Core Viewpoint - Octopus Energy is spinning off its software arm, Kraken, in a significant deal that is expected to enhance its status as one of Britain's most valuable technology companies [1][2]. Group 1: Spin-off Details - The spin-off will fully separate Kraken from Octopus Energy, with plans to sell a minority stake, facilitated by Goldman Sachs [1][2]. - Kraken could be valued at up to $10 billion (£7.3 billion), which will provide additional cash to fuel Octopus's international growth [2]. - The newly independent Kraken will be headquartered in London and New York, suggesting a potential future US stock market listing [3]. Group 2: Strategic Rationale - The separation is intended to give Kraken the freedom to collaborate with other utilities, which has been limited due to Octopus's competitive position in various markets [4]. - Octopus has faced challenges in licensing Kraken to other energy companies, as its success has made incumbents wary [3][4]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Kraken currently generates annual sales exceeding $500 million (£376 million) [5]. - Existing investors, including the founder and employees, are expected to receive shares in the newly independent Kraken [5]. Group 4: Company Background - Octopus Energy was established in 2015 as a challenger to the dominant "Big Six" energy suppliers, focusing on green energy, customer service, and technology [6]. - The company has rapidly grown to become the largest energy supplier in the UK, surpassing British Gas in January 2023, with over seven million customers [6]. Group 5: Kraken's Functionality - Kraken is described as the "secret sauce" of Octopus, initially designed as a cloud operating system for managing consumer account data [7]. - Over time, Kraken has evolved to include features such as billing for "smart" energy tariffs and integrating various components of the energy system, including solar farms and electric vehicles [7].