SCI ENTERTAINMENT IN TAKEOVER TALKS

[ 24 October 2005 ]

Shares in SCi Entertainment Group surged 30% during morning trade, spurred on by news that the company has been approached by up to five unnamed parties which may lead to a bid for the company. "SCi has received approaches from various parties, though there is no guarantee of an offer," the company said in a statement today.

Shares in SCi - who earlier this year purchased Lara Croft Tomb Raider creator Eidos plc - soared as much as 141.5 pence to 620 pence and traded at that price at 0920 in London, valuing the company at 447 million pounds ($789 million).

Apax Partners, a private equity group, Chicago-based Midway Games and Electronic Arts Inc - the world's largest games maker - are all rumoured to be entering a bidding war for the British publisher.