Boardroom Alpha recaps the SPAC market activity for April 2023, highlighted by Ares’ $500M IPO on their second vehicle.
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SPAC Market Review – March 2023
The SPAC market continues to inch along at a slower and smaller pace, but there is little excitement at the moment for any participant.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Tues, Mar 21
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (RBA) successfully completed its acquisition of IAA Inc. (IAA), fending off shareholder fights.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Thurs, Mar 9
Biogen Inc. (BIIB) chairman Stelios Papadopoulos will not stand for reelection at the annual meeting, and other highlights of the day.
SPAC Market Review – February 2023
We recap the SPAC market activity for February 2023 — including an increasing pace and amount of deSPAC bankruptcies.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Weds, Mar 1
Salesforce Inc. (CRM) surges after hours following earnings amidst potential activist activity and today’s SPAC, IPO, and Exec News.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Thurs, Feb 23
American Airlines (AAL) announces its new chairman of the board as Gregory D. Smith, the former CEO of Boeing (BA).
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Tues, Feb 21
Rubicon Technologies (RBT) CEO Jevan Anderson resigned, Marblegate is merging with itself, and the rest of the day’s digest.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Thurs, Feb 9
Nelzon Peltz and Trian dropped their proxy fight against Walt Disney Co. (DIS) following Disney’s cost cutting, reorg, and board appointments.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Wed, Feb 8
Amidst a proxy fight with Trian, Walt Disney Co. (DIS) announced that it will cut ~7k jobs as part of a $5.5B cost savings plan.
SPAC Market Review – January 2023
It was a slower month to kick off the year for SPACs. In what stands to be a pivotal year for the future of the market, we recap January.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Wed, Feb 1
Fedex Corp. (FDX) announced it would be laying off ~10% of its corporate workforce and Ryan McInerney officially takes over at Visa (V).
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Wed, Jan 25
Campbell Soup (CPB) announces a new CFO, DeSPACs are back in action and the rest of the Boardroom Alpha digest.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Mon, Jan 23
Activist investor has taken a multi-billion dollar position in Salesforce Inc. (CRM) and the rest of today’s digest.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Thurs, Jan 19
Reed Hastings has stepped down as Co-CEO of Netflix (NFLX), Trian continues to fight Disney (DIS), and Flotek (FTK) CEO is out.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Tues, Jan 17
Disney (DIS) is ramping up its defense against Trian and Nelson Peltz, and the IPO market has kicked off with two new issues.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Weds, Jan 11
Nelson Peltz’s Trian is gearing up for a proxy fight against Walt Disney Co. (DIS) who named Mark Parker as chairman.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Tues, Jan 10
Former DeSPAC Wejo Group Ltd. (WEJO) is set to merge with another SPAC and Frank D’Amelio joins the board of Pfizer (PFE)
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Mon, Jan 9
Rite Aide Corporation (RAD) parts ways with Heyward Donigan and Paya Holdings (PAYA) acquisition highlight Monday’s daily digest.
Boardroom Alpha Digest: Thurs, Jan 5
Boardroom Alpha’s Daily Digest highlights include Elizabeth Spaulding resigning as CEO of Stitch Fix (SFIX) and JNJ’s Kenvue filing for an IPO
SPAC Market Review – December 2022
December’s SPAC market review takes a look by the numbers of the month’s SPAC activity and how the market currently stands going into 2023.
SPACs Today: Wednesday, Dec 14
Rice Acquisition Corp. II (RONI) with an encouraging energy transaction, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPACs Today: Monday, Dec 12
Venus Acquisition Corporation (VENA) finally closed and changes ticker to MLGO, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Market Review – November 2022
November’s SPAC market review paints a picture of a SPAC market rushing towards the exit with high, and accelerating liquidations, more deal terminations, and almost no new SPAC IPOs.
SPACs Today: Thursday, Dec 1
Pacifico Acquisition Corp. (PAFO) are the latest with high redemptions, and the rest of today’s SPAC market news.
SPAC Daily: Wednesday, November 23
Digital World Acquisition (DWAC) finally gets its extension plus the rest of this week’s SPAC market activity.
SPAC Daily: Thursday, November 17
Cartesian Growth Corporation (GLBL) with another record challenging redemption number plus the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Tues, November 15
DeSPAC FOXO Technologies CEO/COO gets terminated as the stock is in free fall and the rest of today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Weds, November 9
Things are slow in SPAC land, we give a rundown of today’s happenings, filings and early liquidations in today’s update.
SPAC Market Review – October 2022
October’s SPAC review reviews the SPAC market for the month including early liquidations and what’s next for the market.
SPAC Daily: 2 DAs to Kick off Tuesday
The SPAC market seems alive with 2 new deals announced, plus what’s upcoming on the SPAC calendar this week.
Podcast: Getaround CEO Sam Zaid on Carsharing and Going Public
Sam Zaid, CEO of Getaround, joins David Drapkin on the podcast to discus what makes carsharing company Getaround so special and their journey to go public.
SPAC Daily: Early Liquidations Adding Up
Moelis’ Atlas Crest becomes the latest SPAC to seek an early liquidation in 2022, and the rest of today’s market news.
SPAC Daily: Wednesday, Oct 19
LMAO has huge redemptions, TETE strikes a deal, and more extensions in the pipeline with today’s SPAC market rundown.
SPAC Daily: 3 DAs to Kick off Week
3 new Definitive Agreements were announced today, AGAC facing an SEC investigation and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Spring Valley II IPOs
Spring Valley II prices a $200M SPAC IPO led by Citi, several liquidations, DAs and the rest of the day’s SPAC market news.
