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US: Mega talent agency IMG sold for reported $2.3B

By  |  December 19, 2013

Talent agency William Morris Endeavor, in partnership with its private equity backer Silver Lake, have reportedly emerged victorious in a bidding war for mega sports and media talent agency IMG Worldwide. The deal is estimated to be worth $2.3 billion.

Unnamed sources said the deal will likely earn regulatory clearance.

Reports say the acquisition will boost William Morris’ roster with IMG’s current talent, which includes tennis star Novak Djokivic and super model Gisele Bundchen.

William Morris won the buyout after a bidding war with IMC Partners Inc and private equity fund manager Carlyle Group. While some sources say the deal will easily win antitrust approval, another unnamed source said strategically, the move may be difficult as William Morris is established in Hollywood while IMG is more established in sports.

Full Content: Chicago Tribune

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