Crypto Money Printer Wants to Buy Juventus: The Battle Between Europe's Old and New Money
Tether, the world's largest stablecoin issuer, has launched a bold bid to acquire Italian football giant Juventus, offering a 20.74% premium for the 65.4% stake held by Exor, the holding company of the Agnelli family. The all-cash offer includes an additional €1 billion investment pledge. However, Exor swiftly rejected the proposal, stating there are "no negotiations" for a sale.
The move is led by Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino, an Italian native and lifelong Juventus fan. His attempt to buy his childhood club follows months of tension. After becoming the club’s second-largest shareholder earlier in 2025, Ardoino was excluded from a capital increase and faced resistance when seeking board representation. Exor instead backed club legend Giorgio Chiellini in a symbolic move to defend tradition.
The Agnellis, who have controlled Juventus for over a century, view the club as a family legacy and symbol of Italian industrial heritage. Despite the club’s financial struggles—including massive losses, accounting scandals, and exclusion from Champions League revenue—Exor has repeatedly injected funds to maintain control. The family perceives crypto-based wealth as speculative and unstable, in contrast to their industrial-rooted fortune.
The clash represents a broader cultural conflict between “old money” and “new money.” While European football clubs increasingly partner with crypto firms, traditional dynasties like the Agnellis remain resistant. Ardoino’s determination, however, signals that the push for acceptance is only beginning.
marsbit12/15 05:34