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Intertrust acquires Viteos for USD 330 million

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Intertrust N.V. (“Intertrust”), a leading global provider of expert administrative services to corporate, fund, capital markets and private wealth clients, today announces the acquisition of Viteos1, a provider of leading-edge technology solutions for U.S. funds, from PPC Enterprises LLC, FiveW Capital LLC (an affiliate of 22C Capital) and Viteos management.

Viteos is a tech-enabled alternative funds industry leader providing end-to-end middle and back office administration for top tier hedge funds, private equity, real estate, private debt and other alternative asset managers. Viteos has approximately 715 employees and operates a global delivery model with its headquarters and sales team in the U.S. supported by Centres of Excellence in India. Viteos delivered revenues of USD 52 million2, 94% in the U.S., having grown at an organic CAGR of 22% over the last two years, and an EBITDA margin of 36.6%.

Transaction highlights

  • Competitive game-changer for Intertrust, accelerating our strategy to become a global leader in tech-enabled corporate and fund solutions through:
    • Gaining a material presence in the U.S., increasing exposure to funds and accelerating our growth potential
    • Leveraging Viteos’ digitalisation and automation technology
    •  Building on Viteos’ offshore Centres of Excellence
  • Enterprise value of USD 330 million (EUR 294 million3), resulting in a post-synergy multiple of 8.0x FYE March 2019EBITDA
  • Significant net run-rate annual cost synergies of approximately USD 22 million4 expected primarily from offshoring
  • ROIC expected to exceed Intertrust’s WACC by 2021 and reach double-digits by 2022
  • Mid-single digit EPS accretion expected by 2020 with double- digit accretion expected by 2021
  • Sound financing structure: approximately 4.1x leverage ratio5 at closing, with strong cash generation expected to drive leverage ratio below 3.0x by 2021
  • Medium-term guidance increased to reflect enhanced revenue growth and cost synergies
  • Viteos’ co-founders, Shankar Iyer and Chitra Baskar (formerly CEO and COO, respectively), will join our Executive Committee and, along with other key employees, have reinvested approximately 35% of their after-tax proceeds in Intertrust shares

Strategic rationale

The acquisition of Viteos is an acceleration of our strategy to become a global leader in tech-enabled corporate and fund solutions, adding a high growth provider of leading-edge technology solutions with a top 10 position in U.S. fund administration and over 80 top tier clients.

The combined group will build on the existing technology partnership between the two companies and the professional relationships between the management teams to drive further growth and lead the digitalisation and innovation of the industry. Viteos’ world-class client base and technology solutions, developed by a team of 130 technology experts, significantly expand the market potential for Intertrust into higher growth adjacencies with attractive cross-selling and upselling opportunities.

The acquisition of Viteos meets the strategic and M&A objectives set out in our Capital Markets Day and, in particular, delivers:

  • Meaningful presence in the U.S. and increased exposure to funds – the combined group will hold a top 10 position in U.S. fund administration providing mission-critical services to asset managers.
  • Accelerated growth potential – Viteos brings new clients, services and technology solutions which expand Intertrust’s market potential into higher growth adjacencies with an annual market value of >EUR 3.5 billion, resulting in a total market potential in excess of EUR 10.0 billion growing at 4-6% per annum (up from EUR 6.5 billion growing at 3-5%).  
  • Strengthened technology foundation – Viteos is at the forefront of digitising and automating fund administration with leading-edge technologies including blockchain, workflow automation, RPA6, and digitalisation/OCR7. Leveraging these tools, the combined group will have the potential to drive incremental revenue growth through service innovation and reduce costs through service automation.
  • Significant step towards operational excellence – building on Viteos’ offshore Centres of Excellence in India will allow us to fast-track our standardisation, centralisation and shared services initiatives, improving the efficiency and quality of our services.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Stephanie Miller, CEO of Intertrust, said:

“Today I am thrilled to announce the acquisition of Viteos. This is a significant leap forward for Intertrust which will accelerate our strategy in every way.

The combination of these world-class businesses enhances our global position in fund services, expands our presence in the U.S. and unlocks many opportunities to cross sell our products and services. It will provide tremendous benefits to our existing clients through advanced technology, a digitised delivery model and a solution-oriented service suite. With the addition of over 700 employees including 130 technology experts, I am particularly excited for the future innovations that our combined organisation will bring to the industry.

These benefits are reflected in the strong value creation from the transaction in the form of double-digit ROIC, double-digit EPS accretion as well as increased growth and margin guidance.