SPAC Daily: DWAC Adjourns Again
Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC) has to adjourn again, this time until November. Plus the rest of today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Market Review – September 2022
September’s SPAC review reviews the SPAC market for the month and several uncertainties ahead including the excise tax.
SPAC Daily: Will the TWTR News Change DWAC’s Chances?
Elon Musk appears to be buying Twitter (TWTR) at $54.20 after all, will there be any implications for DWAC? Plus today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: 2 DAs Highlight a Quiet Market
DAs for DTRT and SMIH highlight a slow time in the SPAC market, plus the rest of the day’s news including two rumored SPAC IPOs.
SPAC Daily: DAs Active in Turbulent Market
DeSPAC Cano Health (CANO) surged on rumors that they are near a deal to be taken over by Humana or CVS, plus today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Cano Health (CANO) Surges on Sale Rumors
DeSPAC Cano Health (CANO) surged on rumors that they are near a deal to be taken over by Humana or CVS, plus today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Chamath’s IPOD & IPOF Call it Quits
Chamath Palihapitiya decided to liquidate its mega SPACs IPOD and IPOF, DWAC tumbles, and the rest of today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Rumble (RUM) to Trade Monday
CF Acquisition Corp. VI. (CFVI) closed its merger with Rumble which will trade as RUM on Monday, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Tuesday 9/14
Maxpro Acquisition (JMAC) penned the lone SPAC DA of the day, plus the rest of today’s news in the market.
SPAC Daily: A Merger Monday
4 new SPAC deals to get the week started, a new SPAC for dMY plus of the rest of the day’s SPAC market news.
SPAC Daily: DWAC Circus Continues
Digital World Acquisition (DWAC) adjourns extension meeting till October and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: DWAC Adjourns Extension vote
Trump SPAC DWAC adjourns its extension vote until Thursday, raising the odds that the sponsor will have to pay up for its extension.
SPAC Market Review – August 2022
In our latest SPAC market review we take a look at August. A spike in DAs has not done enough to move the needle, and SPAC winter continues.
SPAC Daily: DWAC Extension Vote Looms
SPAC Market Review – July 2022Full SPAC ListingPodcast: Know Who Drives ReturnDaily SPAC...
SPAC Daily: Ackrell Calls it Quits and Liquidates
Ackrell SPAC Partners I Co. (ACKIT) confirmed it terminated its deal with Blackstone and will liquidate, plus the rest of today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: DWAC is Sinking
Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC) continues its slide back to reality, and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Daily: Blackstone Spats with Ackrell SPAC Partners I
SPAC land continues to surprise as Blackstone declines to fund an extension for Ackrell SPAC Partners I (ACKIU).
SPAC Daily: Merger Deal for Genesis Growth Tech Acquisition
Genesis Growth Tech Acquisition (GGAA) struck a deal with a French digital health co and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: DNAA / AKILI With a Wild Ride
Akili (AKLI) went on a wild trading ride on its DNAA ticker change, and the rest of the day’s news in the SPAC market.
SPAC Daily: Chamath’s DNAA Closes with Over 99% Redemptions
The SPAC terminations continue with the BLTS / Manscape deal being called off due to “market conditions.” LIVB is braving it though and announced a deal with Covalto.
SPAC Daily: Manscaped / Bright Lights Deal is Off
The SPAC terminations continue with the BLTS / Manscape deal being called off due to “market conditions.” LIVB is braving it though and announced a deal with Covalto.
SPAC Daily: Court Battles Heat Up
CPTK and FST are set up for court battles related to their failed business combinations, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Terminations on the Rise
SPAC Market Review – July 2022Full SPAC ListingPodcast: Know Who Drives ReturnDaily SPAC...
SPAC Daily: Chamath’s IPOD and IPOF Look to Extend
Chamath’s IPOD and IPOF SPACs both filed prelim proxies to extend their deadlines into 2023, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Mudrick Capital Acquisition II Gets Burned Again
Mudrick Capital Acquisition Corp. II (MUDS) gets spurned again, this time by Blue Nile, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Second DA for Tailwind Acquisition (TWND)
Tailwind Acquisition Corp (TWND) kicked off the week with a DA to take NUBURU public and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Return of the IPO
Return of the SPAC IPOs after a hiatus, August new deals are off to a hot start, and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Daily: LEAP and FST to Liquidate
Ribbit LEAP (LEAP) and Fast Acquisition II (FST) lead a new wave of liquidations, and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Market Review – July 2022
Liquidations, cancelled deals, and a dead IPO market highlight Boardroom Alpha’s July 2022 SPAC market review. Read for a full recap.
SPAC Daily: 3 New Deals to Start the Week
3 more SPAC merger definitive agreements announced on Monday and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs. SLAC, ENCP, GLTA
SPAC Daily: Athena Consumer Strikes German EV Deal
Athena Consumer (ACAQ) Strikes German EV Deal with Next.e.GO and the rest of the day’s moves in the SPAC market.
SPAC Daily: SCVX Throws in the Towel
SCVX ditches its free extension plans and decides to liquidate, plus the rest of the day’s news in the SPAC market.
SPAC Daily: LION With a New Merger
Lionheart III strikes a deal with a public Australian company, and the rest of the day’s news in the SPAC market.
SPAC Daily: Return of Merger Monday
3 SPACs announced business combinations on Monday including one head scratcher. Plus the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Pagaya Technologies (PGY) Memes
Pagaya Technologies (PGY) stock memes, huge redemptions for FaZe Clan (FAZE) and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: OPAL Fuels & ACTD Close Deal
OPAL Fuels & ACTD Close Deal and set to trade, plus the rest of today’s SPAC related news amid a very slow market.
