Incredible Turnaround! Tencent Urgently Denies $15 Billion Acquisition of South Korean Gaming Giant
▶ Core Plot Reversed in 24 Hours:
Sources revealed: Tencent is studying the acquisition of South Korean gaming company Nexon for $15 billion and has contacted the founder Kim Jung-ju's family.
Market Reaction: Nexon's stock price in Tokyo surged 10% in a single day, adding speculation to Tencent's capital layout.
On June 13, Tencent rushed to extinguish the flames: A source close to Tencent exclusively responded to Beike Finance:
"Never contacted the founder's family, nor considered an acquisition."
→ Key Contradiction: Bloomberg's sources directly conflict with Tencent's official stance, suspected to be a capital probe or shareholder leak.
Three Major Mysteries Ignite Market Speculation
① Mystery of Motivation
Nexon holds global IPs like 'Puzzle Bubble', with annual revenue in China exceeding 10 billion, making it a core income source for Tencent. An acquisition would allow complete control over IP sovereignty, but with a 60% premium on the $15 billion price tag, it's questionable whether Tencent is willing to pay for control.
② Historical Repetition in 2019?
Six years ago, Tencent attempted to acquire Nexon but backed out when the founder priced it at $11 billion (far exceeding the $7 billion market value at the time). This new valuation sets another record high, prompting claims of “capital games reigniting tensions.”
③ South Korean Regulatory Landmines
Kim Jung-ju's heirs hold 67.6% of NXC, which transferred shares to the South Korean government in 2023 due to inheritance tax. Foreign acquisitions of South Korean cultural giants are historically sensitive, with political risks potentially worrying Tencent.
Ultimate Scenario: Who's Directing this “Acquisition Roshomon”?
Possibility A: Capital Testing the Waters
The controlling party uses media to test market reactions, driving short-term stock price arbitrage (Nexon fluctuated over 15% in two days).
Possibility B: Strategic Preemptive Strike
Tencent denies to lower valuation, seeking leverage for subsequent negotiations.
Possibility C: Third-party Interference
#Industry Revelation#: Regardless of the truth behind the acquisition, Tencent and Nexon's deep binding has become a fait accompli.