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Conagra Brands Enters Into a Definitive Agreement to Divest its 51.8% Ownership Stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited

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Conagra Brands (CAG) to divest 51.8% stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited, a Mumbai-based food company, to funds advised by Convergent Finance and Samara Capital. The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024.
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The divestiture of Conagra's majority stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited represents a strategic realignment of the company's international portfolio. This move will likely result in a one-time gain or loss on the sale, depending on the transaction price relative to the book value of the investment. Investors should monitor the impact of this transaction on Conagra's balance sheet, particularly in terms of cash inflows and potential debt reduction. The cessation of consolidation of ATFL's financials could streamline Conagra's income statement, possibly leading to improved financial ratios and a clearer picture of the company's core operations.

Moreover, the market will be looking at the redeployment of the capital received from this divestiture. Whether Conagra opts for reinvestment in core areas, debt reduction, or shareholder returns, the decision could signal management's confidence in their strategic direction and impact investor sentiment. It's also important to consider the tax implications of this divestiture, as they could affect the net financial benefit to Conagra.

Exiting the Indian market could indicate a shift in Conagra's focus towards markets where it has a more competitive edge or higher margins. Agro Tech Foods Limited, being a significant player in the Indian food industry, might have provided Conagra with insights into emerging markets. However, the sale suggests either a strategic pivot or a decision to concentrate resources on more profitable ventures. For stakeholders in the food industry, this move could signal an industry trend where multinational corporations reassess their positions in developing markets.

The response of the market to this news will depend on the perceived strategic fit of this divestiture within Conagra's broader business objectives. If the market views this move as a positive step towards a more focused business model, it could be reflected in the stock's performance. Conversely, if investors interpret this as a retreat from a potentially lucrative market, it might raise concerns about missed growth opportunities.

Given that the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, it is an indicator of the complex regulatory environment that multinational corporations must navigate when conducting cross-border transactions. The involvement of high-profile advisors such as Bank of America and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas underscores the importance of due diligence and legal expertise in structuring deals that comply with diverse regulatory requirements. Stakeholders should pay attention to the progress of these approvals, as any delays or complications could affect the timeline and final terms of the deal.

It is also noteworthy that the deal is expected to close by the end of the calendar year 2024, providing a clear timeline for stakeholders to track progress and anticipate the transaction's completion. This timeline will be important for investors as they assess Conagra's performance and strategic moves throughout the year.

CHICAGO, Feb. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) announced that one of its subsidiaries has entered into a definitive agreement with funds advised by Convergent Finance and Samara Capital to divest its 51.8% ownership stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited (ATFL), a food company based in Mumbai, India, and listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of any applicable regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of calendar year 2024. Upon the close of this agreement, Conagra Brands will no longer consolidate the results of ATFL in its financial statements.

Conagra Brands was advised by Bank of America and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas on this transaction.

About Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America's leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company's portfolio is evolving to satisfy people's changing food preferences. Conagra's iconic brands, such as Birds Eye®, Duncan Hines®, Healthy Choice®, Marie Callender's®, Reddi-wip®, and Slim Jim®, as well as emerging brands, including Angie's® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, Duke's®, Earth Balance®, Gardein®, and Frontera®, offer choices for every occasion. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

Note on Forward-looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding regulatory approvals and the expected timing of completion of the proposed transaction. There is no assurance that the proposed transaction described above will be consummated, and there are a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements made herein, including risks relating to the timing and ability to obtain the required regulatory approvals and satisfy the other closing conditions for the proposed transaction, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could delay the closing of the proposed transaction, and other risks and uncertainties described in Conagra Brands' filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent Conagra Brands' judgment as of the date of this release. Conagra Brands undertakes no responsibility to update these statements, except as required by law.

For more information, please contact:

MEDIA:
Dan Hare
312-549-5355
Daniel.hare@conagra.com

INVESTORS:
Melissa Napier
312-549-5738
IR@conagra.com

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SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.

FAQ

What stake is Conagra Brands divesting in Agro Tech Foods Limited?

Conagra Brands is divesting its 51.8% ownership stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited.

Which funds are advising on the divestment of Conagra Brands' stake?

Convergent Finance and Samara Capital are advising on the divestment of Conagra Brands' stake in Agro Tech Foods Limited.

When is the expected completion date for the divestment transaction?

The divestment transaction is expected to be completed by the end of calendar year 2024.

Who advised Conagra Brands on this transaction?

Conagra Brands was advised by Bank of America and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas on this transaction.

Conagra Brands, Inc.

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