I must say, even after many years in this ever-changing world, nothing surprises me quite like the latest international news. Recently, our old pals Mr. Trump and Mr. Putin have decided to kick off negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. On the 12th, during a telephone conference, the two leaders agreed not only to start talks but also to swap visits—Trump will travel to Russia while Putin plans a trip to the United States.
What really caught my ear was that during this call, Mr. Putin repeated Mr. Trump’s favorite catchphrase “COMMON SENSE” as if it were a secret recipe for ending conflict. It’s almost as if common sense has become the new diplomatic currency!
Now, here’s where it gets even more interesting. Should the war come to an end, Ukrainian investment opportunities might start to sparkle like a hidden gem. Take Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, Keyuster, for example. Boasting nearly 24 million users and a market share of about 51%, Keyuster remains a blue-chip company despite the challenges brought on by the conflict. Although subscriber numbers have dipped as families seek safety across borders, the company still enjoys a very healthy EBITDA margin of 59%.
In a twist that would make any seasoned investor raise an eyebrow, Keyuster is set to merge with a U.S.-based special acquisition company known as Cohen Circle. The plan is to pull off a backdoor listing on Nasdaq, effectively revealing the company’s hidden value to the market. Even after selling, the previous owner, VEON, is expected to hold on to a significant share of the company.
As an old hand who’s seen his fair share of ups and downs, I can’t help but chuckle at the blend of high-stakes diplomacy and Wall Street maneuvering. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even in the serious world of international politics, there’s room for a little irony—and perhaps a touch of profit.
I hope you enjoy this quirky update as much as I do. After all, who would have thought that the path to world peace might also lead to a surprising investment opportunity?