Acquisition of The Active Network, Inc. by Vista Equity Partners May Not Be in the Best Interests of The Active Network Shareholders
Robbins LLP is investigating the acquisition of The Active Network, Inc. (NYSE: ACTV) by Vista Equity Partners, a private equity firm. On September 30, 2013, ACTIVE announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement under which Vista Equity will commence a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of ACTIVE’s common stock for $14.50 per share in cash. The ACTIVE board of directors has unanimously approved the merger agreement. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2013.
Is the Merger Best for ACTIVE and Its Shareholders?
Robbins LLP’s investigation focuses on whether the board of directors at ACTIVE is undertaking a fair process to obtain maximum value and adequately compensate ACTIVE’s shareholders in the merger. As an initial matter, the $14.50 consideration represents a premium of only 27.19% based on the ACTIVE’s closing price on September 27, 2013. That premium is significantly below the median one-day premium of over 38% for comparable transactions in the last three years.
Moreover, ACTIVE is currently experiencing success and growth in its business prospects. On August 1, 2013, ACTIVE issued a press release announcing the company’s financial results for its second quarter of 2013, reporting record revenue and strong Adjusted Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (“EBITDA”). Specifically, ACTIVE reported record net revenue of $132.4 million for the quarter, an increase of 9% compared to the same quarter in 2012. Further, ACTIVE reported Adjusted EBITDA of $23.7 million, an increase of 18%, compared to the same quarter in 2012. In announcing these results, Jon Belmonte, ACTIVE’s Interim CEO, stated, “I am pleased with our strong second quarter results – with revenues at the top end of our outlook range and Adjusted EBITDA exceeding the high end of our guidance… During the quarter, we commenced on a number of prioritization efforts designed to strengthen our financial performance and extend our market leadership position.”
Given these facts, Robbins is examining ACTIVE’s board of directors’ decision to sell the company to Vista Equity Partners now rather than allow shareholders to continue to participate in the company’s continued success and future growth prospects, and whether they are seeking to benefit themselves.
ACTIVE shareholders have the option to file a class action lawsuit to secure the best possible price for shareholders and the disclosure of material information so shareholders can decide whether to tender their shares in an informed manner.
ACTIVE shareholders who would like more information about their rights and potential remedies can complete the form below and we will contact you directly. You can also contact attorney Darnell R. Donahue at (800) 350-6003.