Key Takeaways
- Sector: Technology Software & Gaming.
- Geography: United States.
Analysis
The financing, led by Ares Management Corporation, comprises a $5 billion term loan and a $500 million revolving credit facility. This move reflects a broader trend where private credit is increasingly filling the void left by traditional syndicated loans amid market volatility.
Clearlake's acquisition of Dun & Bradstreet, a leading provider of business decisioning data and analytics, was announced on March 24, 2025. Under the agreement, shareholders will receive $9.15 per share in cash, valuing the equity at $4.1 billion and the total transaction, including debt, at $7.7 billion.
The deal includes a "go-shop" provision, allowing Dun & Bradstreet to solicit alternative proposals. However, the complexity and scale of the transaction make competing bids unlikely.
This acquisition aligns with Clearlake's strategy to expand its footprint in the data analytics sector and underscores the growing role of private credit in large-scale leveraged buyouts.
Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is a well-established American company that provides commercial data, analytics, and insights for businesses. It is especially known for helping companies improve their performance through data-driven decision-making.