Potential takeover/new investor?

[SteveHFC]

Champions League final 2026 here we come.

[SHODAN]

So with this money are we now, finally, in a position where if we are competing with Hearts/Aberdeen for the same player we will always be able to offer the better financial package?

That's all I care about.

[Haymaker]

Champions League final 2026 here we come.

Booked my flight already :hyper

[VoltaireHibs]

Im looking forward to bbc sportsounds take. They wont understand the financials and will be wholly negative about the implications.

Until Rangers become a multi-club team, then it will be a golden era for Scottish football!

[Spike Mandela]

Not much of a fanfare. Low key. Guess the big splash will be after the AGM.

[mcohibs]

So with this money are we now, finally, in a position where if we are competing with Hearts/Aberdeen for the same player we will always be able to offer the better financial package?

That's all I care about.

More than both of those peasants combined [emoji857]

[Chipper1875]

Not much of a fanfare. Low key. Guess the big splash will be after the AGM.

That’s only the first hurdle . If HSL and the gentleman is it Leslie ? Vote against it, it wouldn’t go through. I’m guessing hibs have done their homework and will have the casting vote , so it’s approved

[flash]

So with this money are we now, finally, in a position where if we are competing with Hearts/Aberdeen for the same player we will always be able to offer the better financial package?

That's all I care about.

We might not always want to.

Still important to try and get value for money.

[Ringothedog]

That’s only the first hurdle . If HSL and the gentleman is it Leslie ? Vote against it, it wouldn’t go through. I’m guessing hibs have done their homework and will have the casting vote , so it’s approved

Would that not only happen if new shares were being issued, if they are buying existing shares then there is no problem and it will happen

[Chipper1875]

So with this money are we now, finally, in a position where if we are competing with Hearts/Aberdeen for the same player we will always be able to offer the better financial package?

That's all I care about.
I believe initially the investment is going on a dome at east mains and FF corporate and safe standing

[leith lynx]

The Paddy Power advert becomes reality!
(Can be found on YouTube)

[Carheenlea]

Not much of a fanfare. Low key. Guess the big splash will be after the AGM.

Are we not meant to now bang on relentlessly about being a “big club” and stuff like that to anyone in earshot?

[Joe6-2]

The Paddy Power advert becomes reality!
(Can be found on YouTube)

I thought that too!

[Chipper1875]

Would that not only happen if new shares were being issued, if they are buying existing shares then there is no problem and it will happen

That’s my understanding, hence an AGM. I don’t think existing shareholders will get opportunity to buy shares, therefore, holding diluted. In reality only an issue for HSL and Mr Leslie. Need to wait for papers to come out to see actually see the resolutions .

[Ronniekirk]

Are we not meant to now bang on relentlessly about being a “big club” and stuff like that to anyone in earshot?
It’s only an initial investment of around six million a chunk of which will be used to upgrade East mains and the Stadium Will be good to get more information at the A G M and then assume will be more press releases after that
Looking forward to see how this pans out

[Col2]

Spare a thought for Ewan Murray. Out thoughts go out to him and his cardigans 👀

[Hibs90]

I believe initially the investment is going on a dome at east mains and FF corporate and safe standing

Get a winning team on the park and those things will pay for themselves in prize monies.

[ruthven_raiders]

Get a winning team on the park and those things will pay for themselves in prize monies.

But isn't this why there have been negotiations with Sfa and how the money is being invested, infrastructure and long term projects rather than throwing money at buying players?

[theonlywayisup]

https://www.hibernianfc.co.uk/article/club-statement-dual-interest-dispensation-request

Here we go

Two comments!

Well done both parties for having a number of meetings between the two parties without the conversation being replayed in the media.

I also note that we've agreed to certain undertakings and commitments at the request of the governing body. Wonder what these are :hmmm:.

[mutley]

This is fantastic news, and an AGM that I might actually attend


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[VoltaireHibs]

Two comments!

Well done both parties for having a number of meetings between the two parties without the conversation being replayed in the media.

I also note that we've agreed to certain undertakings and commitments at the request of the governing body. Wonder what these are :hmmm:.


We have to guarantee we will not get ideas above our station.

[Hibs90]

But isn't this why there have been negotiations with Sfa and how the money is being invested, infrastructure and long term projects rather than throwing money at buying players?

Well if this is the case that the money will be predominantly used on infrastructure the the club will need to make it clear at the AGM to lower peoples expectations.

[Greencore]

Mrs foleys baby boy!!!!!

[Ringothedog]

That’s my understanding, hence an AGM. I don’t think existing shareholders will get opportunity to buy shares, therefore, holding diluted. In reality only an issue for HSL and Mr Leslie. Need to wait for papers to come out to see actually see the resolutions .

If it’s new shares then it would be an EGM not an AGM, if it’s existing shares being sold/transferred then there is no dilution of anyone shares. The only change would be a reduction in the sellers share ownership

[CockneyRebel]

The Paddy Power advert becomes reality!
(Can be found on YouTube)

We're in the money!

I hope it makes a difference on the park eventually.

[ruthven_raiders]

Well if this is the case that the money will be predominantly used on infrastructure the the club will need to make it clear at the AGM to lower peoples expectations.

True enough, hopefully will become clearer how it will all work, sharing ideas, player movement etc, maybe more finance for player recruitment in the future once sponsorship and commercial activities increase...

[Pagan Hibernia]

If it’s new shares then it would be an EGM not an AGM, if it’s existing shares being sold/transferred then there is no dilution of anyone shares. The only change would be a reduction in the sellers share ownership

Hopefully the latter. I don't want supporters stake in the club, be it HSL or individual, further diluted from what they are now.

[Chipper1875]

If it’s new shares then it would be an EGM not an AGM, if it’s existing shares being sold/transferred then there is no dilution of anyone shares. The only change would be a reduction in the sellers share ownership

Good stuff . Suprised Bydand Sports need approval of other shareholders to sell some of their shares .

[mcohibs]

But isn't this why there have been negotiations with Sfa and how the money is being invested, infrastructure and long term projects rather than throwing money at buying players?

There will have been conversations with the SFA to layout that the nature of the investment will be sustainable, with a focus on infrastructure etc. and I believe to help our cause with those discussions, the initial £6m has been proposed to be allocated to East Mains etc.

Make no mistake though, Foley’s aim here, as he’s stated, is to make us the third force in Scottish football and making a dent in Europe. That will undoubtedly involve a significant increase in transfer and wage budget.

[Bristolhibby]

Finally a pre season away at Bournemouth. 1.5 hours drive South of me.

In all seriousness. Great news.

J

[AlbertK86]

Spare a thought for Ewan Murray. Out thoughts go out to him and his cardigans [emoji102]

Hopefully somebody asks him on social media - he is a complete plum who typifies and oozes Hertz self importance and arrogance


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Lago]

There will have been conversations with the SFA to layout that the nature of the investment will be sustainable, with a focus on infrastructure etc. and I believe to help our cause with those discussions, the initial £6m has been proposed to be allocated to East Mains etc.

Make no mistake though, Foley’s aim here, as he’s stated, is to make us the third force in Scottish football and making a dent in Europe. That will undoubtedly involve a significant increase in transfer and wage budget.
Good to know

[Ringothedog]

Good stuff . Suprised Bydand Sports need approval of other shareholders to sell some of their shares .

It’s not approval it’s being ratified out of courtesy to all other shareholders.

[O'Rourke3]

Will we owe it to ourselves? Asking for a friend.

Sent from my SM-G990B using Tapatalk

[Caversham Green]

The club's statement says the proposal will be shared and ratified at the AGM. That suggests that it can't be opposed, otherwise they would have said the proposal would be put to the shareholders for approval.

That in turn suggests that it's existing shares being sold rather than new ones being issued. What remans to be seen is how the money gets into the club since it's essentially a transaction between the sellers (presumably the Gordons) and the Black Knight group.

Edit: Ringothedog beat me to it.

[Chipper1875]

It’s not approval it’s being ratified out of courtesy to all other shareholders.

That’s good news

[Springbank]

The route into European Group Stage football next season is not by finishing in 3rd place this season

It is by winning the Scottish Cup

That's the goal

[hibsbollah]

There has been a great deal of interest and speculation around this opportunity, we wanted to deliver the news as fully and transparently as possible. In order to achieve this goal, we have worked through negotiations and rigorous steps towards the final outcome. We are now coming to the end of this phase, one that will benefit the long-term future of Hibernian FC.

Through very positive conversations with the Scottish FA in regard to their rules and regulations, specifically Article 13, and following a series of meetings, we can confirm their approval of our minority investment proposal. With that approval, we have also signed agreements between Black Knight Football Club and Hibernian FC.

This proposal will be shared at the Club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in February, which is the final step of ratifying the minority investment. The AGM will be in February, details on location and timing will be shared and we look forward to seeing and updating all shareholders.

The Gordon Family would like to thank our Chief Executive, Ben Kensell, for his tireless work and efforts over the last eight months. Ben has played an integral role throughout this process, completing extensive due diligence, and ensuring the growth this investment will help us achieve.

Ron’s vision, and long-term plan, included bringing in a minority partner, like Black Knight, which would help us achieve our goals. We share the same values and ambitions as Black Knight in our partnership. Our continued commitment to building a winning and successful club is unwavering.

Over the past 12 months we have invested in the Club and made positive strides. We have improved the infrastructure at Easter Road and HTC, grown our club-controlled income, increased the First Team player budget, and driven the Club forward commercially.

The year ahead includes developing the space inside the Famous Five Stand, introducing safe standing, and continuing to make HTC a high-performance training centre. We take pride in the journey and progress of this Football Club; our commitment remains to meet the high expectations of Ron and our supporters and achieve sustained success on and off the pitch.

Lastly, we would like to thank every one of you, our Hibernian FC supporters. The last 12 months have been challenging for the family, and we are immensely grateful for your outpouring of love and support. Our sincerest gratitude to Ben Kensell and Malcolm McPherson for their leadership and to the entire staff for their unity in helping the Club during this difficult time.

We see the bright future ahead, one we can all be proud of.

The Gordon Family

[big gogs]

We're in the money!

I hope it makes a difference on the park eventually.
Has is made a difference now ,three players from Bournemouth already,would we have got them if we didn’t have the tie up.

[Greensunshine]

Fantastic news. Onwards and hopefully upwards. Well done to all involved, now let’s get some results were it matters, on the park!

[Sheffhibee]

There has been a great deal of interest and speculation around this opportunity, we wanted to deliver the news as fully and transparently as possible. In order to achieve this goal, we have worked through negotiations and rigorous steps towards the final outcome. We are now coming to the end of this phase, one that will benefit the long-term future of Hibernian FC.

Through very positive conversations with the Scottish FA in regard to their rules and regulations, specifically Article 13, and following a series of meetings, we can confirm their approval of our minority investment proposal. With that approval, we have also signed agreements between Black Knight Football Club and Hibernian FC.

This proposal will be shared at the Club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in February, which is the final step of ratifying the minority investment. The AGM will be in February, details on location and timing will be shared and we look forward to seeing and updating all shareholders.

The Gordon Family would like to thank our Chief Executive, Ben Kensell, for his tireless work and efforts over the last eight months. Ben has played an integral role throughout this process, completing extensive due diligence, and ensuring the growth this investment will help us achieve.