Furthermore, we welcome a Viteos team who is dynamic, engaged and will further our goal of becoming the employer of choice in our industry. Earlier this year Intertrust started a powerful collaboration with Viteos. Today we move forward together as one company to lead the digitalisation and innovation of our industry.”

Shankar Iyer, CEO of Viteos, said:

“This is a very exciting opportunity for Viteos to become an integral part of a successful, global business. We have longstanding relationships with the Intertrust team who are familiar with our industry-leading technology solutions. By bringing together our complementary strengths and capabilities, we will significantly enhance the future prospects for the combined group. We look forward to working with Stephanie and her team and are deeply committed to delivering on our shared strategic objectives.”

Financial benefits

The acquisition of Viteos has compelling financial benefits. The transaction is expected to deliver mid single-digit EPS accretion in the first full year of ownership (2020) and double-digit EPS accretion by 2021 including phased synergies. The ROIC of the transaction is expected to exceed Intertrust’s WACC by 2021 and reach double-digits by 2022 including phased synergies.

USD 22 million of net run-rate annual cost synergies have been identified on a detailed bottom-up basis by Intertrust, Viteos and an expert offshoring consultancy. The synergies will primarily come from offshoring selected support functions for client-facing teams, back office and IT support, with India Centres of Excellence balancing existing jurisdictions and enabling 24-hour support for our clients. We expect to deliver approximately 90% of the synergies by 2021 with approximately 20% coming through by 2020. The aggregate one-off costs over the period to deliver the synergies are estimated at approximately USD 30 million.

Terms and financing

The enterprise value for the acquisition is USD 330 million (EUR 294 million), resulting in a pre-synergy multiple of 17.3x FYE March 2019 EBITDA. Including net run-rate annual cost synergies of USD 22 million, the equivalent post-synergy multiple is 8.0x FYE March 2019 EBITDA.

The acquisition was funded through debt (new USD 150 million term loan plus RCF) and cash on balance sheet with USD 11 million re-invested by Viteos’ management and key employees in Intertrust shares. Leverage ratio8 at closing amounts to approximately 4.1x and is expected to decrease to below 3.0x by 2021.

Following receipt of regulatory approvals, simultaneous signing and closing of the transaction occurred on 17 June 2019.

Guidance

In connection with the acquisition of Viteos, Intertrust is increasing its medium-term guidance as follows:

  • 4-6% underlying revenue growth year-on-year9 (increased from 3-5%);
  • Adjusted EBITA margin of at least 40% for 2021 (increased from at least 38%), from at least 36% in 2019 (unchanged);
  • Capex around 2% of revenue in the medium-term (unchanged) and up to 3% in early years to deliver the Centres of Excellence;
  • Effective tax rate of around 21% (19% previously);
  • Dividend policy and target leverage ratio remain unchanged.

 

SOURCE Intertrust

Blockchain

Cryptocurrency 2024: All You Need to Know About the Trends and Regulatory Updates

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With each passing year, the cryptocurrency landscape becomes more dynamic, as new trends emerge and regulatory frameworks adapt to keep pace with the industry. What updates are waiting for us in 2024? Let’s delve in.

One of the most intriguing intersections in the crypto world is the integration of artificial intelligence with blockchain technology. AI has the potential to enhance security, optimize transactions, and streamline processes within blockchain networks. By leveraging AI algorithms for data analysis and automation, blockchain systems can become more efficient, resilient, and adaptive to evolving market demands.

However, one pervasive challenge that hinders AI development is the high cost and resource consumption associated with its development. Fortunately, the emergence of blockchain technology has the potential to tackle this issue head-on through its inherent decentralization. By leveraging blockchain technology, several crucial advantages can be realized.

Firstly, the immutability of blocks ensures heightened security, an essential factor when dealing with sensitive and confidential data. Additionally, blockchain technology enables the verification of the source of data, ensuring authenticity and reducing the risk of tampering or manipulation. Moreover, the distributed computing power offered by blockchain allows for calculating complex models without requiring substantial investments in expensive infrastructure. This significantly reduces costs associated with AI development, making it more accessible to a broader range of innovators and organizations. Besides, the blockchain’s ability to provide monetization opportunities for the results obtained makes it an attractive prospect for individuals and companies seeking to leverage AI technology for profit. All that allows to solve the challenges of cost and resource consumption, facilitating a leap forward in advancing AI

Securing access control

In 2024 we will see the development of DePIN technology. This is majorly predetermined by the need for access to expensive computing power AI technologies often require. Decentralized physical infrastructure networks address this challenge by providing a decentralized and cost-effective alternative. Since DePIN technology enables the sharing of computing power and resources across a network of decentralized nodes, it gives the potential to accelerate the development of AI and other advanced technologies, making them more accessible to a broader range of industries and use cases. Besides, it can be applied more broadly to address critical infrastructure gaps in various contexts, such as providing access to healthcare and education in underdeveloped regions.

