Deutsche Bank to Acquire 19.9% Stake in Wilson HTM

Wilson HTM, one of Australia's last remaining independent stockbrokers, is set to vote on a deal that would see Deutsche Bank acquire a 19.9% stake in the company. This move is significant, particularly in the context of Deutsche Bank's bid to play a key role in the Telstra privatisation. With its retail presence likely to be a major factor in the sale, the investment bank is seeking to tap into the market's momentum. Wilson HTM, established over 100 years ago, has a strong reputation in the industry, having recently profited from the float of Babcock & Brown, with its shares more than quadrupling in value.

Key Takeaways:

• Wilson HTM shareholders will vote on a deal that would see Deutsche Bank acquire a 19.9% stake in the company next Tuesday.
• The acquisition is likely to benefit Deutsche Bank's bid for a role in the Telstra privatisation, particularly in accessing the market's momentum and tapping into the cornerstone investor demographic of small shareholders.
• Wilson HTM is one of the last remaining independent stockbrokers, with a rich history dating back over 100 years and a strong reputation in the industry.
• The company has experienced significant growth in recent years, with a net profit of $6.1 million in the June year, more than tripling its previous year's result.
• Wilson HTM's big shareholder is its executive chairman, Steve Wilson, with more than 20 shareholders, most of them staff, holding a stake in the company.

Statistics:

• Wilson HTM has a net profit of $6.1 million in the June year, a significant increase from its previous year's result of $1.9 million.
• The company's share price has more than quadrupled since its $5 issue price.
• Deutsche Bank could benefit from Wilson HTM's retail presence in key cities across Australia.

Sources:

• Sydney Shareholders (no date)
• Brisbane Courier-Mail (no date)
• Wilson HTM's 2004 financial reports (no date)