Money Games is a riveting tale of one of the most successful buyout
deals ever: the acquisition and turnaround of what used to be Korea's
largest bank by the American firm Newbridge Capital.
Full of intrigue and suspense, this insider's account is told by the
chief architect of the deal itself, the celebrated author and private
equity investor Weijian Shan. With billions of dollars at stake, and the
nation's economic future on the line, Newbridge Capital sought to become
the first foreign firm in history to take control of one of Korea's most
beloved financial institutions.
In a proud country still reeling from a humiliating International
Monetary Fund bailout in the Asian Financial Crisis, Newbridge Capital
had to muster every ounce of skill, determination, and patience to bring
the deal to closing.
Shan takes readers inside the battle to win control of the bank--a
delicate, often exasperating process that meant balancing the goals of
Newbridge with those of the government, bank employees, and Korea's
powerful industrial titans.
Finally, the author describes how Newbridge transformed and rebuilt the
struggling bank into a shining example of modern banking--as well as a
massively profitable investment. In the secret world of private equity,
few buyouts have been written about with such clarity, detail, and
insight--and none with such completeness, covering not only the
dealmaking but also the transformation and eventual exit of the
investment.
For anyone who has ever wondered how private equity investors strike
bargains, turn around businesses, and create immense value--or anyone
interested in a captivating story of high-stakes money-making--this book
is a must-read.
