Chinese firms are getting ready for discount deals in Europe, where the coronavirus pandemic has sent companies scrambling for cash to stay in business.
Bankers have recently seen a spike in requests from Chinese firms and funds for proposals on targets in Europe, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private. Many of the potential acquirers are state-owned enterprises, they said. These preliminary talks come as listed company valuations have tumbled along with the MSCI Europe Index, which tracks the continent’s developed market performance. The index slumped 23% this year in the worst rout since the global financial crisis.