Ron’s vision, and long-term plan, included bringing in a minority partner, like Black Knight, which would help us achieve our goals. We share the same values and ambitions as Black Knight in our partnership. Our continued commitment to building a winning and successful club is unwavering.


Over the past 12 months we have invested in the Club and made positive strides. We have improved the infrastructure at Easter Road and HTC, grown our club-controlled income, increased the First Team player budget, and driven the Club forward commercially.

The year ahead includes developing the space inside the Famous Five Stand, introducing safe standing, and continuing to make HTC a high-performance training centre. We take pride in the journey and progress of this Football Club; our commitment remains to meet the high expectations of Ron and our supporters and achieve sustained success on and off the pitch.

Lastly, we would like to thank every one of you, our Hibernian FC supporters. The last 12 months have been challenging for the family, and we are immensely grateful for your outpouring of love and support. Our sincerest gratitude to Ben Kensell and Malcolm McPherson for their leadership and to the entire staff for their unity in helping the Club during this difficult time.

We see the bright future ahead, one we can all be proud of.

The Gordon Family
:flag::flag::flag:Class from the GordonFamily

[.Sean.]

There has been a great deal of interest and speculation around this opportunity, we wanted to deliver the news as fully and transparently as possible. In order to achieve this goal, we have worked through negotiations and rigorous steps towards the final outcome. We are now coming to the end of this phase, one that will benefit the long-term future of Hibernian FC.

Through very positive conversations with the Scottish FA in regard to their rules and regulations, specifically Article 13, and following a series of meetings, we can confirm their approval of our minority investment proposal. With that approval, we have also signed agreements between Black Knight Football Club and Hibernian FC.

This proposal will be shared at the Club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in February, which is the final step of ratifying the minority investment. The AGM will be in February, details on location and timing will be shared and we look forward to seeing and updating all shareholders.

The Gordon Family would like to thank our Chief Executive, Ben Kensell, for his tireless work and efforts over the last eight months. Ben has played an integral role throughout this process, completing extensive due diligence, and ensuring the growth this investment will help us achieve.

Ron’s vision, and long-term plan, included bringing in a minority partner, like Black Knight, which would help us achieve our goals. We share the same values and ambitions as Black Knight in our partnership. Our continued commitment to building a winning and successful club is unwavering.

Over the past 12 months we have invested in the Club and made positive strides. We have improved the infrastructure at Easter Road and HTC, grown our club-controlled income, increased the First Team player budget, and driven the Club forward commercially.

The year ahead includes developing the space inside the Famous Five Stand, introducing safe standing, and continuing to make HTC a high-performance training centre. We take pride in the journey and progress of this Football Club; our commitment remains to meet the high expectations of Ron and our supporters and achieve sustained success on and off the pitch.

Lastly, we would like to thank every one of you, our Hibernian FC supporters. The last 12 months have been challenging for the family, and we are immensely grateful for your outpouring of love and support. Our sincerest gratitude to Ben Kensell and Malcolm McPherson for their leadership and to the entire staff for their unity in helping the Club during this difficult time.

We see the bright future ahead, one we can all be proud of.

The Gordon Family
Finally a bit of confirmation about the hospitality inside the Famous Five aswell

[linlithgowhibbie]

Champions League final 2026 here we come.

Where is your ambition? It is 2025!:thumbsup:

[stoneyburn hibs]

Can we now sell Stetsons as well as pegs ?

[SickBoy32]

Well if this is the case that the money will be predominantly used on infrastructure the the club will need to make it clear at the AGM to lower peoples expectations.

Agreed

If any club in Scotland doesn’t need infrastructure improvements, it’s probably us

[007]

The charity club's chugger victims won't be taking it well and will be trying to put on a brave face by slagging it off claiming we're a feeder club etc. If it means we get more players like Emiliano then no downside to that.

[One Day Soon]

Meh. Where's the ****ing hotel proposal?

[Nicho87]

Corners filled in at last

More places to boo

Hello jambos, enjoy it while you can

[Brightside]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

[Bridge hibs]

I believe initially the investment is going on a dome at east mains and FF corporate and safe standing

Dome, are we signing Shankland ? 😁

[HoboHarry]

Dome, are we signing Shankland ? 😁
It's not a dome - that's a helipad for Foley landing his helicopter.....

[JimBHibees]

Indoor full size pitch would be an excellent investment imo

[lyonhibs]

Get a winning team on the park and those things will pay for themselves in prize monies.

The levels of prize money on "offer" in the competitions we compete in year-in, year out are small change relatively speaking. I do agree that the Men's XI footballing department should always be the board's top priority in terms of vision and ambition focus etc.

[superfurryhibby]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

Made clear? By whom?

As far as I’m aware there have been no plans released discussing the investment and how it will be used?

[SickBoy32]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

Investment strategy - that is exactly what this whole thing is.

Glad you’ve been paying attention 👍

[Nicho87]

BBC Scotland sport football

Top story

Cardiff interested in turnbull

Deary Deary me

They are going to get a shock aren’t they

[superfurryhibby]

Investment strategy - that is exactly what this whole thing is.

Glad you’ve been paying attention 👍

Please explain what you think that means?

[SickBoy32]

Please explain what you think that means?

I think that the ultimate aim of both the Gordons and Foley is to use the club as a vehicle to make money from, primarily by increasing the value of the club.

Makes sense in that regard for the focus to be off the field, with on field success an afterthought.

Hopefully we’ll have something to shout about in the next couple year though with a decent side on the park

[GloryGlory]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

Exactly. The Gordons have spoken about the need to increase SUSTAINABLE income from the start. This investment into mainly infra is part of that strategy. We could spend the investment on a couple of players, including signing on fees and wages, but would be back to square one within a couple of years.

[superfurryhibby]

I think that the ultimate aim of both the Gordons and Foley is to use the club as a vehicle to make money from, primarily by increasing the value of the club.

Makes sense in that regard for the focus to be off the field, with on field success an afterthought.

Hopefully we’ll have something to shout about in the next couple year though with a decent side on the park

I would think that on-field success will surely underpin any longer term off-field growth. A poorly performing football team will not provide the backdrop for huge business growth commercially.

[Aldo]

The bitterness and seethe is strong this afternoon.

We are essentially cheating according to some I know! [emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787]

[JimBHibees]

BBC Scotland sport football

Top story

Cardiff interested in turnbull

Deary Deary me

They are going to get a shock aren’t they

No they just don't care about us

[Slim Shady]

Finally a bit of confirmation about the hospitality inside the Famous Five aswell

Albion Bar Style, New club shop, new offices and ticket office. :top marks

[Nicho87]

Hearing hibs are now prepping a bid for Shankland

1 million quid and sell on of 3%

This is fun

[ScottB]

I think that the ultimate aim of both the Gordons and Foley is to use the club as a vehicle to make money from, primarily by increasing the value of the club.

Makes sense in that regard for the focus to be off the field, with on field success an afterthought.

Hopefully we’ll have something to shout about in the next couple year though with a decent side on the park

It might have been the Gordon’s aim, to increase the value of their investment, but it’s not Foley’s.

For Foley, we’re part of the multi club model that’s goal is to acquire / develop players for clubs ‘higher’ up the chain, with Bournemouth at the top. Hibs don’t need to be especially profitable to achieve that, beyond managing any FFP concerns, nor do we need to be especially successful, though you’d hope that would come as a consequence of a stronger squad full of young players with potential etc.

I can definitely see money being spent on infrastructure, because if we’re going to be temporarily looking after players that are intended to become £50 million Bournemouth starters, then they’ll be wanting the best possible environment for them to train and develop in.

We’ll no doubt spend on players as well, but again, I would assume, with that development angle in mind. Perhaps a more successful go at what we were already trying to do when we went out buying the likes of Melkerson. I’d be surprised if Foley and co would sanction us going out and spending big money (in our own terms) on a player like, say, Boyle, now, because an expensive near 30 something has little, if any, value, in the wider group.

[TrinityHFC]

If it’s new shares then it would be an EGM not an AGM, if it’s existing shares being sold/transferred then there is no dilution of anyone shares. The only change would be a reduction in the sellers share ownership

Nothing to stop additional resolutions at an AGM as well as the usual business. There are no EGMs anymore, they are GMs.

Anyway, doesn’t sound like additional shares are being issued.

Incidentally for all the talk about HSL being diluted by Ron they’ve got what looks like a pretty valuable chunk of shares now. That’s the thing when an owner wants the control the additional shares he purchased at the time brings but it has increased the value for all shareholders even if they own a bit less percentage wise.

[gbhibby]

Indoor full size pitch would be an excellent investment imo

Never seen an indoor full size pitch score a goal

[Spike Mandela]

Im looking forward to bbc sportsounds take. They wont understand the financials and will be wholly negative about the implications.

Will take them five minutes to turn it arround to the potential for Rangers to do a similar deal and the benefits in that for them.

[TrinityHFC]

Never seen an indoor full size pitch score a goal

But you will have seen fit and well trained players score goals?

[gbhibby]

But you will have seen fit and well trained players score goals?
It was a bit tongue in cheek comment. But would rather get recruitment right first. We do have a small indoor facility at HTC.

[nonshinyfinish]

Incidentally for all the talk about HSL being diluted by Ron they’ve got what looks like a pretty valuable chunk of shares now. That’s the thing when an owner wants the control the additional shares he purchased at the time brings but it has increased the value for all shareholders even if they own a bit less percentage wise.

Since HSL's goal is to have 25% of share in the club, the dilution still leaves them further away from their goal even if they've made a theoretical profit on the shares they've bought.

[CropleyWasGod]

Since HSL's goal is to have 25% of share in the club, the dilution still leaves them further away from their goal even if they've made a theoretical profit on the shares they've bought.

Yep.

The "profit" is meaningless. As is the "value".

The real value in the holding, for them, is the percentage. As you say, dilution would reduce that value.

[SJNB Hibby]

Finally a pre season away at Bournemouth. 1.5 hours drive South of me.

In all seriousness. Great news.

J
Maybe a wee mini-Bill Foley Tourney with Lorient as well

[neil7908]

It was a bit tongue in cheek comment. But would rather get recruitment right first. We do have a small indoor facility at HTC.

I know it's not all or nothing but that's how I feel as well.

There's been an awful lot over the years at Hibs about infrastructure and how improving it will allow us to kick on.

And yet we've still found ourselves behind the likes of Hearts and Aberdeen year after year. All the piss taking about Hearts facilities and how many points ahead of us are they?

If there is say £6m going around I'd love to see it all put into the first team.

But given we're getting a chunk of money for nothing, I won't complain if it goes to other purposes.

[SickBoy32]

I know it's not all or nothing but that's how I feel as well.

There's been an awful lot over the years at Hibs about infrastructure and how improving it will allow us to kick on.

And yet we've still found ourselves behind the likes of Hearts and Aberdeen year after year. All the piss taking about Hearts facilities and how many points ahead of us are they?

If there is say £6m going around I'd love to see it all put into the first team.

But given we're getting a chunk of money for nothing, I won't complain if it goes to other purposes.

Agree with all of that.

On your final point - if there is no share issue (which appears to be the case), is it not the Gordons who will be in receipt of the money from Foley? Obviously they may choose to spend some / all of this on increasing the value of the club, through the infrastructure improvements.

