Acquisition

Barton Gold is acquiring the Wudinna Gold Project for A$5.5 million. The deal involves A$500,000 cash and A$5 million in Barton shares. Cobra Resources’ shareholder vote is set for July 24, 2025, with strong initial support. This acquisition will leverage Barton’s central Gawler Craton infrastructure for future production growth.

Xiaohongshu has officially denied rumors of an acquisition by Alibaba, labeling the speculation as “groundless.” This isn’t the first time such rumors have surfaced, with similar claims made in 2019. Xiaohongshu, founded in 2013, has seen its valuation reportedly surge to $26 billion, a significant increase from its previous $17 billion valuation at the end of 2023. Alibaba has not yet commented on the reports.

Dongshan Precision plans to acquire Taiwan’s Source Photonics for up to $850 million to expand its optical communications business. The deal, which aims to integrate Source Photonics’ vertically integrated operations and high-speed optical module capabilities, is pending approval from Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs. The Ministry has stated it has not yet received an application and will conduct a rigorous review, citing the need for an investment plan amendment.

Wabtec has acquired Evident’s Inspection Technologies division for $1.78 billion. This strategic move significantly expands Wabtec’s Digital Intelligence segment, integrating advanced non-destructive testing and remote visual inspection technologies. The acquisition is expected to enhance customer productivity, reliability, and safety, accelerate growth, and double Wabtec’s addressable market for its Digital Intelligence business to $16 billion.

Torrent Pharmaceuticals is set to acquire a controlling stake in JB Pharma from KKR for INR 25,689 crores. This strategic move, followed by a merger, aims to significantly expand Torrent’s presence in the Indian pharmaceutical market. It will bolster their chronic segment expertise, introduce international CDMO capabilities, and enhance market share and operational synergies. The deal also diversifies Torrent’s business into the promising CDMO sector.

HPE and Juniper Networks have reached an agreement with the DOJ, clearing the path for HPE’s acquisition of Juniper. This deal, valued at approximately $14 billion, aims to reshape the networking landscape. Combining HPE’s strengths in areas like AI and hybrid cloud with Juniper’s networking expertise will create a modern network architecture tailored for AI workloads, fostering competition and accelerating innovation in the market. As part of the settlement, HPE will divest its global Instant On business.

OFA Group (Nasdaq: OFAL) plans to acquire a 60% stake in Aspire Homes Realty and RateDNA, a real estate and lending platform, to expand its revenue streams. This strategic move aims to leverage the acquired team’s expertise and drive growth in residential real estate and specialty lending markets. The acquisition, expected to offer integrated services and investor-focused mortgage products, is subject to risks outlined in forward-looking statements.

Four Corners Property Trust (FCPT) has acquired four Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen locations for $14.7 million. The net-leased properties, located in Kentucky, Indiana, and Virginia, are corporate-operated with long-term, triple net leases. The acquisition, completed at a consistent cap rate, aligns with FCPT’s strategy of expanding its portfolio of quality restaurant and retail assets and securing reliable, long-term revenue.

Volvo CE will acquire Swecon’s operations in Sweden, Germany, and the Baltics for 7 billion SEK, including Entrack. This strategic acquisition, expected to close in H2 2025, aims to strengthen Volvo CE’s retail presence in key European markets. The deal encompasses all Swecon operations, including sales, rentals, and service, with approximately 1,400 employees. This move will allow Volvo CE to control most of its European business, enhancing customer satisfaction.

Hillhouse Capital is reportedly leading a potential acquisition of Starbucks China, with a management roadshow recently completed. Goldman Sachs values the business at $5-6 billion. The deal follows prior reports of Starbucks seeking strategic investors. Starbucks China generated $3 billion in revenue in 2024, but profit and growth slowed. The acquisition is driven by competition from domestic brands like Luckin Coffee, prompting Starbucks to expand into lower-tier cities and rural markets.