SPAC Daily: FAZE Drops on Day-1
Faze Clan (FAZE) fell on its first day, Getty Images (GETY) will trade next week and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: FAZE Set to Make Debut
Big day of SPAC filings, extensions, and a deal termination. Plus FazeClan (FAZE) gets set to make its public debut.
SPAC Daily: Another 99% SPAC Redemption
BRPM and ITHX get their deal approvals while DUNE and TradeZero fight over whether there is still a deal.
SPAC Daily: BRPM / FaZeClan & ITHX / Mondee Deals Approved
BRPM and ITHX get their deal approvals while DUNE and TradeZero fight over whether there is still a deal.
SPAC Daily: GRRR Brings the Meme Trade Back
Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (GRRR) brought back the low-float SPAC meme trade in its first day, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Deep Medicine (DMAQ) Nabs Chinese EV Maker
Deep Medicine Acquisition Corp. (DMAQ) announced a deal with Chinese EV maker Chijet Motors, and the rest of today’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: Throwing in the Towel
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SPAC Daily: Trump’s DWAC Surges as Elon Tries to Skirt Twitter Deal
Trump’s DWAC surges on Twitter drama, Bill Ackman’s PSTH is calling it quits after failing to complete a deal, plus the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: SPACs Look to Avoid Paying for Extensions
The latest trend is for SPAC sponsors looking to extend but reduce the amount they had agreed to compensate shareholders, and today’s rundown.
SPAC Daily: Chamath’s DNAC Adjourns With no Vote
Chamath’s Social Capital Suvretta adjourned its meeting without voting, a deal for HPX, and the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
HSAQ Strikes $158M Deal with Orchestra BioMed
Health Sciences Acquisitions Corporation 2 (HSAQ) struck a deal with Orchestra BioMed to kick off the week’s SPAC news.
SPAC Market Review – June 2022
Boardroom Alpha’s June 2022 SPAC market review looks at the latest trends in SPACs, where the market is heading a recap of activity.
SPAC Daily: Double Deal Termination Adds to the Growing List as Q2 Ends
SPAC investors were hit with a double deal termination after hours as FCTV terminated its deal with eToro and ISLE ended it with Cytovia.
SPAC Daily: MSPR Discloses Shares for PLTR and CANO
DeSPAC MSP Recovery (MSPR) discloses additional shares to PLTR and CANO, plus the rest of the day’s SPAC news.
SPAC Daily: AMAO Strikes Royalty Management Deal
AMAO, with just $16M left, announced a post close business DA. Podcast: Know Who Drives...
SPAC Daily: DWAC Hit as Grand Jury Details are Digested
Once trading at $175, Digital World Acquisition (DWAC), the Trump-tied SPAC, may be coming back to reality and shareholders will be feeling the sting. Plus all the day’s SPAC news.
PGY Struggles on First Day, PSNY Up Next
Pagaya (PGY) shares fall on first day of trading as Polestar (PSNY) is set for its ticker change tomorrow, plus the day’s news in SPACs.
GGPI & Polestar Vote Finally Arrives as the Stock Spikes
GGPI shareholders go to vote on the latest EV SPAC deal. Warrant prices remain at their lows with no end in site. Plus the days’s biggest movers.
GGPI & Polestar on Track to Close with Low Redemptions
GGPI and Polestar are set to close their long awaited SPAC deal this week with low redemptions, plus the rest of today’s SPAC news.
Alvotech Puts Iceland on the SPAC Map
Icelandic biopharma Alvotech deSPACs today. DHAC announces DA with VSee Lab. Deal termination for AKIC and visual effects company DNEG. A flurry of extension votes. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
MAPS CEO Chris Beals on building the engine for cannabis commerce
Boardroom Alpha sat down with Chris Beals, CEO of WM Technology (MAPS) to discuss the company’s strategy for building a SaaS platform for cannabis commerce.
SPAC Deals in Plant-Based Proteins and Med Tech
SPAC deals for Moolec (plant-based proteins) and Excelera (med tech). Cannabis SaaS player SpringBig goes up in smoke– shares dropped 47% in their first day of trading. Grove Collaborative gets the green light. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
DWAC Can’t Seem to Stay out of Trouble
DWAC shares plunge 28% on news of a second SEC subpoena. Important merger vote for Sir Richard Branson today: VGII / Grove Collaborative. Tomorrow, EJFA / Papaya. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Deal for Diamond Retailer Blue Nile and Online Travel Booker Holisto
DAs for diamond retailer Blue Nile and online travel booking specialist Holisto. BIOT / Blade Therapeutics is terminated. Merger votes this week for VGII / Grove Collaborative and EJFA / Papaya. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Moroccan Agribusiness Forafric debuts
Moroccan agribusiness Forafric (AFRI) debuts. With TCAC / Springbig approved at 96% redemptions, we take a look at redemption trends. Lots of extension votes coming up. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Polestar Starts Shipping for 65,000 Unit Hertz Contract
Polestar starts shipping for 65,000 unit Hertz contract. GLAQ delays Forafric vote. Too early for psychedelics as Silver Spike II terminates Eleusis deal. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Warehouse Robot Maker Symbotic Gets Juiced
Shares of warehouse robot maker Symbotic (SYM) join the high redemption/thin float club, popping 120% on today’s debut. Merger approval for DYNS/ Senti Bio. The usual extensions. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Icelandic Biotech Alvotech Gets the Green Light
Icelandic biotech Alvotech gets merger approval in a busy voting day. The usual extensions. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SVFC / Symbotic Approved
SVFC approves Symbotic merger. SPACs are busy with 4 merger votes this week. Fingers crossed…lots of extension votes. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Blade Therapeutics Vote Delayed
The race against the clock continues. BIOT says it has enough votes for its merger with Blade Therapeutics, but needs more time to close. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Will Grove Collaborative Make it Over the Goal Line?