[TrinityHFC]

Since HSL's goal is to have 25% of share in the club, the dilution still leaves them further away from their goal even if they've made a theoretical profit on the shares they've bought.

Yeah that ship has sailed.

In terms of taking in new money I think this deal just reinforces that the model is dead. It is very unlikely that they will be able to purchase further shares so they are taking cash in to sit on. Their principle also say that the money they take should go to the club. Also not likely. On the outside chance shareholders sell to them and the club accepts the transfer that money will go to the shareholder.

I still think a better outcome for HSL and Hibs would have been for them to sell up the holding they do have in this deal and hand the proceeds over to Hibs. Anyway, that’s not going to happen either!

[basehibby]

Since HSL's goal is to have 25% of share in the club, the dilution still leaves them further away from their goal even if they've made a theoretical profit on the shares they've bought.

25% ownership was not the ONLY objective of HSL. For me, the primary objective is to provide extra financial support for the football team. I know we haven't been doing that regularly since the option to purchase more shares was closed down - but it remains the primary objective as far as I'm concerned.

[JimBHibees]

It was a bit tongue in cheek comment. But would rather get recruitment right first. We do have a small indoor facility at HTC.

The small facility which isn't really fit for purpose. Agree about recruitment

[nonshinyfinish]

25% ownership was not the ONLY objective of HSL. For me, the primary objective is to provide extra financial support for the football team. I know we haven't been doing that regularly since the option to purchase more shares was closed down - but it remains the primary objective as far as I'm concerned.

Sure, but my point was that they're not going to be celebrating an increase in the paper value of their shares.

[CropleyWasGod]

I know it's not all or nothing but that's how I feel as well.

There's been an awful lot over the years at Hibs about infrastructure and how improving it will allow us to kick on.

And yet we've still found ourselves behind the likes of Hearts and Aberdeen year after year. All the piss taking about Hearts facilities and how many points ahead of us are they?

If there is say £6m going around I'd love to see it all put into the first team.

But given we're getting a chunk of money for nothing, I won't complain if it goes to other purposes.

Not sure if I've misunderstood you, but.... are we?

[Haymaker]

The £6m may have to be into infrastructure... but does that free up club money, already in place yet earmarked for the infrastructure, to be invested in the first team?

[neil7908]

Not sure if I've misunderstood you, but.... really?

I've not really followed the mechanics of this and maybe not worded right but effectively Foley etc will get shares - is that right? I guess what I was getting at (maybe I'm wrong?) is that this money isn't coming out of our current budget for running the club - effectively we'll see an extra £6m put into the club with no requirement to repay.

This is not like we're using existing resources to pay for infrastructure, thereby reducing what we have to spend on the playing squad.

Or am I way off!?

[HoboHarry]

Not sure if I've misunderstood you, but.... are we?
Aye we are, there's a taxi with a dozen suitcases full of Benjamins winging it's way to Easter Road as we speak.....

[basehibby]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

The only reporting on this I read indicated the majority of any inward investment would be spent on the team on the pitch. What I saw mentioned was about £1M to build an indoor pitch at HTC with the rest being put towards the playing staff. Mind you, if the FF is also to be developed that could account for about £1M.
That would leave about £4M additional funds for the manager to spend.
Of course that would be on a mixture of transfer fees, signing on fees and wages over the next few years I assume.

[CropleyWasGod]

I've not really followed the mechanics of this and maybe not worded right but effectively Foley etc will get shares - is that right? I guess what I was getting at (maybe I'm wrong?) is that this money isn't coming out of our current budget for running the club - effectively we'll see an extra £6m put into the club with no requirement to repay. Ir

Or am I way off!?

If they are getting shares, the current thinking is that these are not new shares, they are the Gordons' shares. In other words, no money goes towards the club.

My own expectation is that some of the reputed £6m will be in the way of loans, either cash or in-kind. That will come at a cost.

I think people have to realise that Foley is no James Anderson in this situation.

[ruthven_raiders]

The only reporting on this I read indicated the majority of any inward investment would be spent on the team on the pitch. What I saw mentioned was about £1M to build an indoor pitch at HTC with the rest being put towards the playing staff. Mind you, if the FF is also to be developed that could account for about £1M.
That would leave about £4M additional funds for the manager to spend.

Doubt any spending on stadium or HTC will only be £2m, the famous five stand is in disrepair behind the scenes, so that might be a hefty amount, also indoor pitch might be basic but might be over £1m, Sfa approval would have been for long standing investment initially, money thrown at player recruitment, that's what I get from comments in the media and on here.....oops forgot about safe standing costs....

[basehibby]

Sure, but my point was that they're not going to be celebrating an increase in the paper value of their shares.

Fair enough although I would have thought that was immaterial in any case. HSL ain't going to be selling up so any increase or decrease in the share value is by the by - unless we were buying more shares of course.

[Broxburn Greens]

There will have been conversations with the SFA to layout that the nature of the investment will be sustainable, with a focus on infrastructure etc. and I believe to help our cause with those discussions, the initial £6m has been proposed to be allocated to East Mains etc.

Make no mistake though, Foley’s aim here, as he’s stated, is to make us the third force in Scottish football and making a dent in Europe. That will undoubtedly involve a significant increase in transfer and wage budget.

I was going to ask along those lines which you’ve answered perfectly.

How is that Anderson is literally allowed to chuck money at Hearts no questions asked but this £6m is poured over with a fine toothed comb?

From what you’ve said the £6m only had to be looked at in tandem with the dual ownership… was this money going to benefit Hibs in a meaningful way such as infrastructure and facilities (which it is) to gain SFA approval.

Now Foley has his foot in the door I assume he’s welcome to chuck as much money around as he sees fit without the SFA raising any questions? Provided the cash is legal of course as the SFA have always ensured there’s no dodgy money in Scottish football… Oh, wait….


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[Victor]

I've not really followed the mechanics of this and maybe not worded right but effectively Foley etc will get shares - is that right? I guess what I was getting at (maybe I'm wrong?) is that this money isn't coming out of our current budget for running the club - effectively we'll see an extra £6m put into the club with no requirement to repay.

This is not like we're using existing resources to pay for infrastructure, thereby reducing what we have to spend on the playing squad.

Or am I way off!?

As I understand it the scenario is this. I have a 20 bedroom mansion, that is weatherproof and habitable, but to maintain it at that level, I will have to fritter away a lot of money on its upkeep and day to day running. A rich American likes my mansion and could buy it outright for £6 million. However, this would leave him £6 million in debt and he would inherit all the ongoing problems. I would be £6 million pound richer, but homeless and wouldn’t be able to buy a comparable property. Instead he gives me £6 million pounds, with this money I convert the mansion into a hotel, that provides me and the American with an income for years to come.

[CropleyWasGod]

I was going to ask along those lines which you’ve answered perfectly.

How is that Anderson is literally allowed to chuck money at Hearts no questions asked but this £6m is poured over with a fine toothed comb?

From what you’ve said the £6m only had to be looked at in tandem with the dual ownership… was this money going to benefit Hibs in a meaningful way such as infrastructure and facilities (which it is) to gain SFA approval.

Now Foley has his foot in the door I assume he’s welcome to chuck as much money around as he sees fit without the SFA raising any questions? Provided the cash is legal of course as the SFA have always ensured there’s no dodgy money in Scottish football… Oh, wait….


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Anderson doesn't have any financial stake in Hearts, which is the fundamental difference.

However, he will have been part of the "fit-and-proper" process when he joined the Board. Also, he does contribute to grass-roots and women's football, so he is already contributing to the growth of the game.

[overdrive]

If they are getting shares, the current thinking is that these are not new shares, they are the Gordons' shares. In other words, no money goes towards the club.

My own expectation is that some of the reputed £6m will be in the way of loans, either cash or in-kind. That will come at a cost.

I think people have to realise that Foley is no James Anderson in this situation.

Even if it is a donation rather than a loan (or indeed if it is a loan) there will likely be non-financial costs and indirect financial costs. For example, let's say Molotnikov ends up being an outstanding young player, we might have to give 'first dibs' to Bournemouth (or another club in the Black Knights' sphere) rather than open a bidding war on him.

[Torto7]

I was going to ask along those lines which you’ve answered perfectly.

How is that Anderson is literally allowed to chuck money at Hearts no questions asked but this £6m is poured over with a fine toothed comb?

From what you’ve said the £6m only had to be looked at in tandem with the dual ownership… was this money going to benefit Hibs in a meaningful way such as infrastructure and facilities (which it is) to gain SFA approval.

Now Foley has his foot in the door I assume he’s welcome to chuck as much money around as he sees fit without the SFA raising any questions? Provided the cash is legal of course as the SFA have always ensured there’s no dodgy money in Scottish football… Oh, wait….


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Hibs play everything by the book whereas the others just do what they want as they know they're toothless and wont act. There's a very large football agency in Scotland that is ultimately owned by Daniel Kinahan and Steven Lyons that's currently up in the courts and they still haven't suspended them.

[CropleyWasGod]

As I understand it the scenario is this. I have a 20 bedroom mansion, that is weatherproof and habitable, but to maintain it at that level, I will have to fritter away a lot of money on its upkeep and day to day running. A rich American likes my mansion and could buy it outright for £6 million. However, this would leave him £6 million in debt and he would inherit all the ongoing problems. I would be £6 million pound richer, but homeless and wouldn’t be able to buy a comparable property. Instead he gives me £6 million pounds, with this money I convert the mansion into a hotel, that provides me and the American with an income for years to come.

"lends me" :cb

[basehibby]

Doubt any spending on stadium or HTC will only be £2m, the famous five stand is in disrepair behind the scenes, so that might be a hefty amount, also indoor pitch might be basic but might be over £1m, Sfa approval would have been for long standing investment initially, money thrown at player recruitment, that's what I get from comments in the media and on here.....oops forgot about safe standing costs....

I'm just going from what was reported previously - as per this article in the Herald, the intention is to direct the majority of initial investment to strengthening the team ...

https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/24001472.bournemouth-owner-foley-planning-initial-6m-hibs-investment/

[nonshinyfinish]

As I understand it the scenario is this. I have a 20 bedroom mansion, that is weatherproof and habitable, but to maintain it at that level, I will have to fritter away a lot of money on its upkeep and day to day running. A rich American likes my mansion and could buy it outright for £6 million. However, this would leave him £6 million in debt and he would inherit all the ongoing problems. I would be £6 million pound richer, but homeless and wouldn’t be able to buy a comparable property. Instead he gives me £6 million pounds, with this money I convert the mansion into a hotel, that provides me and the American with an income for years to come.

Is this one of those 20-bedroom hotels with five windows?

[Iain G]

As I understand it the scenario is this. I have a 20 bedroom mansion, that is weatherproof and habitable, but to maintain it at that level, I will have to fritter away a lot of money on its upkeep and day to day running. A rich American likes my mansion and could buy it outright for £6 million. However, this would leave him £6 million in debt and he would inherit all the ongoing problems. I would be £6 million pound richer, but homeless and wouldn’t be able to buy a comparable property. Instead he gives me £6 million pounds, with this money I convert the mansion into a hotel, that provides me and the American with an income for years to come.

But does this hotel have windows?

