Reports have surfaced that Forest City Realty Trust Inc. is again in takeover talks with Canada’s Brookfield Asset Management Inc.
Bloomberg, in its widely cited report, says the potential price is in the $25-$25.50 per share range. After the news surfaced, Forest City’s shares rose to just under $23 a share late last week.
Reuters’ is reporting that Forest City, following a September strategic review, determined it would not sell itself. It did, however, reach out to more than 50 potential acquirers and entered into exclusive talks with a large financial institution, but the talks broke down over price and closing conditions.
It’s reported that, following the review, the company also agreed with three activist investors to have nine directors resign and will replace them with independent nominees. Rumors of these talks have been circulating since at least February when it was reported that Forest City was considering strategic alternatives to increase shareholder value, including a potential sale or merger. The company has also been in the news recently as it sheds malls as part of a strategic divestiture plan, which is nearing its end.
