Blackstone Shells Out $11 Billion for Ultimate Software Group

Preliminary data from Pitchbook shows that $13.56 billion was invested across 23 deals last week, the same deal count as the week before but with $3.3 billion more capital. The largest deal was Blackstone Group’s $11 billion public-to-private buyout of the HR management software provider Ultimate Software Group.

In other M&A news for the week, Foot Locker (NYS: FL) is set to make a $100-million investment into GOAT Group, an online managed marketplace for authentic sneakers. The companies say that over time they will combine efforts across digital and physical retail platforms to create exclusive customer experiences. The deal is just another example of traditional retail finding ways to engage customers digitally and push for e-commerce sales.
 
Domino’s Pizza (NYS: DPZ) is said to be a potential target for Restaurant Brands International (NYS: QSR). Restaurant Brands has been open about wanting to add another brand on top of Burger King, Tim Hortons and Popeyes. According to Cowen Research, the acquisition would accelerate Restaurant Brands’ global brand expansion, while Domino’s technology and practices for delivery can aid Restaurant Brands’ existing franchises.