[overdrive]

Anderson doesn't have any financial stake in Hearts, which is the fundamental difference.

However, he will have been part of the "fit-and-proper" process when he joined the Board. Also, he does contribute to grass-roots and women's football, so he is already contributing to the growth of the game.

I've mentioned this on the PM board but Hearts and JA are a red herring in terms of the "why have the SFA not stuck their noses into this but they have with us?" type questions. It is Aberdeen's relationship with Atlanta Utd that we should be asking that question about.

[neil7908]

If they are getting shares, the current thinking is that these are not new shares, they are the Gordons' shares. In other words, no money goes towards the club.

My own expectation is that some of the reputed £6m will be in the way of loans, either cash or in-kind. That will come at a cost.

I think people have to realise that Foley is no James Anderson in this situation.

Thanks, that's quite interesting and not as positive as I was hoping!

Appreciate nothing is set in stone and we won't know more until the AGM but a £6m loan, much of it to do up the stadium and EM, isn't making me giddy.

I'll need to start paying a bit more attention but yeah, I'm a bit underwhelmed reading that.

[CropleyWasGod]

I've mentioned this on the PM board but Hearts and JA are a red herring in terms of the "why have the SFA not stuck their noses into this but they have with us?" type questions. It is Aberdeen's relationship with Atlanta Utd that we should be asking that question about.

AU's holding company has a stake of less than 10% IIRC. I think the size of the investment is the issue here.

[Broxburn Greens]

Anderson doesn't have any financial stake in Hearts, which is the fundamental difference.

However, he will have been part of the "fit-and-proper" process when he joined the Board. Also, he does contribute to grass-roots and women's football, so he is already contributing to the growth of the game.

Yes I understand that, the point I’m making is that now this is approved if for example Foley wanted to invest another £10m into the playing squad it should have nothing to do with the SFA as he’s clearly now deemed a fit and proper person (or The Black Knights are).

If that’s not the case why then is Anderson as I said just allowed to empty his wallet each year to keep Hearts basically solvent?


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[HoboHarry]

Yes I understand that, the point I’m making is that now this is approved if for example Foley wanted to invest another £10m into the playing squad it should have nothing to do with the SFA as he’s clearly now deemed a fit and proper person (or The Black Knights are).

If that’s not the case why then is Anderson as I said just allowed to empty his wallet each year to keep Hearts basically solvent?


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That would probably put us in bother with the FSR assuming we qualified for Europe no?

[Broxburn Greens]

That would probably put us in bother with the FSR assuming we qualified for Europe no?

Just an hypothetical example.


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[HibbyDave]

If Foley is to buy shares then where do they come from? If it’s from The Gordon family then no cash to Hibs.
If it’s a new share issue, why not open offer to all investors?
If Foley is to be a minor stakeholder as opposed shareholder then the devil will be in the detail of the type of security and more importantly the covenants of said deal.

[CropleyWasGod]

Yes I understand that, the point I’m making is that now this is approved if for example Foley wanted to invest another £10m into the playing squad it should have nothing to do with the SFA as he’s clearly now deemed a fit and proper person (or The Black Knights are).

If that’s not the case why then is Anderson as I said just allowed to empty his wallet each year to keep Hearts basically solvent?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

As long as it's not more shares, that will take him above the 25% that seems to be the issue, I don't see why not.

[CropleyWasGod]

If Foley is to buy shares then where do they come from? If it’s from The Gordon family then no cash to Hibs.
If it’s a new share issue, why not open offer to all investors?
If Foley is to be a minor stakeholder as opposed shareholder then the devil will be in the detail of the type of security and more importantly the covenants of said deal.

He wouldn't need security if he is buying shares.

That only comes into play if he lends us money.

[Broken Gnome]

Hibs play everything by the book whereas the others just do what they want as they know they're toothless and wont act. There's a very large football agency in Scotland that is ultimately owned by Daniel Kinahan and Steven Lyons that's currently up in the courts and they still haven't suspended them.

Details? Genuinely interested.

[Vault Boy]

Helipad on top of the new filled in Easter Road corners when?

[HibbyDave]

He wouldn't need security if he is buying shares.

That only comes into play if he lends us money.

Yes I know. Please re-read my post as I mentioned minor stakeholder (as opposed to shareholder).😀

[CropleyWasGod]

Yes I know. Please re-read my post as I mentioned minor stakeholder (as opposed to shareholder).😀

You did. Apologies.

That said, everything points to him being a shareholder, though. (although I do anticipate some sort of loan as well, which is where your security point becomes important).

[Broxburn Greens]

As long as it's not more shares, that will take him above the 25% that seems to be the issue, I don't see why not.

That was my thinking, cheers [emoji106]


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[Kato]

Anderson doesn't have any financial stake in Hearts, which is the fundamental difference.



Do we know that for a fact?



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[VoltaireHibs]

You did. Apologies.

That said, everything points to him being a shareholder, though. (although I do anticipate some sort of loan as well, which is where your security point becomes important).


I've read your posts from way before I joined and you obviously have a financial background/job etc, if I could ask a couple of questions of you -


Do you think this is a good deal, and if so why?

What do you think the end game is for Foley/Black Knights? Is this their full level of participation or, if you were a betting man, would you see this as the start of a takeover?

Obviously we're taking hypotheticals here, but just your reading of it all.

[CropleyWasGod]

I've read your posts from way before I joined and you obviously have a financial background/job etc, if I could ask a couple of questions for you -


Do you think this is a good deal, and if so why?

What do you think the end game is for Foley/Black Knights? Is this their full level of participation or, if you were a betting man, would you see this as the start of a takeover?

I don't know what the deal is. I don't think anyone on this board does, (apart from the Club spies :greengrin).

Once I know that, I might have a view on your questions. :cb

[overdrive]

AU's holding company has a stake of less than 10% IIRC. I think the size of the investment is the issue here.

Potentially. I'm not sure what the SFA's rules are. However, given some people have said one of the main concerns the SFA had was Black Knights not exerting control over how Hibs are run, we haven't heard anything about BK (ooh that's going to get confusing) getting representation on the board - yet AU always seem to have someone on the AFC board (the original guy is no longer with AU and has been replaced by one of their VPs on the AFC board). Aberdeen conveniently then appointed Stephen Glass as manager weeks after he was passed over for the AU manager's job after doing it on a caretaker basis for months.

[Onceinawhile]

So 6 million in.

A million on the training ground
A million on the ff hospitality
500k on safe standing.

3.5 million for players.

Might be higher on the first two costs, but think we'll still get a good chunk to spend on the team.

[04Sauzee]

Stupid question but how much are the 'Black Knights ' worth? Am I correct in saying it's the Black Knight and not Foley who have got a ahre of Hibs. Understand Filey is part of the Black Knights?

[hibsbollah]

Helipad on top of the new filled in Easter Road corners when?

Just before we announce the inevitable Rashford signing. He’ll need something on which to arrive, after all.

[overdrive]

Just before we announce the inevitable Rashford signing. He’ll need something on which to arrive, after all.

We'll need to build him a nightclub and provide him with unlimited paracetamol and Irn-Bru for the hangovers to seal the deal

[VoltaireHibs]

I don't know what the deal is. I don't think anyone on this board does, (apart from the Club spies :greengrin).

Once I know that, I might have a view on your questions. :cb

Can a minority stakeholder load debt onto a club? That would be the only concern I can see

You don't see a scenario playing out?

To me it looks like an excellent deal. Foley's money and contacts for a minority stake, assuming there is no mechanism to increase that stake (and article 13 would seem to make that problematic), then I struggle to see the jeopardy.

[HoboHarry]

Just before we announce the inevitable Rashford signing. He’ll need something on which to arrive, after all.
Rashford can wait, I want VVD in the door first.......

[CropleyWasGod]

Can a minority stakeholder load debt onto a club? That would be the only concern I can see

You don't see a scenario playing out?

To me it looks like an excellent deal. Foley's money and contacts for a minority stake, assuming there is no mechanism to increase that stake (and article 13 would seem to make that problematic), then I struggle to see the jeopardy.

To answer your first question, yes they can. There's nothing to stop any shareholder lending the club money.

How is the money coming in, in your scenario?

[hibsbollah]

We'll need to build him a nightclub and provide him with unlimited paracetamol and Irn-Bru for the hangovers to seal the deal

I can just see Marcus staggering about outside Bongo looking for the nearest kebab house.

[VoltaireHibs]

Stupid question but how much are the 'Black Knights ' worth? Am I correct in saying it's the Black Knight and not Foley who have got a ahre of Hibs. Understand Filey is part of the Black Knights?

I think they're in the tens of billions arena. It's why we're a good option. For them it's basically chump change to make an impact at Hibs. Add in the training ground upgrades and creating a totally professional environment to send developing players and it's pretty much a good deal all round. I hope! 😁

[Renfrew_Hibby]

Would this not be an initial investment? Get the training ground and stadium up to speed this summer and take it from there.

[Chipper1875]

Can a minority stakeholder load debt onto a club? That would be the only concern I can see

You don't see a scenario playing out?

To me it looks like an excellent deal. Foley's money and contacts for a minority stake, assuming there is no mechanism to increase that stake (and article 13 would seem to make that problematic), then I struggle to see the jeopardy.

This is what’s happening now with Bydand sports

[overdrive]

On the training ground front, anyone know if we have planning permission for the indoor training facility? IIRC we by and large got away with it when we set HTC up as there was some sort of special dispensation for converting farm buildings. I'm assuming this will be a new building. It might actually be a slow process getting this up and running if not.

[Betty Boop]

Hibs play everything by the book whereas the others just do what they want as they know they're toothless and wont act. There's a very large football agency in Scotland that is ultimately owned by Daniel Kinahan and Steven Lyons that's currently up in the courts and they still haven't suspended them.
You'll waken up in the morning next to a horse's heid :wink:

[superfurryhibby]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.


Made clear? By whom?

As far as I’m aware there have been no plans released discussing the investment and how it will be used?


I don't know what the deal is. I don't think anyone on this board does, (apart from the Club spies :greengrin).

Once I know that, I might have a view on your questions. :cb

So much speculation based on so little information.

My wild guess is that there will be infrastructure investment, probably with a focus on projects that generate revenue. As well as bars, corporate and the like, the playing side will get a significant boost. Our rivals pulled in large amounts of cash by being better than us at football. With the incentives from qualifying for Europe well established, I fail to see why anyone would ignore this as an obvious and potentially very significant revenue stream. Nothing generates more interest than a successful side.

[VoltaireHibs]

To answer your first question, yes they can. There's nothing to stop any shareholder lending the club money.

How is the money coming in, in your scenario?

The money, for the Black Knights purposes, will be infrastructure, as stated by others, but also in the likes of Marcondes, who, if he's on 15k a week and we're paying zilch, as rumoured, that's 300k right there. There wil be a new shirt sponsor I suspect. Stadium naming rights, increases in hospitality etc. But we can also run at a loss for, I think.., three years -

'UEFA' new rules allow clubs to incur losses of €60m over three years, compared to the previous allowance of €30m. A spending cap on wages, transfers and agents’ fees to 70% of a club’s total revenue by 2025/2026 has also been introduced. Clubs are also required to settle overdue payables in specified timeframes.'