Zero-knowledge Proof and Increased Confidentiality

The emergence of Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKp) technology keeps revolutionizing data security and confidentiality in projects built on blockchain technology. ZKp allows for the verification of data accuracy without the need to disclose the actual data itself, ensuring heightened privacy and protection. This breakthrough has addressed a crucial parameter in data security, which has historically been a significant concern for individuals and organizations. In 2023, we could witness many newly built projects utilizing ZK technology. Looking ahead, 2024 is expected to witness further advancements.

Beyond its implications for the speed and cost of transactions on Layer 1 networks like Ethereum, ZK-Rollup technology, which combines multiple transactions into a single packet off-chain while confirming authenticity using ZK technology, has broader applications in the real world. One notable application is in the secure transfer and storage of personal data. With ZKp technology, individuals and organizations can securely transfer sensitive information without exposing its essence. This has significant relevance in fields such as medicine, where patient data needs to be confidentially transferred between healthcare providers, ensuring privacy and complying with data protection regulations. Additionally, ZKp can play a crucial role in the banking industry and government services where personal financial information can be securely shared for verification purposes without compromising privacy.Furthermore, ZKp can be leveraged in supply chain management to ensure the integrity and transparency of the entire supply chain process, from sourcing raw materials to delivering finished products.

The synergy between Optimism and Zero-Knowledge technologies has the potential to optimize a wide range of real-world problems and tasks through the integration of blockchain solutions. For instance, optimism, a layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, is designed to enhance transaction throughput and reduce fees on the blockchain. The combination becomes even more powerful by leveraging ZK technology, which ensures data privacy and integrity.

This collaboration opens up numerous possibilities for optimization in industries such as supply chain management, finance, healthcare, and more. For example, Optimism + ZK can streamline and secure supply chain processes by providing immutable and auditable records of every step in the chain while guaranteeing data confidentiality. This combination can revolutionize payment systems in the financial sector, enabling fast and secure transactions while protecting sensitive user information. Furthermore, Optimism + ZK can facilitate the secure and transparent sharing of patient data between healthcare providers, enhancing collaboration and improving patient outcomes.

IoT Adoption, Gaming and further Blockchain integration

The Internet of Things is revolutionizing the way we interact with technology, and its integration with blockchain is poised to further enhance data security and interoperability. By leveraging blockchain’s decentralized, tamper-proof ledger for IoT data storage and management, organizations can ensure the integrity and authenticity of IoT-generated data.

Meanwhile, when it comes to the gaming industry, the integration of blockchain technology into the gaming industry is opening up new possibilities for decentralized gaming platforms, in-game asset ownership, and secure transactions. Blockchain-based gaming platforms offer players increased transparency, immutability, and ownership of digital assets, creating new avenues for monetization and player engagement. With blockchain powering the gaming industry, we can anticipate a more secure, transparent, and immersive gaming experience for players worldwide.

To conclude, this year if going to be transformative for the cryptocurrency industry. The trends illustrate the growing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies. The potential for innovation and growth in the crypto space is vast, and 2024 promises to be a pivotal year in the evolution of blockchain technology and its applications.

Mike Romanenko

CVO, Co-Founder of https://kyrrex.com/

Mike, who has more than a decade of experience in investment and financial regulation, is a co-founder of Kyrrex. Besides, Mike holds key roles at Unicorn Factory Ventures and Vireye Game Studios, championing web3 and gaming innovations. Often featured in podcasts and panels, he’s a recognized authority in the crypto domain.

About Kyrrex
Kyrrex is a regulated crypto ecosystem that provides a one-stop shop for bridging finance, payment, and trading operations with cryptocurrency on a single platform. Kyrrex is registered in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and its operations have been acknowledged and accepted by the SVG Financial Services Authority to provide regulated crypto services with the goal of giving clients the flexibility to carry out all their crypto transactions under one roof.

