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The Evolution of Leveraged Buyouts

The article examines the evolution of leveraged buyouts (LBOs) from their inception in the 1980s to their current state, highlighting changes in financial practices, market dynamics, and regulatory environments. It discusses the impact of technological advancements, the global financial crisis, and the growing importance of ESG factors on LBO strategies. The analysis provides insights into the implications of LBOs for corporate governance, investor behavior, and the overall economy.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
34 views13 pages

The Evolution of Leveraged Buyouts

The article examines the evolution of leveraged buyouts (LBOs) from their inception in the 1980s to their current state, highlighting changes in financial practices, market dynamics, and regulatory environments. It discusses the impact of technological advancements, the global financial crisis, and the growing importance of ESG factors on LBO strategies. The analysis provides insights into the implications of LBOs for corporate governance, investor behavior, and the overall economy.

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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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The Evolution of Leveraged Buyouts: A Re-examination of Financial Practices


and Market Implications

Article · February 2016

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The Evolution of Leveraged Buyouts: A Re-examination of
Financial Practices and Market Implications
Author; Gideon Areo

Date; February, 2016

Abstract

The article explores the evolution of leveraged buyouts (LBOs) as a financial practice and their
lasting impact on market dynamics. From their early development in the 1980s to the modern-
day landscape, LBOs have undergone significant transformations in terms of structure, financing,
and strategic objectives. This re-examination delves into the key drivers behind these changes,
such as regulatory shifts, technological advancements, and evolving market conditions. The
article also addresses the broader market implications of LBOs, particularly in terms of corporate
governance, investor behavior, and risk management. By analyzing historical data and case
studies, it offers insights into the future of LBOs and their role in the global economy.

Keywords: Leveraged Buyouts (LBOs), Financial Practices, Market Implications, Corporate


Governance, Private Equity, Risk Management, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), Investment
Strategies, Financial Markets, Regulatory Changes

1. Introduction

Leveraged buyouts (LBOs) are a significant financial practice that has transformed the landscape
of corporate acquisitions and restructuring since their emergence in the 1980s. An LBO is a
financial transaction in which a company is purchased using a combination of equity and a
substantial amount of borrowed capital. The buyer typically contributes a small portion of the
acquisition price, while the remaining amount is financed through debt secured against the assets
of the acquired company. This method allows investors to make large acquisitions while
committing only a modest amount of their own capital.

In the early days, LBOs became synonymous with aggressive takeover strategies, particularly
during the 1980s, when high-profile deals such as the RJR Nabisco acquisition by Kohlberg
Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) captivated both the financial world and the public. The use of high
levels of debt, often termed "junk bonds," raised concerns about the risks of such transactions,
especially when the economy began to show signs of strain. Despite these concerns, LBOs
continued to evolve, becoming an integral part of the private equity landscape and corporate
finance strategies.

This article aims to re-examine the evolution of leveraged buyouts, exploring how financial
practices related to LBOs have changed over time and the implications these changes have had
on broader market dynamics. The scope of this study covers the key drivers behind these
changes, such as shifts in regulatory environments, advancements in technology, and the
growing influence of institutional investors. Additionally, it will consider the market
implications of LBOs, particularly in terms of corporate governance, the financial health of
target companies, and the broader economic consequences.

The significance of re-examining the evolution of LBOs lies in the continued relevance of this
financial tool in today's market. With the rise of institutional investors, regulatory changes, and
the increasing importance of sustainability and governance in investment strategies,
understanding how LBOs have adapted to these pressures is critical for investors, policymakers,
and academics. By analyzing historical data, contemporary trends, and case studies, this article
will provide a comprehensive view of how LBOs have shaped the financial world and will
continue to do so in the future.

2. The Early Days of Leveraged Buyouts

2.1 The Rise of LBOs in the 1980s

The concept of leveraging debt to finance corporate acquisitions is not new. However, it was in
the 1980s that leveraged buyouts gained prominence as a popular means of taking public
companies private. LBOs became a hallmark of aggressive corporate takeover strategies, with
firms like Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) pioneering large-scale LBOs. One of the most
iconic LBO transactions during this period was the $25 billion acquisition of RJR Nabisco,
which made headlines as the largest buyout in history at the time.

The 1980s saw the widespread use of high-yield bonds, often referred to as "junk bonds," to
finance these transactions. These bonds carried higher interest rates due to the perceived risk of
the companies being acquired, but they also allowed acquirers to raise significant capital for
purchasing firms. As debt markets flourished, the LBO boom seemed poised for sustained
growth, and many companies across various industries, particularly in consumer goods and
manufacturing, became the target of buyouts.

The success of these early LBOs was driven by several factors. First, the prevailing economic
conditions of the 1980s—characterized by relatively high interest rates and a growing stock
market—made borrowing attractive. Moreover, tax policies that favored debt financing allowed
LBO firms to deduct interest payments, effectively reducing the cost of borrowing. These
conditions provided a fertile ground for private equity firms to pursue large-scale acquisitions
using relatively small equity contributions, making LBOs an appealing option for both investors
and companies seeking to go private.

