- Watford Football Club, a prominent team in English football, is looking to sell 10% of its equity to investors, which notably includes its dedicated fans.
- This venture is facilitated through crypto and startup investment platforms Republic and Seedrs, aiming to democratize ownership among a broader audience.
- Scott Duxbury, the Chairman and CEO of Watford FC, emphasized the club’s commitment to growth and the importance of including fans in the ownership structure through this digital equity opportunity.
Watford FC is pioneering the sale of equity shares via digital platforms, opening ownership to fans and investors worldwide, aiming to raise substantial capital for club advancements.
Watford Launches 10% Equity Sale
In an ambitious move, Watford FC has announced its intention to sell a 10% equity stake, hoping to raise approximately £17.5 million ($22.3 million). The club’s total valuation stands at £175 million ($223 million), reflecting its significant market presence and strategic potential.
The sale is structured to be accessible, with shares priced at £12.44 ($15.88) each. Investors on Seedrs can purchase a minimum of four shares for £49.76 ($63.51), while those using Republic need to acquire at least eight shares, totaling £99.52 ($127.04).
The funds generated from this equity sale will be directed towards enhancing the club’s brand, recruiting talented players, and investing in superior training and coaching facilities. These initiatives are part of Watford’s broader strategy to enhance team performance and elevate its competitive status back to the Premier League.
Broadening Investment Horizons
Watford FC’s collaboration with Republic is a strategic decision to attract a diverse range of investors, extending beyond the conventional investment sphere. This initiative also plans to offer exclusive perks and future tradable tokens to investors, enhancing the value proposition.
Andrew Durgee, President of Republic, remarked, “We are excited to introduce this landmark sports investment opportunity on our platform. This digital equity sale is the largest to offer true ownership shares in an English football club, reflecting our commitment to making sports ownership accessible to both fans and professional investors.”
This equity offering allows fans to become part-owners of Watford FC, without voting rights but with potential dividend returns, thereby merging emotional and financial investment opportunities.
Conclusion
The opportunity to own equity in Watford FC via digital platforms is groundbreaking, offering fans and investors a tangible stake in the club’s future. This initiative not only democratizes investment but also aligns financial interests with the passion of the club’s supporter base. As Watford positions itself for future growth and aims for Premier League re-entry, this equity sale could set precedents in sports and digital investment landscapes.
