Anticipated Takeover Proposal from China for Media Market's Parent Company
Ceconomy in Advanced Talks with JD.com for Potential Takeover
Ceconomy, the parent company of MediaMarkt Saturn, is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com regarding a potential takeover. The talks revolve around a cash offer of 4.60 euros per ordinary share, valuing Ceconomy at approximately 2.23 billion euros ($2.63 billion).
The offer is currently a possibility, as no legally binding agreements have been signed yet. This uncertainty has not deterred Ceconomy's shareholders, with the company's stock surging significantly as a result of the takeover talks. On July 24, 2025, the shares reached an all-time high of approximately 4.29 euros during European trading, marking a jump of over 14% [1].
The rise in Ceconomy's stock can be attributed to ongoing takeover rumors. Significant shareholders, such as the Kellerhals family (29.2%), Meridian Foundation (11%), Haniel family group (16.7%), and Freenet (6.7%), have also benefited from the positive impact on the stock price. These institutional investors, along with others, hold a collective stake of over 60% in Ceconomy [1].
The Kellerhals family, the largest shareholder, has been a constant presence in Ceconomy's history, with the founding family maintaining its substantial 29.2% share [1]. The Meridian Foundation, linked to the wholesale group Metro, also holds a notable stake in Ceconomy [1].
JD.com, a Beijing-based company, is considering a voluntary public takeover offer for Ceconomy. The offer, if finalized, would mark a significant step in the integration of Western and Eastern e-commerce giants [1].
[1] Source: Financial Times, Reuters, Bloomberg, and Ceconomy's official announcement in Düsseldorf.
The potential takeover of Ceconomy by JD.com, if successful, could significantly impact the company's current finance situation, potentially leading to a change in business direction. The current rise in Ceconomy's stock price is a clear indication of investor confidence in the discussions between the two companies.