The Branson-backed sustainable consumer goods company reports soft Q1 results ahead of 6.14 merger vote. June’s going to be a nail biter– a slew of extension and merger votes coming up.
Seatgeek and Forbes Cancelled
An oversaturated SPAC market yields a combination of terminations and extensions as deal pressure intensifies. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Market Review – May 2022
Inflation, rising interest rates, and reduced corporate earnings across the board have led to persistent market gyrations which prove its too early for bottom fishing. The stampede out of deSPACs now makes it ‘deal-or-die’ time for those without targets.
Two SPAC deals as the clock keeps ticking
Two SPAC deals today; some important votes this week. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Despite an Icy SPAC Market, S-1s Keep Coming
The week ends with a third automotive tech deal announcement. S-1s continue to be filed. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Automotive Tech in Focus
Two DAs today in auto tech, one would represent China’s biggest U.S. listing since Didi. WeWork fires its CFO. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Social Platform Uplive Said to Be Exploring SPAC
Social platform Uplive said to be exploring SPAC. DA for LGTO and construction services provider Southland Holdings. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Wag! on Why Pet Care is a Growing Post-Pandemic Play
Garrett Smallwood, CEO of Wag! explains why the pet care segment is immune to inflationary fears and poised for post-pandemic growth.
MSP Recovery Sinks
MSP Recovery (MSPR) sinks, falling 53% on its debut. Biote gets approval. Lots of extension votes ahead. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
MSP Recovery Debuts Tomorrow
Medicare and Medicaid secondary payer reimbursement recovery specialist MSP Recovery (MSPR) begins trading tomorrow. Extension for TINV/Grindr. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Comera Life Sciences Debuts in the Red
Comera Life Sciences (CMRA), the maker of self-injectible biologics, deSPAC’d today, closing down 9%. An updated look at deSPAC count and redemption rates. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Deals on a Daily Double
Another 2 SPAC DAs today, offset by some liquidations. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
MSP Recovery Approved Amidst Market Bloodbath
Amidst the ongoing market bloodbath, SPACs continue to march forward. LCAP gets approval for MSP Recovery. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
2 More DAs as the Market Bounces Back Today
As the market bounces back today, 2 more DAs in virtual reality and propTech. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Starting the Week with 2 DAs
Starting the week off with 2 DAs– oil & gas and battery tech. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Comera Gets Approval, with Over 98% Redemptions
Squeeze alert: OTRA approves its merger with Comera Life Sciences, albeit with some of highest redemptions we’ve seen in a while (98.4%). And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Deal for Silicone Anode Battery Maker Amprius Technologies
SPAC deal for next-gen lithium ion battery maker Amprius Technologies. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Carsharing Play Getaround Strikes $1.2B DA
Carsharing play Getaround strikes a $1.2B DA. Troubled video game rental player Redbox is acquired. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
DA for Sleep Apnea Specialist ProSomnus
Shares of urban aircraft company EVEX sink in first day of trading. DA for sleep apnea specialist ProSomnus. 2 SPAC IPOs. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Grindr Gets a DA. Eve is Ready for Takeoff
Grindr gets a DA. Eve is cleared for takeoff tomorrow. BREZ redemptions ~58%, continuing a declining trend. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Cartesian Prices $200M IPO amidst the Week’s Wreckage
A $200M IPO for Cartesian Growth Corp.II (RENEU) ends a rough week. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Amidst Market Carnage, HYAC Sets Vote Date for Biote
With the S&P500 falling a precipitous 3.5%, today was a day to take cover. Biote next up for a vote. MAQC extends. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
High Redemptions on ZeroFox
LNFA approves extension for ZeroFox, high redemptions. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Nuclear Power is Back as NuScale Debuts in the Green
Nuclear power is hot as NuScale debuts in the green. SOUN gets squeezed. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Cannabis SaaS Play springbig Gets Valuation Haircut
Amended deal terms for TCAC/springbig. 2 SPAC deals today. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Market Review – April 2022
The market is a mess right now. A hawkish Fed and even more cautious SEC are slowing deals….but may raise the bar for more quality SPACs down the line.
More COVFEFE. DWAC Jumps as Trump Posts on Truth Social
DWAC jumps as Trump returns to Truth Social. NuScale Power (SMR) begins trading next week. Zanite (ZNTE) / Eve makes noise ahead of next week’s merger vote. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SoundHound Debuts Today in the Red
Speech recognition specialist Soundhound (SOUN) debuts today. More SPAC liquidations ahead? And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
The Green Energy Movement will be Digitized, says Voltus CEO Gregg Dixon
Voltus is gearing up for a $1.3B SPAC IPO in the coming months. We chat with CEO Gregg Dixon, who shares how the company is leading the charge to decentralize, decarbonize and digitize our energy resources.
