Strive, Inc. has announced a major move in the healthcare and cryptocurrency sectors by finalizing an agreement to acquire Semler Scientific, Inc. in an all-stock transaction. The merger represents a substantial premium of approximately 210%, translating to about $90.52 per share based on the companies’ closing prices from September 19. According to the merger details, shareholders of Semler Scientific will receive 21.05 Class A common shares of Strive for each common share they own. The transaction gained unanimous approval from the boards of both companies and is currently pending customary closing conditions.
In a strategic parallel, Strive has also disclosed that it has bolstered its Bitcoin treasury with the acquisition of 5,816 bitcoins at an average price of $116,047 per bitcoin, amounting to a total investment of $675 million. This latest purchase brings Strive’s total Bitcoin holdings to 5,886. After the merger, the combined entity will command over 10,900 bitcoins, excluding future purchases that may be financed through new capital raising initiatives. Earlier in the year, Semler Scientific expressed intentions to accumulate a total of 10,000 bitcoins, setting a target of 105,000 bitcoins by 2027, alongside appointing Joe Burnett, a Bitcoin expert, as the Director of Bitcoin Strategy to spearhead these initiatives.
While the Bitcoin holdings are a core focus of this merger, the newly formed company also plans to explore avenues for monetizing Semler Scientific’s profitable diagnostics business. This strategic approach aims to delve into the realm of preventative diagnostics, with an emphasis on the early detection of chronic diseases and broader wellness initiatives. This dual strategy is designed to balance financial growth through digital asset accumulation while furthering mission-driven objectives within the healthcare sector.
Matt Cole, Chairman and CEO of Strive, commented, “This merger cements Strive’s position as a top Bitcoin treasury company. We believe our capital structure and strategies position us to outperform Bitcoin over the long run.” Eric Semler, Executive Chairman of Semler Scientific, added, “This merger creates significant value for our stockholders by delivering a substantial premium and direct participation in one of the most innovative Bitcoin strategies in the public markets.”
With unanimous board backing and a shared vision for future growth, the merger is set to forge a robust platform for Bitcoin acquisition while simultaneously expanding into preventative healthcare solutions.