Introduction to Audioboom’s Potential Sale
The media company, which produces the official podcast series from Formula 1 Motor Racing, is examining a sale following approaches from potential buyers. Audioboom is working with consultants to explore the terms of a potential takeover.
Background and Current Situation
Audioboom has a market capitalization of almost £100 million after its valuation increased by 157% in the past 12 months. The company has been monitoring discussions with potential buyers, with J Goodwin & Co, a company founded by prominent media industry figure Jonathan Goodwin, understood to be involved in the discussions.
Potential Bidders
Media analysts have cited Fox Corporation and iHeartMedia as potential bidders for Audioboom, although it is unclear whether formal discussions are still ongoing with these or other parties. Any deal would likely require a significant premium to the current share price in order to secure a recommendation from the Audioboom board.
About Audioboom
Audioboom produces podcasts, including the official Formula 1 title F1: Beyond The Grid and F1 Nation, as well as true crime and comedy shows. The company claims its shows are downloaded 135 million times a month by more than 40 million listeners worldwide, making it the fifth-largest podcast publisher in the US.
Distribution and Expansion
Audioboom’s content is distributed via Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify. The company recently announced the appointment of Craig Eastwood, a former executive at British podcast network AudioDelicious, to lead an international expansion that is seen as crucial to Audioboom’s long-term growth strategy.
Previous Sale Explorations
Exploring a sale is not the first time Audioboom has been involved in such a process. In 2020, the company worked with merchant bank The Raine Group to hold talks with bidders, but ultimately called off the process. On Friday afternoon, Audioboom’s shares were trading at 547.5p, up 1.4% on the day.