Kyrrex has obtained the Malta VFA Class 4 License in 2021. Applying for such a license requires the applicant to demonstrate a deep understanding of the regulatory framework, provide detailed business plans, ensure compliance with the relevant AML regulations, and establish internal security measures.

Also, Kyrrex actively cooperates with sports industry. Kyrrex takes pride in its exceptional roster of sports ambassadors representing its values and shared passion for the crypto industry. In the realm of MotoGP, Kyrrex proudly boasts ambassadors such as Jorge Martin, Aleix Espargaro, and Pedro Acosta, all of whom showcase their extraordinary skills and determination on the racing track. Additionally, Kyrrex extends its support to the padel sport with ambassadors like Arturo Coello, Martin Di Nenno, Paula Josemaria Martin, and Marta (Martita) Ortega.

The post Cryptocurrency 2024: All You Need to Know About the Trends and Regulatory Updates appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.

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Digital collective restores carbon market credibility through immutable smart contracts

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SDAX Unveils World’s First Securitised Gold Tokens for Digital Exchange Users

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SDAX, Singapore’s leading Digital Assets Exchange, has expanded its product offering to include a first of its kind tokenised gold product. In partnership with the Oman-based Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC, the MPMT Gold Token offers investors a gold token in a securitised form, unlike other gold token offerings currently available in the market.

The MPMT Gold Tokens, which are available exclusively on the SDAX Exchange platform offer investors increased protection, being in a securitised form and issued by an independent trust and backed by physical gold bullion held in secure vaults at Le Freeport, Singapore.

This product uses securitisation techniques and offers investors who are seeking an easier way to gain exposure to gold without having to find storage methods for housing the physical bullion. Owners are also able to trade gold tokens for physical settlement with qualified market makers through the SDAX platform.

Commenting on the launch, SDAX CEO, Rachel Chia said, “We saw an opportunity in the market to make owning gold through tokenisation a much more secure proposition for investors. These securitised tokens confer an additional layer of safety, allowing investors greater peace of mind about their investments.”

With spot gold prices sitting at record highs, investors are presently faced with a multitude of gold investment options. By securitising the gold tokens, SDAX is providing investors with a convenient, reliable, and most importantly, secure alternative investment approach. The securitised tokens allow for investors to acquire and hold a beneficial ownership interest in a specified quantity of gold legally held by an independent trust for the investors. This is compared to other gold investment options like exchange traded funds (ETFs) or bank issued depository gold certificates where the gold is owned by the ETF provider or the bank.

“As gold prices continue to trade at record highs and with macro-economic forecasts supporting a likely continued trend, we thought it was the perfect time to offer a gold product exclusively to our SDAX users that was unique and not currently available in the market,” Chia added.

In partnership with the Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC, Oman’s first precious metals trading company that specialises in a range of commodities including gold, silver, and platinum, SDAX is able to provide gold tokens at scale and speed.

“We are excited to be part of this new offering that allows investors to gain secure exposure to the gold market through the MPMT Gold Token. As gold prices rise, driven by safe-haven demand, central bank buying and rising geopolitical risks, it is important for investors to have options, which is why we are happy to work with SDAX on this compelling gold investment alternative. This partnership with SDAX will also allow us to reach a wider base of sophisticated investors on the SDAX platform,” said Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC CEO, Shihab Al Busaidi.

The MPMT Gold Token was created with the assistance of global law firm Clifford Chance LLP, London,  global trustee APEX, Jin Huang Bullion as bullion agents, and Hydra X as custodian. Walkers advised on the product and offering with respect to Cayman Islands law. BTPLaw LLC provided advice on the tokens from a Singapore law perspective.

Clifford Chance London Securitisation Partner, Kevin Ingram commented: “This product shows how securitisation techniques can add value to new concepts for the benefit of participants. We are delighted to be involved in the creation of this exciting product.”

“Hydra X is delighted to partner with SDAX and to provide custodial services and technology solutions to facilitate the tokenisation of real-world assets such as gold. This initiative reflects our commitment to making investment opportunities more accessible and leading the way in setting new standards in a blockchain-enabled, regulated digital asset landscape,” added Wee Hao Ng, COO, Hydra X.

The MPMT Gold Token is only available to accredited investors and institutional investors exclusively on the SDAX Exchange platform. For more information on the MPMT Gold Token, visit www.sdax.co/gold.

The post SDAX Unveils World’s First Securitised Gold Tokens for Digital Exchange Users appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.

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