
| Central European Media Enterprises to Buy Out Minority Partners in Studio 1+1 in Ukraine |
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«Central
European Media Enterprises Ltd. (“CME”) (Nasdaq/Prague Stock Exchange: CETV)
today
announced that it has entered into agreements with its partners in Studio 1+1
to acquire all minority interests in the Studio 1+1 Group of companies. Upon
completion of this transaction, CME will own 90% of Studio 1+1 and will have a
right to acquire the remaining 10%. Currently CME holds 60% of Studio 1+1.CME
expects to fund the transaction from cash on hand and its current credit
facilities. The transaction is expected to close by the end of the second
quarter of 2008 following the receipt of certain regulatory approvals.
Michael Garin, CME’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “This is a landmark
moment for CME as we achieve another key goal of our growth strategy. Ukraineis
our largest market in terms of population. We are convinced that in the next
few years
The 30% interest CME will acquire at closing includes interests that CME had
previously agreed to acquire from Igor Kolomoisky pursuant to option rights
which Mr. Kolomoisky is assigning to CME. The total consideration payable on
completion of the purchase of the 30% interest will be approximately US$ 219.6
million. Boris Fuchsmann and Alexander Rodnyansky are entitled to receive cash
consideration of $79.6 million. Under the terms of our agreement with Mr.
Kolomoisky, consideration payable to him may be in cash or Class A shares of
CME.
Following the closing of the purchase of the 30% interest, Boris Fuchsmann and
Alexander Rodnyansky will have the right to put their remaining 10% interest to
CME. The put option has an initial minimum price of US$ 95.4 million in the
first year, US$ 102.3 during the second year and thereafter US$ 109.1 million
or an independent valuation whichever is the greater. The call price is set at
US$ 109.1 million from closing. After a year, the call price will be
based on an independent valuation with a minimum price of US$ 109.1 million. If
CME exercises its call rights, CME’s partners have the right to receive
consideration in cash or Class A shares of CME» (press release from the company).
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