Sandals reportedly in US$6-billion talks with Royal Caribbean

Shares of Royal Caribbean Group fell 6.1 per cent on Tuesday after the Financial Times (FT) reported that the cruise operator stands close to a deal to acquire a majority stake in Sandals Resorts International, in a transaction that would value the Jamaican resort chain at more than US$6 billion.

FT, citing people familiar with the matter, said Royal Caribbean would become the controlling shareholder, while members of the family of founder Gordon 'Butch' Stewart would retain an equity interest. The report added that Royal Caribbean could eventually move to full ownership, and that the companies could announce a deal within days, although negotiations continue and may not produce an agreement.

CNBC, citing a single person familiar with the matter, gave a different structure on Tuesday, reporting that Royal Caribbean is nearing a US$3-billion deal for a 50 per cent equity stake in Sandals, which would also imply a valuation of about US$6 billion. CNBC likewise said the talks could fail.