RB Global Ord Shs Stock Price, News & Analysis

Ritchie Bros. Financial Services achieved a significant milestone in 2022, surpassing US$1 billion in annual funded volume for the first time. This success resulted from innovative financing solutions and efficient approval processes, enabling many customers to acquire used equipment. Over 80% of transactions were approved, and 60% of funded volume came from private sales and dealers. Additionally, the company experienced 40% growth in funding private sales. The flexibility in financing options, including $0 down payment, has made RBFS a preferred choice for customers.

Ritchie Bros. has acquired a controlling stake of 75% in VeriTread, increasing its previous stake from 11%. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Ritchie Bros.' marketplace strategy by integrating transportation solutions into its technology platform, thereby improving customer experience and operational efficiency. VeriTread, established in 2013, specializes in heavy haul transportation services and offers a range of solutions, including a marketplace for shipments and an in-house brokerage. CEO Ann Fandozzi noted that this will optimize capacity and create a seamless experience for customers.

Ritchie Bros conducted its largest auction in the Pacific Northwest on December 21, 2022, selling over 3,700 equipment items for more than US$50 million in gross transaction value. The auction attracted over 8,200 bidders from 40+ countries, with 95% of sales to U.S. buyers. Key items included an all-terrain crane sold for US$400,000. The success was attributed to the company's satellite yard program, enhancing buyer convenience. Approximately 88% of items were sold from Chehalis, WA. Ritchie Bros offers a variety of sales solutions, with 30,000+ items listed for future auctions.

On December 20, 2022, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (NYSE: RBA) announced the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, facilitating its proposed acquisition of IAA, Inc. (NYSE: IAA). The companies have secured the necessary regulatory clearances and anticipate closing the transaction in the first half of 2023. Shareholder approvals from both parties are required to proceed, alongside customary closing conditions. This merger aims to enhance operational synergies and market presence in the asset management sector.

Ritchie Bros. held its largest December auction in Fort Worth, Texas from December 13-15, 2022, generating over US$86 million in sales from 800+ consignors.

With more than 12,600 registered bidders from 65+ countries, this event set a record for December participation. A significant 88% of the sold equipment went to U.S. buyers, with 43% to Texans. Highlights included the sale of various equipment types, such as 400+ truck tractors and 190 excavators, all sold without minimum bids.

Ritchie Bros Auctioneers (RBA) has successfully amended its credit agreement, facilitating its proposed merger with IAA, Inc. The company secured a term loan A facility of $1.825 billion and access to $200 million from a revolving facility. The amendment allows RBA to terminate existing backstop credit commitments and reduce bridge facility commitments. CFO Eric Jacobs expressed gratitude towards their lending partners for their support, highlighting the plan's alignment with the business strategy.

Ritchie Bros. has launched two platforms, the Ritchie Hub blog and Inside Edge podcast, to offer insights on the equipment market. With over $150 billion in equipment data processed daily, these resources will cover pricing trends, auction results, and expert interviews. Each month will feature a Market Trends Report focusing on different industries. The blog is accessible at Ritchie-Hub.com, while the podcast is available on major platforms, enhancing Ritchie Bros.' commitment to providing valuable market insights.

Ancora Holdings Group, a major IAA shareholder, has expressed significant concerns over IAA's planned sale to Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers. The firm, holding about 4% of IAA's shares, criticized the deal for insufficient cash consideration and a lack of a go-shop period. Ancora asserted that the board prioritized securing director roles over shareholder value and that the proposed 19% premium is inadequate. Citing IAA's strong market position with 40% share in North America and potential synergies, Ancora demands improved terms before supporting the transaction.