Given that the original "Internet Zaibatsu", Softbank, has fallen on hard times, it is not so certain that DVIN's IPO is going to be "red hot". I still expect it to do well, but it is no longer a slam dunk.
Speaking of slam dunks, DVIN was mentioned at NewsMax.com today. They were talking about Michael Jordan's change of strategy. Now he wants an equity position in return for his endorsement and it just so happens that DVIN has taken him on board. It is not clear how Jordan's endorsement is going to help, but who knows? (Is that a million dollars or a million shares? Does it matter?):
"Air Jordan No More
Michael Jordan may have earned more than $500 million during his NBA career -- mostly from lucrative endorsement contracts -- but sees his real potential teaming up with dotcom companies.
Jordan last week announced he planned on ending his days as a paid endorser for the like of Nike, Ballpark Franks, Hanes, MCI and the like.
Some pundits think this may be a wise move. Jordan has oversaturated the market with his image -- and Nike sales were down after Jordan left the NBA.
Just in case you thought your Jordan fatigue was over from one too many commercial pitches, he still plans on doing some TV endorsements.
But Jordan will only lend his name, and his smile, to companies that pay him in equity -- giving him shares for his endorsement.
Recently Jordan signed a deal with Divine InterVentures, a company that focuses on business-to-business web sites. Jordan is set to get $1 million shares in the company's pre-IPO stock. The company plans on going public at $7 a share.
This deal is in addition to Jordan's sports web site, MVP.com, which also includes NFL great John Elway and NHL champion Wayne Gretzky.
Monday, March 27, 2000 8:55 AM EST" |