So if I'm reading that correctly we have a fair bit of wiggle room. 🤔

Reading that back maybe this is why they want to do this now. Build the club up before the new 70% rule in 2025/26 and have us sitting with a higher turnover to allow a cycle if success to grow. That rule also makes it harder, I would imagine, for other external owners to come in and do this after the new rules are enforced, yes?

[GloryGlory]

Potentially. I'm not sure what the SFA's rules are. However, given some people have said one of the main concerns the SFA had was Black Knights not exerting control over how Hibs are run, we haven't heard anything about BK (ooh that's going to get confusing) getting representation on the board - yet AU always seem to have someone on the AFC board (the original guy is no longer with AU and has been replaced by one of their VPs on the AFC board). Aberdeen conveniently then appointed Stephen Glass as manager weeks after he was passed over for the AU manager's job after doing it on a caretaker basis for months.

I think anyone with an almost 25% shareholding in a business will expect a seat on the board.

[CropleyWasGod]

The money, for the Black Knights purposes, will be infrastructure, as stated by others, but also in the likes of Marcondes, who, if he's on 15k a week and we're paying zilch, as rumoured, that's 300k right there. There wil be a new shirt sponsor I suspect. Stadium naming rights, increases in hospitality etc. But we can also run for, I think.., three years -

'UEFA' new rules allow clubs to incur losses of €60m over three years, compared to the previous allowance of €30m. A spending cap on wages, transfers and agents’ fees to 70% of a club’s total revenue by 2025/2026 has also been introduced. Clubs are also required to settle overdue payables in specified timeframes.'

So if I'm reading that correctly we have a fair bit of wiggle room. ��

I meant... in what form is the "investment" coming in?

Loans? Shares? Donations?

[GloryGlory]

On the training ground front, anyone know if we have planning permission for the indoor training facility? IIRC we by and large got away with it when we set HTC up as there was some sort of special dispensation for converting farm buildings. I'm assuming this will be a new building. It might actually be a slow process getting this up and running if not.

It's not a change of use, though, so probably just need building warrants and consent.

[Hibees1973]

There have been a couple of questions about this, but it would be good to get full clarification. Apologies, I'm getting old.

Foley now owns 25% of Hibs and the Gordons/Hibs now have £6m. Going by the statement this £6m is going to be used to improve our training centre, Easter Road and 'maybe' some players.

There have been suggestions that IF Foley wants to give Hibs say another £10m next year to 'invest' in our playing squad this would break FFP rules. Is this right?

[VoltaireHibs]

I meant... in what form is the "investment" coming in?

Loans? Shares? Donations?

Loans, unless it's a staged buyout? How does Anderson do it at our neighbours? As far as I know his money goes to infrastructure mainly, but that obviously frees up their budget.

But also, is it possible that the non footballing investments the Black Knights have decide to sponsor Hibs? As a way of funnelling money into the club?

[VoltaireHibs]

There have been a couple of questions about this, but it would be good to get full clarification. Apologies, I'm getting old.

Foley now owns 25% of Hibs and the Gordons/Hibs now have £6m. Going by the statement this £6m is going to be used to improve our training centre, Easter Road and 'maybe' some players.

There have been suggestions that IF Foley wants to give Hibs say another £10m next year to 'invest' in our playing squad this would break FFP rules. Is this right?

UEFA's new rules allow clubs to incur losses of €60m over three years, compared to the previous allowance of €30m. A spending cap on wages, transfers and agents’ fees to 70% of a club’s total revenue by 2025/2026 has also been introduced. Clubs are also required to settle overdue payables in specified timeframes.

[Steve20]

Had the club talk in years past by saying money has gone into training centre and infrastructure. Not done us any good when it comes to the playing side.

If we’re getting money put into the club, it’s only exciting if a decent majority of it is put into making us have a far bigger budget for bringing in players to the first team.

Otherwise it’s as we are.

[overdrive]

It's not a change of use, though, so probably just need building warrants and consent.

Is it an existing building that's being converted? Without ever having been at HTC, I don't know if there's unused buildings or whether the bit with the current indoor pitch is big enough and it is just that we chose to have a smaller pitch in there.

[VoltaireHibs]

There have been a couple of questions about this, but it would be good to get full clarification. Apologies, I'm getting old.

Foley now owns 25% of Hibs and the Gordons/Hibs now have £6m. Going by the statement this £6m is going to be used to improve our training centre, Easter Road and 'maybe' some players.

There have been suggestions that IF Foley wants to give Hibs say another £10m next year to 'invest' in our playing squad this would break FFP rules. Is this right?

As far as I can see no one knows if money is changing hands for shares as such, or if the shares are being transferred to the BK group based on a contractual agreement to invest in Hibs. So the Gordon's may not be sitting with more money in their accounts, just the promise of investment which should grow their own investment. CWG may be kind enough to clarify this scenario. 😁

[CropleyWasGod]

Loans, unless it's a staged buyout? How does Anderson do it at our neighbours? As far as I know his money goes to infrastructure mainly, but that obviously frees up their budget.

What are the repayment terms? What is the security?

You see what I'm doing here? You have your own scenario as to what is happening. There are about a dozen more that I could list. My point is that, unless we know the facts, none of us can judge whether it is good or not, which was your original question.

As for Anderson, the situations are (as far as I can see) very different. He doesn't have a financial interest. His investment is community-based, and there is no need for it to be repaid or recouped.

[Alex Trager]

The route into European Group Stage football next season is not by finishing in 3rd place this season

It is by winning the Scottish Cup

That's the goal

Correct. Everyone (and I mean everyone including all the journos, all the managers, all the players, all the fans) keeps saying how much third means to the team that finishes there.

Not if a team in 4th or below win the cup.

[VoltaireHibs]

What are the repayment terms? What is the security?

You see what I'm doing here? You have your own scenario as to what is happening. There are about a dozen more that I could list. My point is that, unless we know the facts, none of us can judge whether it is good or not, which was your original question.

As for Anderson, the situations are (as far as I can see) very different. He doesn't have a financial interest. His investment is community-based, and there is no need for it to be repaid or recouped.

I'm not sure, on the sums being spoken of, which was 6 million a year for three years, that we can even give that security? I don't see any existential threat to Hibs in this scenario. I can see it could fail, things can always go awry, but it's in none of the parties interests to shut Hibs down due to debt. My gut feeling is the debt would be written off in a worst case scenario. For the likes of Foley etc it really is back of the sofa money. The deal is much more about control, turning Hibs into a club that has an training environment and culture where they're happy to send players. That's the real end game. And it's a good one for us imo.

If it was someone investing in us that had 40 million I'd be far more concerned. But with a group like the Black Knights you also have to think of their reputational damage if they got involved with Hibs and we went out of business. I just cannot see how this scenario could play out for the sums involved and the type of investors they are.

[greenginger]

The only lesson to be learned from previous club problems is don’t bump Hector!

[VoltaireHibs]

What are the repayment terms? What is the security?

You see what I'm doing here? You have your own scenario as to what is happening. There are about a dozen more that I could list. My point is that, unless we know the facts, none of us can judge whether it is good or not, which was your original question.

As for Anderson, the situations are (as far as I can see) very different. He doesn't have a financial interest. His investment is community-based, and there is no need for it to be repaid or recouped.

But I appreciate your conservative, non committal outlook and responses. You're definitely a financial person of some sort. 😉

[CropleyWasGod]

I'm not sure, on the sums being spoken of, which was 6 million a year for three years, that we can even give that security? I don't see any existential threat to Hibs in this scenario. I can see it could fail, things can always go awry, but it's in none of the parties interests to shut Hibs down due to debt. My gut feeling is the debt would be written off in a worst case scenario. For the likes of Foley etc it really is back of the sofa money. The deal is much more about control, turning Hibs into a club that has an training environment and culture where they're happy to send players. That's the real end game. And it's a good one for us imo.

With Bricks-and-mortar assets of £25m, we could.

There's your existential threat right there. :wink:

One of many issues that need to be addressed before we start drinking the Kool-aid.

[Hibees1973]

UEFA's new rules allow clubs to incur losses of €60m over three years, compared to the previous allowance of €30m. A spending cap on wages, transfers and agents’ fees to 70% of a club’s total revenue by 2025/2026 has also been introduced. Clubs are also required to settle overdue payables in specified timeframes.

So, we all know there are now proper UEFA/FA guidelines and rules to deter clubs from racking up huge debts then write it off as the Yam did some years back. The penalties, as Everton are finding out, are huge fines and points deductions, therefore making it very difficult to recover from.

From what I read here then for Foley to continue investing and Hibs remaining sustainable (not racking up huge debts) success on the park is a must. For example consistent crowds of 20,000, high revenue coming from fans/advertising and group stage European football.

The squad we have present is miles off this kind of success. Hope there is more money coming to help us get there.

[Alex Trager]

Finally a bit of confirmation about the hospitality inside the Famous Five aswell

My pals and I have been saying recently that the comms re the everything around the club has been so poor under this regime.

Things like the pitch, we (think) it is a hybrid. Maloney may have mentioned it being a hybrid at one point. We don’t know the make up of it, if it is a hybrid.

I don’t think the hospitality was communicated - it was indeed promoted once complete but I don’t think it was communicated. A small section of the support got an invite and one guy tweeted pictures of the brochure.

These are not that important in the grand scheme of things, but they are details that fans like and want.

The things I would say are important are things like:
the footballing strategy (we had (have?) a development squad. Why did we have it? How is it doing? What are the schedules? Why did we not go with Hearts etc into the lowland league.
If memory serves Steve K mentioned a lot of this on longbangers, but that is beside the point.
Then the transfer strategy, what is it? What are we looking at? What positions?
LJ said he liked to have a squad of 4884. How did we get on with that?
Is BMc setting the football strategy? If so, is he then deciding how we play, how the squad is built, and then looking st managers and players to compliment it.

They are a few examples of things that I would like to hear about.
I will also say that it may well be the case that some of this was communicated.
I think I get most of my news from here, for example I heard that they were considering the FF upgrades but that is all ‘I’ve heard this’.

I also understand there are things that are in the planning, but frankly, if Ben Kensell is telling people in hospitality he knows that they will be telling a wider audience, therefore he could easily sit in front of a camera and tell us all.

My solution would be to get all these high ranking people in front of a camera now and then. I won’t say to do it every quarter or something, but tell us when things are in planning. If you are planning to upgrade the pitch and West hospitality, tell us. Just sit in front of a camera for ten minutes and let us know. Explain why you are doing it.

In fact, I’ve written that all out, so I’ll email BK with it.

[VoltaireHibs]

With Bricks-and-mortar assets of £25m, we could.

There's your existential threat right there. :wink:

One of many issues that need to be addressed before we start drinking the Kool-aid.

But the reputational damage to the BK group wouldn't be worth the sums involved, imo. Unless they collapse the whole multi club thing. It makes zero sense fiscally or structurally. As I said, if was a random with 40 million doing the investing I would have grave concerns, but with the combined wealth of the BK group? Nah, not really.

Having just checked, the BK group have are valued at 11.9 billion dollars. Ryan sports just took a minority stake -

https://www.ryansportsventures.com/news/ryan-sports-ventures-expands-global-portfolio-with-strategic-investment-in-black-knight-football-club

[Waxy]

Safe standing, gazzilion pound investment. They might fill the NE corner in.
That’s me on the bandwagon.
Lets go

[sorryfolks]

It’s been made clear for months that a huge about will go to infra. People need to pay attention. It’s a long term investment strategy.

