We've heard this song and dance before: VNU gets an offer to be bought but, for a number of reasons, the acquisition never comes to fruition. Today, VNU is expected to field a bid from a group of
seven private-equity firms to purchase the company for $8.6 billion. According to
The Wall Street Journal, the firms involved are AlpInvest Partners of the Netherlands; Permira Advisers Ltd.
of the United Kingdom; and the Blackstone Group; the Carlyle Group; Hellman & Friedman; Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.; and Thomas H. Lee Partners, all of the U.S. Many of VNU's shareholders believe
that the company is worth more money if it's sold off as three separate companies, so don't expect a fast decision here.
Read the whole story at WSJ (paid subscription required) »
