1. Is it reasonable to assume that the acquirer could actually be getting the operation for “free,” since the value of the real estate per share is worth more than the purchase price per share? Explain your answer.
2. Assume the acquirer divests all of Fairmont’s hotels and real estate properties but continues to manage the hotels and properties under long-term management contracts. How would you estimate the net present value of the acquisition of Fairmont to the acquirer? Explain your answer.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. announced on January 30, 2006, that it had agreed to be acquired by Kingdom Hotels and Colony Capital in an all-cash transaction valued at $45 per share. The transaction is valued at $3.9 billion, including assumed debt. The purchase price represents a 28% premium over Fairmont’s closing price on November 4, 2005, the last day of trading when Kingdom and Colony expressed interest in Fairmont. The combination of Fairmont and Kingdom will create a luxury global hotel chain with 120 hotels in 24 countries. Discounted cash-flow analyses, including estimated synergies and terminal value, value the firm at $43.10 per share. The net asset value of Fairmont’s real estate is believed to be $46.70 per share.