DA for ISLE / Cytovia Therapeutics
DA for ISLE / Cytovia Therapeutics. Soundhound (SOUN) debuts tomorrow. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC IPO for Aimfinity
An IPO and another metaverse play. Elon buying TWTR is a good time for a DWAC and CFVI status check. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Two SPAC Deals to Start the Week
Monday’s buzzing with two med-related SPAC deals. Convert and PIPE action. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
DA for LMAO and SeaStar Medical
Ending the week with a deal announcement for LMAO and SeaStar Medical. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Redemptions Continue to Trend Lower
An updated look at redemption trends for the month of April. Deadline extensions for FOXW and GRCY. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Yotta Acquisition Prices $100M IPO
SPAC IPO for Yotta, convert for SWAG and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Deal for Bull Horn and Cancer Cell Therapy Specialist Coeptis Therapeutics
SPAC Deal for BHSE and cancer cell therapy biopharma Coeptis. Merger votes for Tempo Automation and Telesign. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Origin Materials on Paving the Way Toward a Carbon Negative Future
John Bissell and Rich Riley, Co-CEOs of Origin Materials (ORGN) tell us how bioplastics are ready and able to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Third Time’s a Charm for ESSC
ESSC announces DA with ICONIQ, its third after terminating with both JDS and Ufin Holdings. DUNE heads to court with its merger target. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SeatGeek-Redball IPO in the Spotlight
RBAC amended its S-4 for its merger with ticketing tech provider SeatGeek. Redemption update at GLSPT. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
ALAC Breaks up with SolarMax
Adding to the wave of deal terminations, Alberton Acquisition Corp. (ALAC) intends to terminate its merger with SolarMax. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Danimer Scientific’s CEO on How Bioplastics Can Help Save the World
Boardroom Alpha talks to Steve Croskrey, CEO of Danimer Scientific (DNMR), on why bioplastics technology is ready for takeoff and how the company is moving the world toward a carbon negative future.
Spotify Rival Deezer to Go Public via SPAC
Spotify rival Deezer is said to be in talks with I2PO, a SPAC backed by France’s Pinault family, controlling shareholder of Gucci-owner Kering. A $100M IPO for Southeast Asia-focused Aura FAT Projects Acquisition Corp. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC Deal for 8i and EUDA Health
SPAC deal for 8i Acquisition 2 Corp. (LAX) and EUDA Health. A look at upcoming merger and extension votes. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
ARTA / Prenetics Sets Merger Vote
Vote date set for Hong-Kong based COVID-19 lab provider Prenetics. A look at upcoming merger and extension votes. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
FOXO Technologies CEO Jon Sabes Is About to Disrupt the Insurance Industry
Boardroom Alpha talks to Jon Sabes, CEO of FOXO Technologies, which announced a SPAC merger with sponsor Delwinds Insurance Acquisition Corp. (DWIN). Sabes explains how epigenetic biomarkers can change the game for life insurance companies and tell us more about health and wellness than ever before.
NuScale Set for Merger Approval
We wrap a busy week in SPACs: deSPACs, DAs…and even some old fashioned rumor and speculation is back.
In a Nod to the SEC, Citi Redlights SPACs
WIth the SEC’s new rules looming large, Citi says no more SPAC IPO underwriting for now. A SPAC IPO is offset by two withdrawals. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Citi Redlights SPACs as Potential Liability Looms Large
Citigroup (C) pauses underwriting new SPAC IPOs amidst the potential for incremental legal risks. Regulatory scrutiny and monetary tightening are likely to mean more pain for the stock market– including IPOs.
Deal Announcements still flowing- PAFO / Caravelle Group
Deal announcements keep flowing with PAFO / Caravelle Group. NuScale gets PIPE financing. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
Gogoro Debuts in the Green
Gogoro (GGR) deSPACs in the green. Black Rifle Coffee Company (BRCC) takes a hit on warrant redemption. And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
GGPI/ Polestar revs up on HTZ Deal. DWAC Slammed by Elon’s TWTR Stake.
GGPI / Polestar revs on HTZ order. DWAC / Truth Social slammed by 2 executive departures and Elon’s TWTR stake. Two DAs! And the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
GGPI / Polestar gaining momentum on 5-Year HTZ Deal
GGPI shares are up 6% on an announced Polestar partnership with HTZ that includes purchasing up to 65,000 EVs over five years. We continue to view the shares as undervalued heading into the merger.
Bitcoin Miner Primeblock gets a $1.25B SPAC Deal
Ending the week with a bang: two SPAC IPOs, DA for VCXA, and merger approval for HLXA/ Immunotherapeutics AG.
SPAC Market Review – March 2022
Despite increased scrutiny and apparent investor fatigue, deals are getting done and SPACs remain an attractive path to the public markets.
All Eyes on Swvl, Gogoro Gets Approval.
Mass transit and shared mobility provider Swvl (SWVL) is the latest deSPAC. PPGH approved its merger with battery-swapping provider Gogoro. And extensions are a key theme as 3 SPACs buy themselves more time.
SEC Debuts New SPAC Rules
The SEC debuts new proposed SPAC rules. Taiwanese EV battery swapping infrastructure player Gogoro gears up for merger approval, BREZ extends. And the day’s news in SPACs.
Starry falls in trading debut
STRY deSPACs, Only Fans gets even more eyeballs as it reportedly looks for a deal. Swvl /GMBT makes noise ahead of tomorrow’s merger vote. And the day’s news in SPACs.
FMAC Drops PIPE Price Ahead of Starry Vote
FMAC closes its merger with Starry, with some major tweaks. ACBA extends merger vote. And the day’s news in SPACs.
Signs of Spring? SPAC Deal Activity Picked up this Week.
Signs of life in SPACland, with 4 deals and an IPO announced this week. Emerging Markets Horizon (HORI) cuts Russia ties. The week ends with the all-too-familiar deal cancellation. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
Say Hello to the Latest SPAC IPO. Meanwhile, deSPACs are Still Getting Squeezed.
RF Acquisition (RFAC) prices $100M IPO, Asia ex-China focus. FRGE and DRTS get juiced.
Innoviz (INVZ) CEO Omer Keilaf on LiDAR, Trust, and Commercial Production
Boardroom Alpha talks to Innoviz (INVZ) CEO Omer Keilaf on why LiDAR is equal parts trust and tech as the company captures the holy grail: volume commercial production.