Absolutely. I may be in the minority here, but I’m hoping that we are looking at upgrading all the staff at HTC as well as the physical infrastructure. Better quality scouts, analysts, physios etc so that we really are in a position to push forward in the medium to long term. I believe this is the best way forward to ensure we have sustained success over a long period. The best quality staff = better quality players.

[VoltaireHibs]

Absolutely. I may be in the minority here, but I’m hoping that we are looking at upgrading all the staff at HTC as well as the physical infrastructure. Better quality scouts, analysts, physios etc so that we really are in a position to push forward in the medium to long term. I believe this is the best way forward to ensure we have sustained success over a long period. The best quality staff = better quality players.



I think this is exactly what will happen. In two years time we will be a very different club. Levels above where we are now. Off the field anyway. 😉

[A Hi-Bee]

Hey, hey we have some amount of undercover jumbo's on this forum along with many other sad ones. All trying very hard to get some info ha,ha, its is right that they should be worried, latest I heard is the 4 corners being filled in, not by one hotel but 4 hotels all with windows as well sea views, City views. Initial investment says it all for me, this is just the start manky jambo types, squirming in your sisters underwear it just cannot be very comfy. The futures bright the future is green and white. Just wait to see what players we mange to bring in over the next year or so.
GGTTH

[VoltaireHibs]

Hey, hey we have some amount of undercover jumbo's on this forum along with many other sad ones. All trying very hard to get some info ha,ha, its is right that they should be worried, latest I heard is the 4 corners being filled in, not by one hotel but 4 hotels all with windows as well sea views, City views. Initial investment says it all for me, this is just the start manky jambo types, squirming in your sisters underwear it just cannot be very comfy. The futures bright the future is green and white. Just wait to see what players we mange to bring in over the next year or so.
GGTTH

😂

[HoboHarry]

Hey, hey we have some amount of undercover jumbo's on this forum along with many other sad ones. All trying very hard to get some info ha,ha, its is right that they should be worried, latest I heard is the 4 corners being filled in, not by one hotel but 4 hotels all with windows as well sea views, City views. Initial investment says it all for me, this is just the start manky jambo types, squirming in your sisters underwear it just cannot be very comfy. The futures bright the future is green and white. Just wait to see what players we mange to bring in over the next year or so.
GGTTH
Oh come on now, that's nasty - put me off my lunch that......

[A Hi-Bee]

Oh come on now, that's nasty - put me off my lunch that......

Cruel but fair.:greengrin

[SteveHFC]

STV news more bothered about Rangers rejecting a move for Butland than our news. :faf:

[Joe6-2]

STV news more bothered about Rangers rejecting a move for Butland than our news. :faf:

For some reason it’s big news!!

[CropleyWasGod]

Not sure if this has been posted yet, but here is the SFA's statement.

It talks about a maximum of 29.99%, rather than the 24.99% that has been spoken about before.

https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/news/scottish-fa-statement-on-hibernian-dual-interest-dispensation-request/

[HoboHarry]

Not sure if this has been posted yet, but here is the SFA's statement.

It talks about a maximum of 29.99%, rather than the 24.99% that has been spoken about before.

https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/news/scottish-fa-statement-on-hibernian-dual-interest-dispensation-request/
Doesn't going above 25% force him to make an offer to buy everyone's shares? Not my field of knowledge but didn't this come up during the extinct Rangers/new Sevco saga?

[CropleyWasGod]

Doesn't going above 25% force him to make an offer to buy everyone's shares? Not my field of knowledge but didn't this come up during the extinct Rangers/new Sevco saga?

Not mine either, but I'd be surprised if that were the case for private companies.

Having 25% would entitle them to block any Special Resolutions, if that's what you're thinking of?

[HoboHarry]

Not mine either, but I'd be surprised if that were the case for private companies.

Having 25% would entitle them to block any Special Resolutions, if that's what you're thinking of?
Here is the article but it seems that 30% was the figure which would align with the 29.99 figure you mentioned. https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/16374894.dave-king-denies-contempt-court-failure-make-share-offer-forced-rangers-takeover/

[weecounty hibby]

Sky were reporting it was 29.9%

[ancient hibee]

Loans, unless it's a staged buyout? How does Anderson do it at our neighbours? As far as I know his money goes to infrastructure mainly, but that obviously frees up their budget.

But also, is it possible that the non footballing investments the Black Knights have decide to sponsor Hibs? As a way of funnelling money into the club?

It certainly won’t be a staged buyout. The SFA approval limits the Foley shareholding to 29.9%.

[weecounty hibby]

I am pretty excited by this as i am now at an age where if we can get a decade or so of success, win a few cups, constantly towards the top of the league, qualify for Europe each year then I am all for it. Ive watched 50 years of mostly painful mediocrity. What's the worst that can happen. Club goes tits up after years of success. See, **** and tarts for what happens if you do. Nothing. After a wee blip you go back to where you were!

[Kato]

STV news more bothered about Rangers rejecting a move for Butland than our news. :faf:Good.

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[Up-the-slope]

good to actually hear - although very brief - from Foley on Beeb news. they got him to talk to camera... apparently more on the scottish news The Nine program later

[Lago]

STV news more bothered about Rangers rejecting a move for Butland than our news. :faf:
Decent piece on BBC Scotland along with a short interview with Bill himself, he like me wants to see a Hibs team in Europe every year, not on some now and again years as happens now. Way to go Bill.

[Cammy]

Not sure if this has been posted yet, but here is the SFA's statement.

It talks about a maximum of 29.99%, rather than the 24.99% that has been spoken about before.

https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/news/scottish-fa-statement-on-hibernian-dual-interest-dispensation-request/

Yeah, I thought I had mis-heard it when they mentioned 29.9% on STV news.

[gbhibby]

https://twitter.com/callumwatt32/status/1752404692053696833?t=Q2gtFjQeROcoMdq8V3OeLg&s=19

The only Billy boy

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[CentreLine]

Good to see SFA condition require that nothing in this deal will prevent Hibs from competing in any of the European competitions.

[HoboHarry]

STV news more bothered about Rangers rejecting a move for Butland than our news. :faf:
Deflection to keep their fans attention away from a non event transfer window.

[Bostonhibby]

It was a bit tongue in cheek comment. But would rather get recruitment right first. We do have a small indoor facility at HTC.I'm more or less with you, for quite a while now we have been delivering some pretty poor results against teams who barely have pitches.

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[superfurryhibby]

I am pretty excited by this as i am now at an age where if we can get a decade or so of success, win a few cups, constantly towards the top of the league, qualify for Europe each year then I am all for it. Ive watched 50 years of mostly painful mediocrity. What's the worst that can happen. Club goes tits up after years of success. See, **** and tarts for what happens if you do. Nothing. After a wee blip you go back to where you were!


Exactly, a few more Scottish cups and a bit entertainment would hugely assist my conviviality as I approach the onset of the twilight years (sixty this year). Build a successful team and the infrastructure will be part of it, but there's nothing like winning. No fans have loved it more than Hibs fans.

50 odd (very) years of living off the scarps of the memories of boyhood football, with a wee bit Miller, McLeish, Mowbray, Stubbs and Lennon (about a quarter of a season really). There's been too many years in transition. Let's see what happens next, but you have to hope it's that it time for the Hibees to rise...etc. Is it:confused:

[Bostonhibby]

With Bricks-and-mortar assets of £25m, we could.

There's your existential threat right there. :wink:

One of many issues that need to be addressed before we start drinking the Kool-aid.Definitely something not to lose sight of.

Up to a certain point it's a very low risk investment for anyone looking for security against what they put in, however they do it.

Not quite as good as mrs doctor Budge's inflation busting return at the time, but maybe not as unconditionally secured either?

She does what she wants, she does what she wants, Mrs doctor Budge, she does what she wants[emoji16]

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[Bishop Hibee]

Interview with Foley on the BBC Scotland 9 o’clock news tonight. Talking about how much we’ll have to spend in the summer and long term plans to challenge the OF. Dare to dream!

[Billy Whizz]

Interview with Foley on the BBC Scotland 9 o’clock news tonight. Talking about how much we’ll have to spend in the summer and long term plans to challenge the OF. Dare to dream!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_scotland_mw?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

Was just on Sportsound
Starts at 19.34, says some interesting things

[Heisenberg]

Few million pounds to help with the transfer window in the summer…

[Col2]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_scotland_mw?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

Was just on Sportsound
Starts at 19.34, says some interesting things

Loved that interview. Sounds excited and indicated his investment goes into the team (so sounds like Gordon’s are not taking anything for it) and importantly said (when asked) Hibs will have millions to spend in next transfer window 👍

[Nicho87]

A few million

Get donating in those cash cows jambos

🤣🤣🤣

[One Day Soon]

Any Yank who wants to turn up at our front door offering several millions to spend in the summer transfer window, saying he wants to see us in Europe most years, wants to see us do what Bournemouth are doing in England AND pronounces 'relative' as relateeve gets my vote.

I for one welcome our new American minority overlords.

[Pete70]

Hopefully this will lead to a few more season tickets being sold meaning even more income.

[Irish_Steve]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on Brokeback

[Bostonhibby]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on BrokebackThese guys know how football finances work.

Self sufficiency just before going into voluntary liquidation and bringing the SPFL to its knees in court when they were relegated as a result of finishing in a relegation spot when the season finished springs to mind.



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[Smartie]

I’ve been cynical about the whole thing but I feel quite comforted by that interview and I’m now looking forward to what lies ahead.

[Glory Lurker]

I remain wary but, hell, it's not like anything else is on the cards. Let's party!

[Stuart93]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on Brokeback

Why are you still on there giving a **** what they think 😂

[Aldo]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on Brokeback

[emoji1787][emoji1787]

One big difference…… Vlad had no money - well he did until that gullible lot gave him money for pretend states and ST money. The rest is history

[marinello59]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on Brokeback

Excellent, they must be genuinely worried.:greengrin

[Kato]

Vlad #2 according to the scribes on BrokebackErrrm. I thought they loved him and that he was bone fide.

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[Garymcl]

Was just thinking the same Pete70 as regards to effect of this announcement short term it gives the club and supporters a huge lift but as you say this will surely have a big boost for season ticket sales with fans knowing there will be a sizeable investment in the next transfer window happy days

[King Cosell]

Exclusive interview with Bill Foley coming up on The Nine.

[jacomo]

Exactly, a few more Scottish cups and a bit entertainment would hugely assist my conviviality as I approach the onset of the twilight years (sixty this year). Build a successful team and the infrastructure will be part of it, but there's nothing like winning. No fans have loved it more than Hibs fans.

50 odd (very) years of living off the scarps of the memories of boyhood football, with a wee bit Miller, McLeish, Mowbray, Stubbs and Lennon (about a quarter of a season really). There's been too many years in transition. Let's see what happens next, but you have to hope it's that it time for the Hibees to rise...etc. Is it:confused:


For context, this investment has been estimated at £6m. Foley describes it as a ‘small investment’.

Hearts get £5m pumped in by their benefactors every season. Thankfully, they are good at making a large amount of cash got a short way, but still.

