Private Credit Firms Provide $1.4 Billion in Loans for Centerbridge's MeridianLink Acquisition

Centerbridge Partners is acquiring financial software platform MeridianLink Inc. for $2 billion, with a $1.4 billion private debt financing package led by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Blackstone, Ares Management Corp., Blue Owl Capital Inc., and Antares Capital. The debt includes a $960 million term loan, a $250 million delayed-draw term loan, and a $150 million revolving credit facility, all maturing in seven years at 4.75 percentage points over the benchmark.

Centerbridge Partners, a global investment firm, has announced the acquisition of MeridianLink Inc., a leading provider of modern software platforms for financial institutions and consumer reporting agencies, for approximately $2.0 billion. The transaction, expected to close in the second half of 2025, is an all-cash deal that values MeridianLink at an enterprise value of $2.0 billion. Upon completion, MeridianLink will become a private company.

MeridianLink shareholders will receive $20.00 per share in cash, representing a premium of approximately 26% over the closing price of MeridianLink shares as of August 8, 2025. The transaction is expected to create immediate value for shareholders and position MeridianLink to increase its competitive edge in the rapidly changing technology landscape.

Larry Katz, President and CEO-designate of MeridianLink, expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, "We are thrilled for the next chapter of innovation and growth with our partners at Centerbridge. Together, we will unlock the potential of this company by accelerating product innovation, harnessing the power of AI and data, and enhancing the delivery of exceptional customer experiences."

Centerbridge Partners, with a proven track record of partnering with exceptional companies at the intersection of finance and technology, will leverage its expertise to enhance MeridianLink's platform capabilities and grow its wallet share with new and existing customers. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to shareholder approval and regulatory approvals.

In addition to the all-cash acquisition, Centerbridge has secured a $1.4 billion private debt financing package led by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Blackstone, Ares Management Corp., Blue Owl Capital Inc., and Antares Capital. The debt package includes a $960 million term loan, a $250 million delayed-draw term loan, and a $150 million revolving credit facility, all maturing in seven years at 4.75 percentage points over the benchmark.

The acquisition of MeridianLink by Centerbridge is expected to drive innovation and growth in the financial services sector, leveraging the strengths of both companies to create value for customers and employees.

References:
[1] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250811006732/en/MeridianLink-to-Be-Acquired-by-Centerbridge-Partners-for-%242.0-Billion