Private equity giants KKR and Intermediate Capital Group (ICG) have submitted preliminary takeover proposals for UK-based analytics firm GlobalData, triggering a near 36% surge in the company’s share price.

The interest reflects a broader private equity push into undervalued UK-listed assets, particularly on London’s AIM market, where depressed valuations have fuelled a rise in take-private activity. Both bidders have until 28 May to make a formal offer, in line with UK Takeover Panel rules.

GlobalData, which specialises in data analytics and consulting, reported 32% profit growth in its latest results and is targeting £500m in annualised revenue by 2026. Earlier this year, it announced plans to move its listing to the main market of the London Stock Exchange to broaden its investor base.

KKR and ICG have declined to comment on the ongoing talks.

The transaction, if successful, would add to the growing list of private equity-backed public-to-private deals in the UK, as market conditions and policy shifts continue to pressure AIM-listed firms.

Source: Reuters