Disposal

NewMedia SPARK PLC 14 January 2002 14th January 2002 NewMedia SPARK plc announces disposal of Deutsche Borse stake NewMedia SPARK plc ('SPARK') announces that its German subsidiary Sputz AG ('Sputz'), has disposed of its entire shareholding in the Deutsche Borse AG for total proceeds of Euro37.2m (£23.0m). The disposal proceeds are in excess of the book value of this shareholding in SPARK's consolidated accounts, which at 30th September 2001 was £19.9m. Sputz continues to review the prospects for further disposals from its portfolio of non-core assets. Sputz AG had no borrowings prior to the sale of its Deutsche Borse shareholding and hence now holds substantial cash balances. In addition to its core broking activities, Sputz retains shareholdings in Tullett & Tokyo Liberty plc (11%), Lang & Schwarz AG (17%) and several other smaller businesses. SPARK acquired a 54% controlling stake in Sputz in September 2001. SPARK remains confident that this acquisition will add substantial value to SPARK. For further information, please contact: Michael Whitaker / Joel Plasco / Fenella Copas NewMedia SPARK plc +44 (0) 207 851 7777 NewMedia SPARK plc Listed on London's Alternative Investment Market, NewMedia SPARK plc is one of Europe's leading quoted venture capital organisations focused on early stage investments in the telecoms, media and technology sectors. SPARK has a portfolio of investments in Europe and India. SPARK typically invests between £0.5m and £2m and takes an average equity stake of 25% as well as Board level representation. SPARK focuses its investments on software applications, technology and communications, digital media and financial services. SPARK has operations in London, Stockholm and Berlin. For further information see www.newmediaspark.com.
UK 100

Latest directors dealings