Amazon exercises option to acquire direct stake in Valu

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Amazon has exercised its option to acquire a direct equity stake in Valu, the consumer finance arm of EFG Holding, following the company’s listing on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX).

The global e-commerce giant will now own approximately 3.95 per cent of Valu’s share capital, executing the transaction through the EGX’s block trade mechanism at a price of EGP 6.041 per share. The stake purchase is set to occur during the first trading session of Valu’s shares, after receiving the necessary regulatory approvals.

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The agreement stems from a 2022 deal in which Amazon invested $10m in global depositary receipts (GDRs) of EFG Holding. As part of that deal, Amazon secured the right to convert its investment into a 4.255 per cent stake in Valu, contingent on a qualified liquidity event — a milestone now met with Valu’s public market debut.

EFG Holding Group CEO Karim Awad hailed Amazon’s decision as a strategic endorsement of EFG’s capacity to build and scale innovative ventures in the region.

“We are proud to witness Amazon’s decision to acquire a direct stake in Valu,” Awad said. “This milestone underscores our commitment to delivering long-term value and highlights Valu’s role in advancing financial inclusion and digital transformation in Egypt.”

Valu CEO Walid Hassouna echoed the sentiment, emphasising the company’s customer-centric approach and adaptability in a dynamic financial landscape.

“This milestone is a powerful testament to the resilience of our business model,” Hassouna said.

“We remain committed to empowering individuals and businesses through innovative financial solutions.”

Maged El Ayouti, co-head of Investment Banking at EFG Hermes, credited the firm’s advisory role in facilitating the Amazon transaction and guiding Valu’s path to the public market.

“From securing Amazon’s strategic investment to preparing for Valu’s EGX debut, we’re proud to support the company’s transformative growth,” he said.

Valu’s listing on the EGX was formally completed on May 21, 2025, with shares becoming available for trading starting June 23, 2025.

EFG Hermes acted as the sole financial advisor to both EFG Holding and Valu on the transaction.