Liberty Media to Split Off Live Nation Stake as Saudi Fund Exits Entertainment Giant

Liberty Media to Split Off Live Nation Stake as Saudi Fund Exits Entertainment Giant

By Marcus Hartley

November 18, 2024 at 03:26 AM

Liberty Media is spinning off its live entertainment group, which includes a significant 69.6 million shares in Live Nation and a majority stake in QuintEvents. The announcement comes as Live Nation's stock reaches a new 52-week high of $130.76 per share.

Live Nation concert stage

Live Nation concert stage

The newly formed Liberty Live will be listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market or OTC Markets, with the spinoff expected to complete in the second half of 2025, subject to shareholder approval. Liberty Media will retain control of Formula 1 and MotoGP after the split.

Greg Maffei, Liberty Media's outgoing CEO, stated that the spinoff will simplify the company's capital structure, potentially reduce the discount to net asset value of Liberty Live stock, and enhance trading liquidity for both entities.

In related news, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has completely sold its Live Nation stake, which it acquired for $500 million in early 2020 during the pandemic-induced market downturn. Select Equity Group has emerged as a significant shareholder, now holding approximately 5.4% of Live Nation's shares.

QuintEvents, acquired by Liberty Media in early 2024, will transfer from the Formula One Group to Liberty Live Group in exchange for certain private assets. The company specializes in fan experiences and corporate client entertainment, with strong ties to both Formula 1 and Live Nation's hospitality operations.

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