FX.co ★ Axel Springer To Become Privately Owned; Classifieds To Become Separately Held Under KKR, And CPP

Axel Springer SE (AXELF.PK) has announced plans to restructure its corporate makeup, aiming to establish a dedicated media entity while separately housing its classifieds businesses. The transaction is anticipated to be finalized by the second quarter of 2025. Under the new structure, Axel Springer's media operations and the joint venture Ringier Axel Springer Poland will remain under Axel Springer's umbrella. As a privately owned and operated media company, Axel Springer will be free from debt.

Meanwhile, the Stepstone Group, AVIV Group, finanzen.net, and Awin will be organized as independent joint ventures, with KKR and CPP Investments holding the majority shares. Axel Springer will retain a minority stake, and economic participation will extend to the grandchildren of Axel Springer.