic Focus - The transaction allows WildBrain to reinvest in wholly owned franchises like Strawberry Shortcake and Teletubbies, expand its premium digital content network, and invest in emerging technologies [4][5][9] - WildBrain aims to create efficiencies and simplify its business model, having closed its broadcast television channels in Canada to enhance strategic flexibility [10][11] Partnership and Future Growth - WildBrain will remain a multi-year partner to Peanuts for key services, including licensing, production, and distribution, ensuring continued collaboration with Sony [2][4] - The company plans to invest approximately $50 to $100 million in growth opportunities to enhance its strategic platform and drive shareholder value [8][12] Historical Context - WildBrain acquired 80% of Peanuts in 2017 for $448 million and has since generated over $1 billion in total sale proceeds and distributions from its ownership [6]