Soccer:Rangers are to seek admission to the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange, the Glasgow club confirmed today.
The Irn Bru Division Three club hope the move can raise up to £20million (€24,909,800) as they continue to re-order their finances following the liquidation of the ‘oldco’ club and the acquisition of its assets by Charles Green’s consortium in the summer.
The club expect their admission to the AIM to be completed by the end of the year. In a statement this morning, Rangers said the money raised would be invested in the development of the club as they aim to move through the Scottish Football League and reclaim the top-flight place they lost during this year’s financial turmoil.
“The funds raised will be used for strengthening the player squad, improving and developing the club’s properties and facilities, as well as providing additional working capital,” the statement said.
Green, the club’s chief executive, said the listing would give fans the opportunity to be part of Rangers’ rebirth. “From the time we acquired the business and assets of Rangers FC, we indicated our intention to list the company and provide our fans with the opportunity to invest in their club. I am delighted that our plans are coming to fruition,” he said.
“Rangers is debt-free and a huge club with enormous support and a 140-year track record of success on the domestic and international arenas. Our aim is to return the club to its glory days whilst ensuring it is run efficiently and profitably.”
Chairman Malcolm Murray added: “Charles has done a great job to bring the club back from the brink of extinction. We now move on to the next stage which is full recovery and growth. The fans’ loyalty has been instrumental in getting the Club on its feet and the IPO gives them the chance to have a say on club matters.”