[CapitalGreen]

Exclusive interview with Bill Foley coming up on The Nine.

Despite being trailed as exclusive, I imagine it will be the same one that was on BBC radio.

[He's here!]

Loved that interview. Sounds excited and indicated his investment goes into the team (so sounds like Gordon’s are not taking anything for it) and importantly said (when asked) Hibs will have millions to spend in next transfer window 👍

Yep, 100% a good news story.

[VoltaireHibs]

For context, this investment has been estimated at £6m. Foley describes it as a ‘small investment’.

Hearts get £5m pumped in by their benefactors every season. Thankfully, they are good at making a large amount of cash got a short way, but still.

If you divide it 50/50, so 50% infrastructure and 50% player budget, it's worth about 2 Dylan Vente's on the playing side, if we're looking at the overall package. The infrastructure is the bit that will pay dividends.

[Pedantic_Hibee]

Excellent, they must be genuinely worried.:greengrin

They are. Their thread on JKB is testament to that, they’re petrified.

We know it and they know we know it.

They are shopping in Aldi whilst we are cutting about the aisles of Waitrose. The little peasants that they are.

Won’t happen to them because they’re fan owned. Chortle. I put absolutely zero money into Hearts and I have just as much a say in the running of their club as your most diehard contributor to FoH. Gullible fuds.

[Ozyhibby]

I meant... in what form is the "investment" coming in?

Loans? Shares? Donations?

Doubt it would be donations as tax would be due? Has to be loans or shares.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Ozyhibby]

So, we all know there are now proper UEFA/FA guidelines and rules to deter clubs from racking up huge debts then write it off as the Yam did some years back. The penalties, as Everton are finding out, are huge fines and points deductions, therefore making it very difficult to recover from.

From what I read here then for Foley to continue investing and Hibs remaining sustainable (not racking up huge debts) success on the park is a must. For example consistent crowds of 20,000, high revenue coming from fans/advertising and group stage European football.

The squad we have present is miles off this kind of success. Hope there is more money coming to help us get there.

Those are not Scottish rules. We have no rules in Scotland.


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[HoboHarry]

Those are not Scottish rules. We have no rules in Scotland.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Scotland has two rules as a matter of fact.

1) Any decision ever must benefit the uglies.
2) If it doesn't, have a rethink until you abide by rule one.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

They are. Their thread on JKB is testament to that, they’re petrified.

We know it and they know we know it.

They are shopping in Aldi whilst we are cutting about the aisles of Waitrose. The little peasants that they are.

Won’t happen to them because they’re fan owned. Chortle. I put absolutely zero money into Hearts and I have just as much a say in the running of their club as your most diehard contributor to FoH. Gullible fuds.

Just read that, what a bunch of deluded fannies 😆😆😆

[Lago]

For context, this investment has been estimated at £6m. Foley describes it as a ‘small investment’.

Hearts get £5m pumped in by their benefactors every season. Thankfully, they are good at making a large amount of cash got a short way, but still.
Whose to say Foley won't pump in more every year.

[Aldo]

They are. Their thread on JKB is testament to that, they’re petrified.

We know it and they know we know it.

They are shopping in Aldi whilst we are cutting about the aisles of Waitrose. The little peasants that they are.

Won’t happen to them because they’re fan owned. Chortle. I put absolutely zero money into Hearts and I have just as much a say in the running of their club as your most diehard contributor to FoH. Gullible fuds.

We are nowhere near as BIG as them and never will be. We are 5th on every single metric and we are closer to the likes of Utd than them!

[emoji1787][emoji1787]

[Not In The Know]

Despite being trailed as exclusive, I imagine it will be the same one that was on BBC radio.
What did our number one fans on the radio make of it?

[VoltaireHibs]

Doubt it would be donations as tax would be due? Has to be loans or shares.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I genuinely don't think the financials are a concern. I don't think they're looking to make a profit from Hibs as a club, I think they're looking to create an environment where players can come, either on loan or on sweetheart deals with Bournemouth and then step up, that's where our value lies for the Black Knights group, imo.

The folk wondering about loans being held against the club are kinda missing the point of the whole deal. Black Knight group aren't going to shut us down over a 20 million loan or whatever. It would be absolutely pointless in the context of their company and business model.

[Ringothedog]

We are nowhere near as BIG as them and never will be. We are 5th on every single metric and we are closer to the likes of Utd than them!

[emoji1787][emoji1787]

Iet them dream about their bigness, all I care about is being successful and winning trophies, if that means stomping on them like we did in the late 60’s and 70’s all the better. The minute we start beating them on a regular basis they will implode, their fans will disappear like snow on a hot summers day. They should not just be scared but EFFIN terrified

[jakedance]

I wish I felt more optimistic about this but Hibs have, too often, broken my spirit. It would be amazing to punch at least at our weight. We’ve had so many years of mediocrity we’re all due a break. Time will tell.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Well, it's happening so I may as well cast aside any doubts and get behind it. I'm excited, I can see great days ahead for Hibs and us as supporters.

And they may be Americans but we now have Gordons working with a Foley. Scottish heritage along with a hint of Irish. And that's very Hibernian FC.

Onwards.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Iet them dream about their bigness, all I care about is being successful and winning trophies, if that means stomping on them like we did in the late 60’s and 70’s all the better. The minute we start beating them on a regular basis they will implode, their fans will disappear like snow on a hot summers day. They should not just be scared but EFFIN terrified

Quite. When we put together that decent derby run from 2014-18 they were practically losing their minds over it. If Hearts aren't the number one team in Edinburgh then their supporters lose their entire raison d'etre

[Paul1642]

I wish I felt more optimistic about this but Hibs have, too often, broken my spirit. It would be amazing to punch at least at our weight. We’ve had so many years of mediocrity we’re all due a break. Time will tell.

Punching at our weight sounds good to me. I don’t need to compete with the old firm to be happy. Take an upper hand in the Edinburgh derby, take a few more points from the old firm than we current lot do (not hard to do any worse against them right now), compete for 3rd every year whilst not coming lower than 4th / 5th, and a trophy win every 5 years or so or better and I’ll call that a big win :)

Not asking too much.

[Paul1642]

Quite. When we put together that decent derby run from 2014-18 they were practically losing their minds over it. If Hearts aren't the number one team in Edinburgh then their supporters lose their entire raison d'etre

Never forget that they hounded out a decent manger because we beat them on route to winning the cup. Win more than we loose against them and they’ll never be happy.

[jakedance]

Punching at our weight sounds good to me. I don’t need to compete with the old firm to be happy. Take an upper hand in the Edinburgh derby, take a few more points from the old firm than we current lot do (not hard to do any worse against them right now), compete for 3rd every year whilst not coming lower than 4th / 5th, and a trophy win every 5 years or so or better and I’ll call that a big win :)

Not asking too much.

I’d be delighted with that. I’ve been meaning to do an average league placing of Scottish clubs over the last 20 years. I expect it would make for quite depressing reading on our performance compared to clubs with a smaller budget than we have. Other than the odd season we’re perennial underachievers and it takes its toll on my confidence that anything could ever be much better than it has been. I really hope I’m wrong.

[MelbourneHibees]

I genuinely don't think the financials are a concern. I don't think they're looking to make a profit from Hibs as a club, I think they're looking to create an environment where players can come, either on loan or on sweetheart deals with Bournemouth and then step up, that's where our value lies for the Black Knights group, imo.

The folk wondering about loans being held against the club are kinda missing the point of the whole deal. Black Knight group aren't going to shut us down over a 20 million loan or whatever. It would be absolutely pointless in the context of their company and business model.

I'm not sure that is exactly how this arrangement will work but that sounds like a recipe for disaster. A flurry of loan players who aren't actually joining the club because they want to buy into the clubs ethos. We have struggled before in recent years where it felt like we Had too many loaned players who had 1 eye on their next move at the parent club instead of being fully focused and trying to make the effort to play as a Team.

There's also the issue that any players sent our way will have an expectation to play each week regardless of performance.

Like I said I don't think that is how it will work for us as I doubt the Gordon family would sign us up for that, just going from your scenario.

[Is It On....]

I meant... in what form is the "investment" coming in?

Loans? Shares? Donations?

Do you know if there are pre-emption rights on the issue of new shares? Really wouldn't like "our" shareholding to be diluted.

[matty_f]

Foley was pretty clear that there's no money going out of the club, thought that was interesting.

[VoltaireHibs]

I'm not sure that is exactly how this arrangement will work but that sounds like a recipe for disaster. A flurry of loan players who aren't actually joining the club because they want to buy into the clubs ethos. We have struggled before in recent years where it felt like we Had too many loaned players who had 1 eye on their next move at the parent club instead of being fully focused and trying to make the effort to play as a Team.

There's also the issue that any players sent our way will have an expectation to play each week regardless of performance.

Like I said I don't think that is how it will work for us as I doubt the Gordon family would sign us up for that, just going from your scenario.


Loans won't be the only thing. But making us a club that can develop players and expose them to European football, that is where they see value. They aren't putting money in to make a balance sheet profit, they want to build a club that adds value to players. We can only benefit from that imo. It won't all be plain sailing but they aren't here to make us worse.

And loaning players in a multi-club system isn't the sxhe as taking a bunch of random loans. They will all want to progress, and the only way they do that is by performing for us.

[Nevi_SOL]

Makes it sound as if the purchasing money is staying in the club as well as his investment

[VoltaireHibs]

Foley was pretty clear that there's no money going out of the club, thought that was interesting.

This. A million times. Why on earth would Black Knights want to try and make a profit from Hibs. It's fairly ludicrous.

[Nicho87]

I only listen / read to ITK posters, off to kickback and will see the real reasons the black knights have arrived 👍🏻

[Kato]

Foley was pretty clear that there's no money going out of the club, thought that was interesting.

...and very keen on developing the youth.

[Stanton Spence]

I do appreciate there’s fans apprehensive about all this and what if it goes wrong.
But after watching hibs for over 45 years or so I’m less bothered .I genuinely don’t think I’ve ever seen us have 3 good seasons in a row where the squad has got better and better year on year
I’m trying not to let myself get carried away but it’s difficult not to

[Forza Fred]

I'm pleased it is now in place, but unlike some, don't expect it to automatically see us fill third place every year.

What it will do over time I think, is see us pull away from the St Mirrens and Kilmarnocks, but we will still be on a par with Hearts and Aberdeen.

In effect I see three leagues battling it out among themselves

1 Rangers, Celtic
2Hibs, Hearts, Aberdeen
3 The rest

Could be wrong of course, so let's tighten the seatbelt and see what unfolds.

[Dashing Bob S]

Hearts sussed out long ago that you have to dominate the smaller clubs, treat derbies as cup finals, and anything against the OF is a bonus. It would be interesting to see what happens if we outspend them consistently.

