According to Il Sole 24Ore, the Prada group is close to acquiring Versace, with a transaction expected to close by the end of March. Exclusive discussions with Capri Holdings, the brand's owner since 2018, are currently underway, supported by leading consultants and law firms. The agreement would be specified at a valuation of approximately 1.5 billion euros, which is less than the 1.83 billion that Capri Holdings paid seven years ago. One of the important aspects of the negotiations is the funding of the project, which could involve a consortium of American and Italian banks, including Intesa Sanpaolo and BNP Paribas-BNL. Despite the official silence of Prada and its CEO Andrea Guerra, the markets have already been influenced by rumors about the transaction. Capri Holdings shares increased by 9.6% in the Wall Street pre-market, while Prada shares closed up 3.47% in Hong Kong. The acquisition would be a strategic turning point for the Prada group, which has previously prioritized the organic development of its brands. If the operation is completed, it will be necessary to relaunch the Versace brand, which has experienced a decrease in sales and margins in recent quarters. Analysts emphasize the necessity of fortifying its position in the luxury sector, as well as enhancing key segments like leather products and operational management.
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