- Watford FC has unveiled a new initiative to raise capital using digital equity sales
- Supporters will have the chance to buy a 10% stake in the club
- The scheme with Seedrs and Republic has aimed to attract a broader investor base and offer exclusive benefits
Watford Football Club has unveiled a new initiative aimed at raising capital using digital equity. The soccer club has been exploring various avenues to attract investment
to support the club’s growth and strengthen its community ties, and has decided that going down the route of digital equity sales will attract a broader investor base than a traditional equity raise. The scheme, which is being run in tandem with Seedrs, the European arm of investment platform Republic, will allow fans and investors not only to own a share of the club but also potentially receive tokens and other exclusive offers.
Supporters Given Chance to Own a Slice of Watford
Watford has been eyeing up outside investment as a means of expanding the club and increasing revenue streams, with the funds earmarked for enhancing the playing squad. The club plans to offer approximately 10% of its ownership, valued at £17.5 million, to supporters and investors. The sale will give fans a chance to own a slice of the club they love as well as knowing that they are contributing directly to its development.
Republic, a leading online investment platform with extensive experience in digital equity offerings, particularly in the football sector, will facilitate the investment process. Shares will be available for purchase on Republic’s platform and Seedrs, Republic’s European platform, in sterling or dollars, with no requirement to use cryptocurrency.
🌟 Big News, Sports Fans! 🌟@WatfordFC will soon be opening up ownership to fans and investors for the first time.
Unlock exclusive perks and join them on this exciting journey!
Learn more 🔗 https://t.co/L7AwBGrMLt
Approved by Prosper Capital LLP, FRN 453007 on 04/06/2024 pic.twitter.com/j0lqa3LYud
— Seedrs (@Seedrs) June 4, 2024
The price per share is set at £12.44 ($16), with a minimum investment of four shares on Seedrs and eight shares on Republic. Purchased shares will have a lock-up period of 12 months before they can be traded.
Not Watford’s First Crypto Rodeo
A portion of the raised funds will be directed towards recruiting talent to strengthen the squad, which is hoping for a return to the Premier League next season. Watford believes this project represents a significant step in the future of football finance, allowing both investors and supporters to benefit from the club’s future success.
This isn’t the club’s first brush with crypto; in 2019 the club’s playing shirts were emblazoned with the Bitcoin logo, with Dogecoin replacing it in 2019.
