Kathmandu float nears

Goldman Sachs JBWere and Quadrant Private Equity plan to file a prospectus next week for a stock market float of camping goods retailer Kathmandu, a source familiar with the situation said yesterday.

Media reports have said a float would value Kathmandu at more than A$400 million ($495 million).

Kathmandu, being advised by Goldman Sachs JBWere and Macquarie, would become the second retailer to launch an initial public offering since the financial crisis eased, as private equity firms take advantage of the rallying stock market and solid economy to exit their holdings.

- NZPA