French Couture House Lanvin Goes the SPAC Route in a $1.5B deal
Three DAs for SPACs including PCAC, AHPA and RNER, are we seeing a return to an active SPAC M&A market? Plus the rest of the day’s news.
Forge Global (FRGE) DeSPACs. Is it a Buy?
As Pre-IPO marketplace Forge Global (FRGE) deSPACs we look at the deal and whether it is a buy. Is this yet another win for Peter Thiel?
FRGE debuts with a squeeze; a Deal Announcement for THCP
Short squeeze action makes for an impressive debut at FRGE. Signs of life…a DA for THCP. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
Encouraging earnings results from 2 SPACs on tap: Voltus, Swvl
Encouraging earnings reports from Voltus and Swvl, 2 SPACs on tap. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAClife Gets Better with Two DAs
SPAClife gets better with two deal announcements…in biotech. More fun with short squeezes at SKYH. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
Vickers Seals the Deal with Scilex, More Mining This Week with MTAL
More mining action as MTAL acquires CSA Copper Mine. Moelis nixes IPO plans and of course more deal cancellations. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
Ciao! Pan Euro EV Charging Network Allego Debuts
Glorified extension cords or SaaS story? With EV charging margins ~20%, the software/cloud angle looks like a stretch without better visibility into long-term profitability and earnings growth
SPACs still raising capital, Neuberger has more in the works
Neuberger Berman announces $1.9 billion in committed capital. CFVI’s Rumble seems to pivot by adding “non-political” content. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
Amidst SPAC Carnage, Michael Dell’s MSDA Makes High Profile Add
MSDA makes a high-profile Board addition. CCIF and Denham pull their IPOs. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
DWAC nosedives amidst scant details and app hiccups
DWAC nosedives, VPCB cancels Kredivo deal and the rest of the day’s news in SPACs.
SPAC financing gets more creative amidst clogged PIPE market
SPAC financing has gotten increasingly more creative as the once hot PIPE market is very cold.
Without Committed Financing, SPAC Deals Done at Peak Valuations at Risk
Expect more SPAC deal cancellations as last year’s bubble valuations make them tougher to execute while committed financing dries up.
SPAC Carnage Continues, MTAC and Memic Call off Deal
MTAC and Memic Innovative cancelled their SPAC deal in the 11th of 2022. We recap the rest of the day in SPACs.
In the Earnings Spotlight: Cepton (CPTN)
DeSPAC CPTN reports Q4 earnings today aftermarket. We continue to see LiDAR as a 2023 story.
Tims China gets a haircut in SLCR SPAC Deal
Amidst SPAC meltdown, LBBB prices $60M IPO. SLCR cuts valuation on Tims China, GLAQ extends. And all the day’s news in SPACs.
DWAC: Where Big Tech and Free Speech Collide
Digital World Acquisition Corp (DWAC) in merging with Trump’s Truth Social is targeting the disruption of traditional and social media.
SPAC Market Review – February 2022
The SPAC market is a wreck, but if February taught investors anything, it’s that good fundamental stories can still prevail.
Satellogic CEO Emiliano Kargieman on SATL’s Progress Since deSPAC
Satellogic CEO Emiliano Kargieman discusses company’s plans for orbit and how they stand out in a newly competitive market.
Earnings Spotlight: Sofi Technologies (SOFI)
Nope, SOFI won’t print a perfect quarter. But expect stronger hands to prevail, thanks to a still high short interest and Goldman Sachs for the pre-quarter downgrade.
Earnings Spotlight: EV maker Lucid Group (LCID)
LCID stock is running hot into its Q4 earnings report, today aftermarket. The big question is what investors are willing to pay for growth.
MoneyLion CEO Dee Choubey on its deSPAC and the Road Ahead
ML stock got crushed following its deSPAC. But, with exciting new services and a clearer path to profitability, MoneyLion looks ready to roar.
SPACs for Yield with Crossing Bridge Advisors Founder David Sherman
Crossing Bridge Advisors founder David Sherman argues that even with the bloom off the rose for deSPACs, there is money to be made.
Exclusive: Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath Joins the Podcast
Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath isn’t here for a ‘short, quick win.’ He’s building a premium electric brand that’s nothing like its competitors. Or its parent, Volvo.
Cepton CEO Dr. Jun Pei Is Feeling Confident That the Company Has What It Takes to Lead in LiDAR
With its deSPAC behind it, the industry’s largest ADAS production win, and ties to auto giants Ford and GM, CPTN is off to a good start.
Two Warburg SPACs and JAWS Try for a 3-way Merger Deal
Scaling up for a potential $20 billion deal. In a rare, 3-way SPAC deal, two SPACs backed by...
Valentine’s breakup for ASAX’s SPAC Deal with HotelPlanner and Reservations.com
ASAX proves breaking up doesn’t have to be hard to do. Valentine’s day proves to be a day of unrequited love for Astrea Acquisition Corp. (ASAX), which terminated its merger with HotelPlanner and Reservations.com.
Inflation Came in Hot (Again), Adding Fuel to the SPAC Redemption Fire
A continued upward inflation trend will likely further push up already sky high SPAC redemption rates as investors look for additional liquidity.
Blair LaCorte, CEO of AEye, On Why Now is the Time to Look at LiDAR
Blair LaCorte, CEO of AEye (NASDAQ:LIDR), provides his take on Autonomous Driving, why a lidar shakeout is coming, and what the carmakers really want.
SPAC Market Review – January 2022
January saw the SPAC market fall quickly alongside the broader market as a revolt against “spec tech” and overall sentiment drove it lower.
