BARCELONA – FC Barcelona is plotting a course to list its media division on the American stock exchange. The club has opted to set up the headquarters of this subsidiary in the Netherlands, following a similar move by Spanish company Ferrovial.
FC Barcelona aims to make its Wall Street debut with Barça Media via a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC), in collaboration with Mountain & Co. I Acquisition Corp, which is already listed on the Nasdaq. Furthermore, this alliance will grant the club access to the US capital markets. It will also facilitate the expansion of the digital reach of Barça Media and Barça Vision.
Why the Netherlands?
Locating the subsidiary in the Netherlands affords Barça Media greater strategic flexibility. Furthermore, it will enable them to take advantage of specific tax benefits. A satellite office in Barcelona will handle day-to-day operations. The decision has elicited a range of reactions, as Ferrovial has previously faced scrutiny for a comparable move.
The financial perspective
According to Cuatrecasas law firm, which has advised Mountain & Co. I Acquisition Corp on its agreement with FC Barcelona, the newly-formed business entity is projected to have a pro forma value of approximately €1 billion. This advances the aspiration of Joan Laporta, the president of FC Barcelona, to make the media divisions a significant revenue source for the club.
New shareholders and strategic Partners
With the introduction of German fund Libero Football Finance AG and another investor advised by Nipa Capital B.V., FC Barcelona bolsters its business structure. These new partners will take on a pivotal role in pinpointing business opportunities within the sports industry.
The Importance of sports performance
Notably, the success of this commercial venture is intricately tied to FC Barcelona’s on-field accomplishments. The club stresses that strong performances in La Liga and international competitions such as the UEFA Champions League will be vital for the stock’s success.
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