Strathmore Group unveils details of plan for Commsoft

By Nicholas Bryant

Friday 11th August 2000

Phil Norman

Internet and technology-based venture capitalist Strathmore Group has spelt out the detail of its role in the future of Commsoft.

Telecommunications technology company Commsoft, which is 38% owned by Strathmore, is due to list on both the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges on September 13.

In a complex buyback deal, in which Strathmore will buy 15% of its own shares, existing Strathmore shareholders will get one $A1.10 Commsoft share for every 4.25 Strathmore shares they sell back to the company.

Strathmore announced the buyback three weeks ago and issued a don't sell notice at the time. That announcement irked some investors as it gave no other detail than that it was related to Commsoft's future. While they suspected they would be given some preference to buy shares in Commsoft, they wanted details of the deal and of the company.

Both were forthcoming this week, with a complete prospectus on view at the Commsoft's website Ðwww.commsoftgroup.comð.

The preferential entitlement to Strathmore investors for Commsoft stock comes in the form of a minimum option to subscribe for 500 Commsoft shares at a rate of one share for every 75 Strathmore shares held. New Zealand Funds Management has offered to pay $A0.11 a share for those investors not wishing to exercise their preferential purchasing rights.

Strathmore executive chairman Phil Norman said the preferential entitlement was a tangible way of rewarding Strathmore shareholders for their support. Shareholders on Strathmore's register on August 11 will be able to participate in the entitlement of Commsoft shares. Those on the register on August 18 will be eligible to participate in the buy back.

Commsoft directors, cornerstone shareholders Cullen Investments and Advantage Group, and institutional investor New Zealand Funds Management have agreed to accept the buyback.

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