ARTICLE
6 November 2025

Winning The Race To Take Private Between Signing And Closing

WG
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Contributor

Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for more than 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation, Corporate, Restructuring, and Tax, Executive Compensation & Benefits matters. Weil has been a pioneer in establishing a geographic footprint that has allowed the Firm to partner with clients wherever they do business.

A take-private is typically structured as (1) a one-step merger involving the target and typically, a newly-formed merger subsidiary of the buyer...
United States Corporate/Commercial Law
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A two-step structure can be faster, but does slow and steady win the race?

  • A take-private is typically structured as (1) a one-step merger involving the target and typically, a newly-formed merger subsidiary of the buyer or (2) a two-step merger, consisting of a tender offer by the buyer for all outstanding shares of the target, followed by a short-form merger that does not require stockholder approval.
  • Under a two-step structure, lenders may not be comfortable financing at the consummation of the tender offer for shares of a target that is not a Delaware corporation, if less than 100% of the shares are tendered. A one-step structure ensures 100% ownership at the time of financing.
  • A two-step structure should be avoided if a lengthy regulatory process is anticipated, as the tender offer cannot be consummated until required regulatory approvals have been obtained.
  • As a result, a one-step structure may be preferred in the event of a lengthy regulatory process.

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Footnotes

* Assumes HSR filing is made 3 weeks after signing and clearance is obtained after minimum waiting period

1. Assumes no SEC comments. If the SEC reviews, the timeline could be extended by 1-2 weeks, depending on the nature of SEC review

2. Assumes no SEC comments. If the SEC reviews, the timeline could be extended by 6-7 weeks, depending on the nature of SEC review

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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