By Micah Jonah, April 8, 2026
Billionaire investor, Bill Ackman, through his Pershing Square investment firm, has proposed a $64 billion takeover of Universal Music Group (UMG), offering €30.40 ($35) per share—a 78% premium over the last closing price. The deal values the company at 55.75 billion euros.
Ackman’s proposal, a mix of cash and shares, does not seek to replace CEO Lucian Grainge, but plans to add new directors, including former Hollywood agent, Michael Ovitz as board chair, and two Pershing Square representatives.
UMG, home to global stars like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Kendrick Lamar, has struggled to compete with streaming services and manage AI-driven disruptions in the music industry. Ackman has been a UMG shareholder since 2021 and previously pushed for a US listing to boost liquidity and share price.
The stock reacted positively: UMG shares rose 13% in Amsterdam, while key shareholders Bollore Group and Vivendi gained 5% and 10% respectively. Pershing currently holds a 4.7% stake, making it UMG’s fourth-largest shareholder.
If approved, Ackman’s SPARC Holdings would merge with UMG, forming a Nevada corporation listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Analysts see the move as a potential strategic step to strengthen UMG amid streaming competition and AI-related challenges.