[Torto7]

6 million is just the initial investment. We'll also get subsidised signings via loans also saving us money. The EPL all have insane levels of data now. They are going out and recruiting nerds who would usually end up working in Finance or the like. That'll help if they tailor it to us. I'm more excited today about the long term future of Hibs than I have ever been. Say what you want about STF but he and Rod wouldn't be taken in by an imposter and Ron Gordon was no imposter. The Black Knights aren't going to be looking at Hibs with any other ideas than making us much better and I dare say Mr Foley with his Irish heritage might just fall in love with us. :flag:

[cabbageandribs1875]

Bill needs to get a move on and get that Belgian/Dutch club so we can have a pre-season football tournament planned


Hibernian
Bournemouth
Lorient
Auckland...club name still to be officially decided upon i think
Belgian/Dutch side

should play it at the largest stadium in the group,so far...Easter Road






:)

[VoltaireHibs]

Bill needs to get a move on and get that Belgian/Dutch club so we can have a pre-season football tournament planned


Hibernian
Bournemouth
Lorient
Auckland...club name still to be officially decided upon i think
Belgian/Dutch side

should play it at the largest stadium in the group,so far...Easter Road






:)

Just Lorient would do for me. It looks like a cracking place to visit. Shame their teams crap...😉

[cabbageandribs1875]

Just Lorient would do for me. It looks like a cracking place to visit. Shame their teams crap...😉



strongest side in Ligue 1 at the moment








holding all the other 17 sides up :(

[Since452]

Direct Debit FC fans getting a bit touchy on social media

[USA_Hibee]

I'm pleased it is now in place, but unlike some, don't expect it to automatically see us fill third place every year.

What it will do over time I think, is see us pull away from the St Mirrens and Kilmarnocks, but we will still be on a par with Hearts and Aberdeen.

In effect I see three leagues battling it out among themselves

1 Rangers, Celtic
2Hibs, Hearts, Aberdeen
3 The rest

Could be wrong of course, so let's tighten the seatbelt and see what unfolds.

This is where I'm at with it for now. Hearts have shown that an extra 5+ million each season doesn't make too much of a difference.

I see this as, at least, leveling the playing field and giving us access to a higher quality of player through loans from Bournemouth. Exciting times, none the less! 😁

[Aldo]

Direct Debit FC fans getting a bit touchy on social media

Sure are however ultimately they are in charge of their own destiny not some disinterested businessman or company who will throw us away when they are finished.

What happens when Budge walks away hand in hand with Anderson? Where’s the money coming from? They are in a unique position whereby Anderson donates money. What happens when the next Benny wants a piece of the pie? They need 90% to vote anything through as they are fan owned.

Anyway. I’m cheesey grinning like the Cheshire Cat this morning and I’m waiting on another round of how good fan owned is from my Jambo chums.

[Onion]

This is where I'm at with it for now. Hearts have shown that an extra 5+ million each season doesn't make too much of a difference.

I see this as, at least, leveling the playing field and giving us access to a higher quality of player through loans from Bournemouth. Exciting times, none the less! 😁

Hearts have pissed away so much extra money over the last few years with little to show for it. Zero cups or titles, just a few European nights and a bit of dominance in Edinburgh. Question is, what Hibs can really achieve with a single £6M and a link to Bournemouth ? Early loans look encouraging but the big question is can Hibs can spend the cash wisely ... for a change.

Lots of good quality loan players helps but vitally important Hibs retain a solid core of owned players that fans can relate to.

[GordonHFC]

Is there a possibility that there will be other ways of bringing in cash such as better sponsorship deals through Black Knight contacts?

[Since452]

I'm pleased it is now in place, but unlike some, don't expect it to automatically see us fill third place every year.

What it will do over time I think, is see us pull away from the St Mirrens and Kilmarnocks, but we will still be on a par with Hearts and Aberdeen.

In effect I see three leagues battling it out among themselves

1 Rangers, Celtic
2Hibs, Hearts, Aberdeen
3 The rest

Could be wrong of course, so let's tighten the seatbelt and see what unfolds.

Hibs and Aberdeen really need to buck up their ideas. Both clubs in the bottom six is laughable really. I do get your point though long term.

[Tambo]

It's now time for some talking on the pitch, still plenty to play for this season, should be some decent transfers in the summer surely.

[raeburnhibs]

Hearts have pissed away so much extra money over the last few years with little to show for it. Zero cups or titles, just a few European nights and a bit of dominance in Edinburgh. Question is, what Hibs can really achieve with a single £6M and a link to Bournemouth ? Early loans look encouraging but the big question is can Hibs can spend the cash wisely ... for a change.

Lots of good quality loan players helps but vitally important Hibs retain a solid core of owned players that fans can relate to.

Initial 6m no? Plus, Derby dominance for us for a change would be a nice start

[Broxburn Greens]

Correct. Everyone (and I mean everyone including all the journos, all the managers, all the players, all the fans) keeps saying how much third means to the team that finishes there.

Not if a team in 4th or below win the cup.

Yup, this really irritates me as poor journalism. It may be realistic to expect one of the OF to win the cup but it’s far from certain. It only takes as it stands for say Hibs or Aberdeen to get to the final against one of them and if over a single game they win then if Hearts finish 3rd they’re goosed for the group stage guarantee…. Here’s hoping.


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[Squealing pig]

Think what’s gonna be different in the loan market is players not just coming up and not giving a toss (Doherty etc) these guys are within the same pyramid and it’s in there best interests to keep performing at a high level to have any chance at Bournemouth

[CockneyRebel]

Hearts have pissed away so much extra money over the last few years with little to show for it. Zero cups or titles, just a few European nights and a bit of dominance in Edinburgh. Question is, what Hibs can really achieve with a single £6M and a link to Bournemouth ? Early loans look encouraging but the big question is can Hibs can spend the cash wisely ... for a change.

Lots of good quality loan players helps but vitally important Hibs retain a solid core of owned players that fans can relate to.

Yes, we have to have a roll over every season of contracted players or there will be no continuity on the pitch. It would need a manager who can set up his team/tactics to suit his squad each season. This would be a challenge for any manager but NM with his blinkered approach wouldn't find that a walk in the park. I know this is a generalisation but I am concerned that the immediate/short term road ahead won't be as smooth as a lot of folk expect. Of course it will depend how many loanees we get each season and for how long. I am pleased this investment is happening but not getting over excited just now.

[CraigHibee]

Direct Debit FC fans getting a bit touchy on social media

"pleasing" :greengrin

[CraigHibee]

Is there a possibility that there will be other ways of bringing in cash such as better sponsorship deals through Black Knight contacts?

i'm sure this was mentioned initially, no reason why not

[JimBHibees]

Think what’s gonna be different in the loan market is players not just coming up and not giving a toss (Doherty etc) these guys are within the same pyramid and it’s in there best interests to keep performing at a high level to have any chance at Bournemouth

Docherty came from Rangers and his return goals and assists was decent

[Hibernian Verse]

Docherty came from Rangers and his return goals and assists was decent

He means Doherty from Wolves

[Aldo]

Is there a possibility that there will be other ways of bringing in cash such as better sponsorship deals through Black Knight contacts?

I’m hoping that this is the case. Wee bit of networking and hopefully opens up new avenues to attract sponsors etc

[matty_f]

This is where I'm at with it for now. Hearts have shown that an extra 5+ million each season doesn't make too much of a difference.

I see this as, at least, leveling the playing field and giving us access to a higher quality of player through loans from Bournemouth. Exciting times, none the less! 😁

It's definitely helping them this season, they're running away with third.

[blackpoolhibs]

I think we will see a completely different quality of player come in now, yes they will still be punts on players, but the punt is are they going to be good enough to play EPL rather than SPFL.

That's the type of player we will be getting in my opinion (hopefully) and we may also get players who have signed for Bournemouth who've not been able to make it in their first team, but will still be better than we could ever sign.

I also think we might get another manager who the group think will be th next Bournemouth manager too, maybe not right away, but should Monty not get the team performing as they hope it should, he will be replaced with someone who will.

The future is exciting. :thumbsup:

[MelbourneHibees]

Has anyone sat down and looked at the transfer activity of the other clubs in this system? Have they mainly been fed players from Bournemouth (or each other)? Have they had regular cash injections? That will be the best barometer of what we can expect.

[.Sean.]

Lorient and Bournemouth are both with Umbro. Wonder if that’s who we’ll go with once we’re done with crappy Joma in the summer.

[matty_f]

Lorient and Bournemouth are both with Umbro. Wonder if that’s who we’ll go with once we’re done with crappy Joma in the summer.

Sponsorship was one of the areas that Foley highlighted as being something they could help with, so you would think shirt companies would be considered in that. FWIW, I liked the Joma shirts.

[TelaStella]

Lorient and Bournemouth are both with Umbro. Wonder if that’s who we’ll go with once we’re done with crappy Joma in the summer.

Really hope so but if that is the case I think it even predates foley’s involvement as we were selling Umbro branded retro tops from 80’s back at the start of the season. I’ve had my suspicions since then


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[Centre Hawf]

Really hope so but if that is the case I think it even predates foley’s involvement as we were selling Umbro branded retro tops from 80’s back at the start of the season. I’ve had my suspicions since then


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We've had the retro branded tops from Umbro for about 2 years now.

[nonshinyfinish]

Those are not Scottish rules. We have no rules in Scotland.

We do have to comply with UEFA rules if we want to play in Europe though.

The thing I can't figure out about the newest version of UEFA's FFP rules is whether the "acceptable deviation" (the amount you're allowed to spend above what you earn) applies to the new percentage of turnover rule.

It's described on this page as follows https://www.uefa.com/returntoplay/news/0274-14da0ce4535d-fa5b130ae9b6-1000--explainer-uefa-s-new-financial-sustainability-regulations/:


Stability and the football earnings rule

The new stability requirements are an evolution of the existing break-even requirements. To ease the implementation for clubs, the calculation of football earnings is similar to the calculation of the break-even result. Changes to the calculation of acceptable deviation encourage equity contributions rather than debt. The requirements are strengthened in that a club’s costs of relevant investments (infrastructure, youth development, etc) must now be covered with existing equity or contributions.

The acceptable deviation has increased from €30 million over three years to €60 million over three years. The acceptable deviation can be further increased above €60 million by up to €10 million for each reporting period in the monitoring period for clubs showing good financial health.

This first part seems mostly unchanged from the previous rules, except that amount you can spend above what you earn has increased to €60m over three years.


Cost control and the squad cost rule

The new regulations will see clubs subject to squad cost controls for the first time. The cost control rule restricts spending on player and coach wages, transfers, and agent fees to 70% of club revenues. (The gradual implementation will see the percentage at 90% in 2023/2024, 80% in 2024/2025, and 70% in 2025/2026). This requirement provides a direct measure between squad costs and income to encourage more performance-related costs and to limit the market inflation of wages and transfer costs of players.

Decision-making during the licence season will place a greater emphasis on up-to-date financial information, including the summer transfer window before the UEFA club competitions commence.

This is the new bit – spending on wages, transfers and agent fees can't exceed a certain percentage of turnover (90% this year, will eventually be 70%).

The question is whether that 70% is a hard limit or if the "acceptable deviation" also applies here. If it is a hard limit, that suggests that any extra money coming in from other sources could only be spent on non-player stuff like infrastructure, and the only real way to be able to spend more on players would be to increase the club's income.

[ancient hibee]

I’ve been thinking about the method of investing. Is it a possibility that the club in exchange for the £6million will issue Foley/BlackKnights with undated,redeemable loan stock(possibly with an option to convert to shares in the future).This will mean that the deal can be set up without any effect on the existing share holdings. Per haps one of our financial whizz kids would comment.