 "Blackstone in Pursuit: .5 Billion AirTrunk Acquisition on the Horizon")
Blackstone Inc. is close to finalizing a significant deal to acquire Australian data center operator AirTrunk for over A$20 billion (approximately $13.5 billion), including debt. This transaction could be one of the largest in digital infrastructure this year. Blackstone has outbid other competitors, including a consortium with well-known investors, and is currently negotiating final terms with AirTrunk’s current owners, Macquarie Group Ltd. and PSP Investments. The discussions involve a substantial loan and funding packages to support the acquisition. AirTrunk operates data centers across multiple countries, and this move is part of the growing interest in the Asian cloud-services Market.
Blackstone Inc. is in talks to acquire AirTrunk, an Australian data center operator, for over A$20 billion (approximately $13.5 billion) including debt. This potential deal is being closely monitored as it could become one of the largest transactions in the digital infrastructure sector this year. Multiple sources indicate that Blackstone has outbid competitors and is now the preferred buyer for AirTrunk, which is owned by Macquarie Group Ltd. and PSP Investments.
Negotiations are at an advanced stage, with both parties expected to finalize a deal soon. Although the transaction hasn’t been signed yet, the discussions are progressing rapidly, highlighting the growing interest in digital infrastructure amidst rising demand in the Asian cloud services Market. Reports suggest that Blackstone is also coordinating with banks to secure a loan to help finance this hefty purchase.
AirTrunk, which operates data centers in Australia and several Asian markets, was previously valued at around A$3 billion when it was taken over by Macquarie’s infrastructure team in 2020. With a robust portfolio and a strategic position in the Market, this acquisition could significantly enhance Blackstone’s footprint in the digital infrastructure space.
For investors and Market experts alike, the outcome of this deal will be worth watching as it underscores the increasing competition in the data center sector and the expansion of digital services across Asia.
Picture Credit: Bloomberg
Last Updated: Sep 02, 2024 | 11:21 PM IST
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What is Blackstone planning to do with AirTrunk?
Blackstone wants to buy AirTrunk, a company that provides data centers in Australia, to expand its investments in technology and data services. -
How much is the deal worth?
The deal is worth approximately $13.5 billion. -
Why is Blackstone interested in AirTrunk?
Blackstone is interested in AirTrunk because data centers are becoming more important as companies need more storage for their digital information. -
When is the deal expected to be completed?
The deal’s completion may take several months as it needs to go through regulatory approvals and other processes. - What impact will this deal have on AirTrunk?
The deal could help AirTrunk grow and improve its services, thanks to Blackstone’s resources and experience in the industry.
