New York Giants consider selling 10% stake, attracting private equity interest

The New York Giants are exploring the sale of a minority, non-controlling stake of up to 10%, a move expected to push the franchise’s valuation to record levels.

The potential sale could mark a historic milestone in NFL ownership, particularly as private equity firms continue their push into professional sports investments.

The Mara and Tisch families, who each own 50% of the team, have engaged Moelis & Co. as their investment banker to oversee the process. “The Mara and Tisch families have retained Moelis & Company to explore the potential sale of a minority, non-controlling stake in the New York Giants,” the team stated.

This exploration follows the NFL’s policy change in August 2023, allowing private equity firms to acquire up to 10% stakes in teams, a shift that has already drawn institutional investors into the league. Arctos Partners and Ares Management have both acquired 10% stakes in the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins, respectively, setting a precedent for private capital in NFL ownership.

Given Forbes’ valuation of the Giants at $7.3bn, with CNBC estimating it at $7.85bn, this sale could further elevate the franchise’s market worth. The Philadelphia Eagles recently set a benchmark by selling an 8% stake at an $8.1bn–$8.3bn valuation.

With strong investor appetite for high-value sports assets, private equity firms are expected to take a keen interest in the Giants’ minority stake sale. The deal could reinforce the growing role of institutional capital in NFL ownership, shaping the future landscape of franchise investments.