• Werksmans advised on tax related aspects of the winning BEE Deal of the Year, Exxaro Resources’ acquisition of manganese assets from Ntsimbintle and OMH Mauritius.

This deal comprised, Exxaro Resources’ acquisition of manganese assets from Ntsimbintle and OMH Mauritius. The acquisition of premier manganese assets represents a defining transformational transaction for both the company, the global mining sector and at the same time advances South Africa’s empowerment agenda. The deal, valued at R11,67 billion, marks a strategic pivot for Exxaro, accelerating its transition from coal to a diversified minerals and energy solutions business. Ernest Mazansky, Director in our Tax practice area, advised Ntsimbintle Holdings on all tax related aspects.

• We secured first place in a tie with Webber Wentzel, as legal advisers by deal flow for Mergers & Acquisitions – BEE.
• We secured third place as legal advisers by deal flow for Mergers & Acquisitions.
• We secured fourth place as legal advisers by deal value for Mergers & Acquisitions.

A re-cap of our shortlisted deals include:

• BEE Deal of The Year

MultiChoice Group (Canal+) to a consortium of BEE parties – a 51% stake in LicenceCo

Wendy Rosenberg, Director and Head of our Digital Media & Electronic Communications practice area, together with Tebogo Sibidla, Director and Samantha Sinden, Director, advised MultiChoice on broadcasting matters in this transaction.

• PE Deal of the Year

STANLIB Infrastructure Investments’ acquisition of a minority stake in Africa Data Centre (Cassava Technologies)

Kevin Trudgeon, Director, together with Rudi Claassen, Candidate Attorney and Caitlin Steytler, Candidate Attorney advised on M&A related aspects of this acquisition and Jenni Darling, Director together with Ndzalama Dumisa, Associate and Lloyrenzo September, Candidate Attorney advised on debt related aspects.