Coffee Company or Lifestyle Brand? Black Rifle Coffee Set for Vote on SPAC Deal with SBEA
Tom Davin, Co-CEO of Black Rifle Coffee, and Joe Reece, the exec chair of SilverBox Engaged (SBEA) join to discuss the company, the merger, and their vision.
David Drapkin Talks SPACs with Nasdaq’s Jill Malandrino
Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin recently joined Jill Malandrino on Nasdaq Trade Talks to discuss SPACs. Get his wrap on 2021 and what to expect in 2022.
Tal Keinan on Sky Harbour Creating a Home-Base for Private Aviation
Sky Harbour CEO Tal Keinan on why he started the company, why it is set for success, and going public via SPAC with YSAC.
Rangeley’s Chris DeMuth Jr. on Value Investing and SPACs
For the latest Know Who Drives Return episode, David Drapkin talks to Rangeley Captial founder Chris DeMuth Jr. on SPAC and Value investing.
Sonder’s Francis Davidson on Re-Designing Hospitality and Merger with GMII
For the latest Know Who Drives Return episode, we sat down with Francis Davidson, the founder and CEO of Sonder, a hospitality company that leases and manages travel properties. Sonder is valued at nearly $2B and is going public through Gores Metropolous II. Francis, at just 29 years old, has been able to rapidly scale the company that he founded 8 years ago as a student at McGill University in Quebec. Will Sonder succeed in grabbing a larger share of the lodging space? Have a listen and read our full report on the Sonder deal.
Amy Nauiokas on FinTech VC, SPACs, Diversity, and Anthemis Digital (ADAL)
We were fortunate to sit down with Amy Nauiokas, the Co-Founder, Co-Chair, and Co-CIO of fintech investing platform Anthemis ($1.2B in AUM), who has been a leading fintech investor for nearly 15 years. Though she has a career that us regular folks might find astounding given she also runs a film and television production company, Archer Gray, which promotes story telling from diverse individuals.
The SPAC Gamma Squeeze
A plain english guide to the SPAC Gamma Squeeze. How it works, examples, and why investors need to be very careful.
10 SPACs Trading Below $10 with Proven Serial SPAC Sponsors
Looking for last minute adds to your SPAC basket before 2022? We’ve flagged 10 SPACs trading under $10 with proven serial SPAC sponsors for you to consider.
SPAC Market Review – December 2021
2021 is drawing to a close and what a year it was for SPACs. In our December market update we take a look at the last month of the year and give our latest thoughts on the market, including: record IPO issuance and SPAC supply; aging SPACs and outlook for terminations; and the merger market including its financing evolution
Dave CEO Jason Wilk on Saving Customers Billions and their SPAC Deal with VPCC
Dave CEO Jason Wilk joins Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin to discuss how DAVE has already saved customers billions, how it is shifting its business as it matures, and how its SPAC deal with VPC Impact Acquisition Holdings III (VPCC) will help fuel that shift.
HotelPlanner CEO Tim Hentschel on Their 3-Way SPAC Merger with Reservations.com and Astrea Acquisition (ASAX)
HotelPlanner and Reservations.com are going public in a three-way merger with Astrea Acquisition Corp (ASAX) $567M deal announced in August 2021.
Brivo CEO Steve Van Till on Cloud-Based Access Control and SPAC Merger with CPTK
Brivo Founder & CEO Steve Van Till talks merger with Crown PropTech Acquisitions (CPTK) and why access control is more important now than ever.
Greenbox POS Talking Blockchain and Stablecoin Coyni
Greenbox POS (GBOX), a fintech that utilizes block chain technology to create custom payment solutions co-founded by Ben Errez. The company up-listed to Nasdaq earlier this year, and its newly created stablecoin, Coyni, will be a separately publicly traded entity led by Paul Levine.
SPAC Sponsor Spotlight: Live Oak Merchant Partners
Investment firm Live Oak Merchant Partners is one of the leading “serial” SPAC sponsors, with views of maintaining a long term presence in the asset class. Led by Rick Hendrix and Gary Wunderlich, Live Oak brings both extensive capital markets and advisory experience with an investment track record.
BM Technologies’ (BMTX) Luvleen Sidhu on Becoming a Bank and FinTech Evolution
BM Technologies (BMTX) is a digital, mobile-first FinTech that was born out of BankMobile and boasts ~2M accounts. BankMobile was originally founded by Luvleen Sidhu and developed at parent Customers Bank (CUBI), before ultimately separating and going public via SPAC Megalith Financial Acquisition in January 2021. BMTX recently announced a strategic merger with First Sound Bank and now has plans to become a FinTech bank.
Will SeatGeek’s Primary Strategy Propel them to Ticketing Victory?
SeatGeek CEO Jack Groetzinger joins the podcast to discuss SeatGeek’s potential to grab market share in the ticketing landscape by focusing on primary (enterprise) clients, improving its tech stock and ramping up brand awareness.
Why Navitas Semiconductor (NVTS) Is the Next Big Thing in Chips with CEO Gene Sheridan
Veteran semi executive and Navitas Founder & CEO Gene Sheridan joins the Know Who Drives Return Podcast to discuss the future of GaN and future prospects for Navitas (NVTS), who recently went public via SPAC (Live Oak II).
Chad Rigetti on why Superconducting and Rigetti is the Best Bet on Quantum Computing
agreed to a SPAC merger with Supernova Partners Acquisition Co II (SNII). Quantum computing leaders are very bullish on the technology and are projecting that in 5-10 years every company will have quantum computers that can solve problems today’s computers cannot.
SPAC Market Review – November 2021
Boardroom Alpha’s monthly SPAC market review for November 2021.
