JD.com, Ceconomy takeover talks near conclusion

JD.com and Ceconomy are in advanced talks for a potential takeover. Sources indicate that an announcement is possible on Wednesday evening. JD.com has declined comment. Ceconomy is a German electronics retailer, and a takeover by JD.com could have significant implications for the company and the retail industry.

German electronics retailer Ceconomy (CECG.DE) has confirmed it is in advanced negotiations with China's JD.com (9618.HK) regarding a potential takeover. The discussions have been ongoing for some time, with JD.com reportedly nearing a decision on a bid for Ceconomy [1]. The proposed acquisition would value the business at around 2.2 billion euros ($2.59 billion) [1].

Ceconomy, which owns electronics chains MediaMarkt and Saturn, has confirmed that no legally binding agreements have been signed yet and that the outcome of the talks remains uncertain. The company's major shareholders, the Kellerhals family and Duisburg family holding company Haniel, have declined to comment on the matter. Around 36.3% of Ceconomy's shares are in free float [1].

JD.com is primarily interested in Ceconomy's network of stores and warehouses, which would provide a significant boost to its expansion in Europe. Ceconomy has a similar network to offer, with around 1,000 stores in several European countries and a workforce of approximately 50,000 people. The acquisition would give JD.com access to one of the largest online shops for electronic goods in Europe [1].

The potential deal comes at a time when JD.com is expanding its stablecoin offerings. The company has recently registered 'JCOIN' and 'JOYCOIN' in a push to diversify its digital currency portfolio [2].

In a recent interview, Michael Komasinski, the CEO of adtech company Criteo, discussed the company's approach to the retail media landscape, highlighting the importance of partnerships and the use of AI in the industry [3]. While the acquisition of Ceconomy by JD.com is not directly related to Criteo's operations, it is a significant development in the retail sector that could have implications for various players in the industry.

The market reaction to the news has been positive, with Ceconomy shares trading at 4.29 euros on Thursday and jumping on the potential takeover news [1]. The deal, if successful, would mark a significant milestone for JD.com's international expansion efforts.

References:
[1] Reuters. (2024, July 24). Ceconomy confirms it is in advanced talks with China's JD.com. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/ceconomy-confirms-it-is-advanced-talks-with-chinas-jdcom-2025-07-24/
[2] Marketscreener. (2024, July 25). JD.com Unit Registers 'JCOIN' and 'JOYCOIN' in Stablecoin Push. Retrieved from https://www.marketscreener.com/news/jd-com-unit-registers-jcoin-and-joycoin-in-stablecoin-push-ce7c5fdedf8afe26
[3] Adweek. (2024, July 25). Exclusive: 3 Things Michael Komasinski Wants You to Know About Criteo's Retail Media Business. Retrieved from https://www.adweek.com/commerce/exclusive-3-things-michael-komasinski-wants-you-to-know-about-criteos-retail-media-business/