"Mediaset and Fininvest have suddenly launched media attacks" (Vivendi)

"Although they have pursued discussions with Vivendi, Mediaset and Fininvest have suddenly launched media attacks which adversely affect the interests and image of Vivendi," said the French group as a footnote during the presentation of its half-year results, on 25/08/2016. Fininvest (which owns Mediaset) claimed in court €570m in damages from the Vivendi group, and demanded that the group respect the Mediaset Premium purchase agreement signed on 08/04/2016.

An initial agreement between the two companies, announced on 08/04/2016, provided that the French group Vivendi would enter in the capital of Mediaset at 3.5%, and would also take a 100% stake in Mediaset Premium, valued at €800m. In exchange, Mediaset would enter into the capital of Vivendi at 3.5%. The target date of the entry into force of the agreement is set for 30/09/2016.

"The agreement, signed on 08/04/2016 (between Mediaset and Vivendi), was then made the object of due diligence performed by Deloitte as contractually agreed. It follows from this audit and Vivendi, before signing, deduced that the figures were not…