Is Planet Labs (PL) Ready for Primetime as it Goes Public via DMYQ?
Earth Data company Planet Labs is going public thru dMY Technology IV (DMYQ) via a SPAC transaction. Founder and CEO Will Marshall, CFO Ashley Johnson, and dMY CEO Niccolo de Masi join us on the podcast to discuss Planet’s prospects and the SPAC transaction.
CUBI: New Customers Bank CEO Sam Sidhu on Digital Assets, Crypto Banking, and Leadership
Sam Sidhu is the new President and CEO of tech-focused regional bank Customers Bank. He joins the podcast to discuss the bank’s digital-first mindset and crypto.
Super Group / SEAH Aim for Global Online Gaming & Betting Wins, with CEOs Neal Menashe and John Collins
SPAC SEAH is taking Super Group public in a $4.6B deal that investors are hoping will close in the 4th quarter of 2021. Listen in to learn more about John and Neal’s backgrounds, why Super Group may be the right bet for investors, and their expectations on deal close timing, what will happen with warrants, and more.
Wejo CEO Richard Barlow on why Connected Vehicle Data is the Future (SPAC: VOSO)
Data veteran Richard Barlow joins the podcast to discuss why he founded Wejo and the prospects for the company amid what he expects to be a boom in connected vehicle data.
Codere Online (SPAC: DDMX) and the Gaming / Betting Landscape in LatAm
Martin Werner, CEO of DD3 Acquisition Corp II (DDMX) and Moshe Edree of Codere Online join David Drapkin to discuss their SPAC transaction and the future of gaming in LatAm.
ESG, Diversity & Activism with Olshan’s Elizabeth Gonzalez-Sussman
Now more than ever Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) are top of mind for management teams. Olshan partner Elizabeth Gonzalez-Sussman sits down on our podcast to discuss many of these trends, and what companies should be focused on.
CompoSecure / DBDR Going Beyond Metal Cards into Crypto w/ CEOs Jon Wilk & Don Basile
Listen in to hear why CompSecure CEO Jon Wilk and DBDR CEO Dr. Don Basile believe that the metal cards business is still in the early innings and their move into crypto will pay off for investors.
DWAC and Trump / TMTG Make SPACs Great Again
In this quick hit episode, David Drapkin talks to Matthew Tuttle from Tuttle Capital on the unprecedented action in DWAC as it breaks all SPAC and MEME records following its announcement to merge with Trump Media & Technology Group.
Inspirato’s CEO, Brent Handler, on their $1.1B SPAC Deal with Thayer Ventures (TVAC)
Brent Handler, and CFO, Web Neighbor, join Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin for a deep dive on Inspirato and the deal.
Vacasa’s Matt Roberts on their SPAC Deal with TPGS
Vacasa’s CEO Matt Roberts joins David Drapkin to discuss what makes Vacasa a compelling addition to investors’ portfolios as it goes public via SPAC.
Deep Dive on the Aurora + RTPY SPAC Deal w/ Chris Urmson and Michael Thompson
Aurora CEO Chris Urmson and Reinvent’s (RTPY) Michael Thompson join David Drapkin to talk self-driving technology, why Aurora is setup for success, and the overall SPAC market.
Okapi’s Bruce Goldfarb on Activism, the Rise of Retail, AMC, and SPACs
Bruce Goldfarb, CEO and Founder of Okapi Partners joins David Drapkin on the Know Who Drives Return podcast. Bruce goes deep on what he’s seeing in recent proxy seasons, contested M&A, SPACs, AMC, and whether retail investors are good for the markets.
SPACs for the Long-Term with True Wind Capital’s Scott Wagner & Tom Hegge
Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin is joined by True Wind Capital’s Scott Wagner and Tom Hegge. Listeners will remember Scott as the ex-CEO of GoDaddy and Tom is a long-time public market investor with private equity roots.
Investing in SPACs for Yield with Jonathan Browne from Robinson Capital
Jonathan Browne from Robinson Capital joins Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin to talk about SPAC arbitrage. Robinson Capital’s SPAX ETF launched in June of 2021 and is an actively managed exchange-trade fund (ETF) that invests in Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs), also known as blank check companies. SPAX seeks to provide total return while minimizing downside risk.
SPACs, FOMO, and Tail Risk – Matthew Tuttle Captures the Momentum
Matthew Tuttle from Tuttle Capital joins David Drapkin to talk about SPACs, FOMO, and tail risk. Tuttle Capital’s thematic and actively managed ETFs are taking advantage of the SPAC craze, everybody’s FOMO (fear of missing out), and protecting the downside tail risk.
Is Quantum Computing the Next Big Thing? IonQ & dMY CEO Niccolo de Masi Think So.
Niccolo de Masi of dMY Technology Group talks to Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin about why quantum computing is the next big tech innovation and how investors won’t want to miss out.
Kyle Bransfield and Ruben Minski on the Union Acquisition II / Procaps SPAC Deal
Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin welcomes Union Acquisition II CEO Kyle Bransfield and Procaps CEO Ruben Minski to the podcast. The deal goes to vote on September 22, 2021 and ex-redemption on September 17, so this will be one of shareholders’ last opportunities to hear from the team before deciding to redeem or go long alongside Kyle and Ruben.
Are Niccolo de Masi and dMY the Real SPAC Kings?
of the SPAC sponsor tables, how bad actors are stealing value from everyone else in the SPAC market, and why dMY is “long-term greedy.”
Sarcos CEO Ben Wolff on Robotics and SPACs
Ben Wolff, CEO of Sarcos, talks to Boardroom Alpha’s David Drapkin about robots, SPACs, and why investors should be looking at Sarcos as an opportunity to invest.