Finance

Nemetschek CEO says Thoma Bravo could sell stake in the company through an IPO

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on April 14, 2026

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· Last updated: April 14, 2026

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MUNICH, April 14 (Reuters) - Nemetschek's CEO Yves Padrines said on Tuesday private equity firm Thoma Bravo could eventually sell its stake in the company's construction software division through an

Nemetschek CEO: Thoma Bravo May Exit Stake via IPO After HCSS Acquisition

Nemetschek's Acquisition of HCSS and Thoma Bravo's Potential Exit Strategies

Overview of the Acquisition Deal

MUNICH, April 14 (Reuters) - Nemetschek's CEO Yves Padrines said on Tuesday private equity firm Thoma Bravo could eventually sell its stake in the company's construction software division through an initial public offering.

The German software house announced on Monday it would acquire HCSS, an U.S. company specialised in civil engineering and construction software, from Thoma Bravo, which, in return, would receive a 28% stake in Nemetschek's construction software division Build & Construct.

Thoma Bravo's Exit Options

"For a later exit of Thoma Bravo, there are three options: We could buy back some of their shares, they could sell it to another sponsor, or – which would be the preferred option for Thoma Bravo – we could do an IPO for the unit. But Nemetschek would always remain a majority owner," Padrines told Reuters.

Valuation and Financial Details

The deal, which will combine HCSS with Build & Construct, is based on a valuation of more than 20 times HCSS's operating profit (EBITDA), Padrines added.

HCSS recorded an EBITDA of around $86 million in 2025.

Background and Negotiation Process

Padrines said the asset was on the company's radar for few years and that talks lasted for more than a year. "Thoma Bravo didn't want to sell yet. If there would have been an investment process, (it) would have been difficult to have the financial firepower to compete," he said.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Alexander Huebner, writing by Emanuele Berro, editing by Linda Pasquini)

Key Takeaways

  • Thoma Bravo gains ~28% stake in Build & Construct following sale of HCSS, with exit via IPO a preferred route
  • HCSS delivered ~US$215 million revenue in 2025, ~21% ARR growth, ~40% EBITDA margin
  • Deal structures preserve Nemetschek’s control, consolidating Build & Construct fully while adding ~€450 million net debt

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Nemetschek's CEO say about Thoma Bravo's stake?
Nemetschek's CEO said Thoma Bravo could eventually sell its stake in the construction software division through an IPO.
What was the recent deal between Nemetschek and Thoma Bravo?
Nemetschek acquired HCSS from Thoma Bravo, giving Thoma Bravo a 28% stake in the Build & Construct division.
What are the options for Thoma Bravo to exit their stake?
The options include Nemetschek buying back shares, a sale to another sponsor, or an IPO—preferred by Thoma Bravo.
What is the valuation basis for the HCSS deal?
The deal is based on a valuation of more than 20 times HCSS's operating profit (EBITDA).
Will Nemetschek remain the majority owner after an IPO?
Yes, Nemetschek would always remain the majority owner, according to the CEO.

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