2.2 Financial Mechanisms of Early LBOs

The financial structure of early LBOs typically involved a high degree of debt financing, often in
the form of leveraged loans and junk bonds. In many cases, the target company’s assets would be
used as collateral to secure loans. This allowed acquirers to purchase companies with a relatively
small upfront capital investment while assuming a significant amount of risk through debt. The
strategy was based on the belief that the acquired company could generate enough cash flow to
service the debt and ultimately produce a return on investment through improved operational
efficiencies or asset sales.

The typical LBO deal structure involved a mix of equity provided by the private equity firm and
debt provided by commercial banks, investment banks, or through the issuance of high-yield
bonds. The debt-to-equity ratio varied, but it was not uncommon for LBOs in the 1980s to carry
debt loads of 70% or more. This reliance on debt made LBOs highly risky, particularly if the
target company struggled to generate sufficient cash flow to service the debt.

2.3 The Economic Climate of the 1980s

The economic environment of the 1980s played a critical role in the proliferation of LBOs. The
decade was marked by high inflation and interest rates, which led to a surge in the issuance of
junk bonds and other forms of debt. Additionally, regulatory changes, including tax reforms that
allowed for greater deductions of interest expenses, further fueled the growth of LBOs. These
favorable conditions made it easier for private equity firms to leverage their investments and
pursue buyouts that would have otherwise been financially prohibitive.

The economic backdrop of the 1980s also saw an increase in corporate restructuring. Many large
corporations faced declining profitability and sought ways to increase shareholder value. The
LBO model offered a solution by enabling private equity firms to acquire undervalued
companies, restructure them, and ultimately sell them for a profit.

3. The Changing Landscape of Leveraged Buyouts

3.1 The 1990s to Early 2000s

The LBO market continued to evolve through the 1990s and early 2000s, with private equity
firms consolidating their influence in the financial world. During this period, LBOs became
increasingly sophisticated, as firms adopted new strategies and financial structures to adapt to
changing market conditions. While high-yield bonds remained a key component of LBO
financing, other methods of financing—such as syndicated loans and mezzanine debt—began to
gain prominence.

The 1990s also saw the growth of private equity firms as the dominant players in the LBO
market. Firms like Blackstone, Carlyle Group, and Apollo Global Management expanded their
operations, competing for increasingly larger deals. During this time, LBOs became more
international in scope, with private equity firms pursuing acquisitions in Europe and Asia,
expanding the reach and impact of leveraged buyouts across global markets.

3.2 The Role of Technology and Innovation


Advancements in technology during the 1990s and early 2000s significantly impacted the way
LBOs were structured and executed. Improvements in data analytics, financial modeling, and
risk assessment tools made it easier for private equity firms to evaluate potential deals and
manage the risks associated with highly leveraged transactions. The development of financial
software allowed firms to quickly assess the financial health of potential acquisition targets and
better understand the implications of various financing structures.

Technology also played a role in improving the operational efficiency of companies post-
acquisition. Many private equity firms began to adopt a more hands-on approach to management,
leveraging their expertise in operational improvements, cost-cutting strategies, and technology
integration to boost the performance of acquired companies.

3.3 Regulatory Shifts

The 1990s and early 2000s were also marked by significant changes in the regulatory landscape.
Government policies began to evolve in response to the perceived risks associated with high
levels of debt financing. The introduction of stricter antitrust regulations and changes to tax laws
had a direct impact on how LBOs were structured and executed. These shifts created new
challenges for private equity firms, as they had to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory
environment.

For example, the passing of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, in response to corporate scandals
like Enron and WorldCom, introduced stricter accounting and disclosure requirements for
publicly traded companies. This had a lasting effect on the LBO market, as firms had to ensure
that their acquisitions adhered to these new regulations, which could complicate the buyout
process.

4. Modern-Day Leveraged Buyouts

4.1 The Impact of the Global Financial Crisis (2007-2008)

The global financial crisis (GFC) of 2007-2008 had a profound impact on the leveraged buyout
market. Prior to the crisis, LBOs had become larger, more complex, and more frequent, driven
by an abundance of cheap credit, low interest rates, and a globalized financial environment.
However, the onset of the crisis marked a sharp decline in LBO activity as financial markets
froze, credit became scarce, and risk aversion increased among institutional investors and
lenders.

During the GFC, many private equity firms faced difficulties servicing the high levels of debt
incurred during LBOs. Several highly leveraged companies found themselves unable to meet
debt obligations, leading to bankruptcies, forced asset sales, and restructuring. The lack of
liquidity in the financial markets further constrained the ability of private equity firms to finance
new acquisitions, and many firms were forced to delay or abandon planned buyouts.
The crisis also highlighted the risks associated with the excessive use of leverage in LBOs, with
critics pointing to the unsustainable levels of debt that many acquired companies were saddled
with. As a result, LBOs began to undergo a shift toward more conservative financing structures,
with lower levels of debt and a greater emphasis on operational improvements and long-term
value creation.

4.2 The Current Market Environment

Today, the leveraged buyout market has rebounded from the GFC, albeit with some notable
changes in its structure and approach. The recovery has been characterized by the return of
private equity firms to the market, but with more cautious financial strategies. Debt-to-equity
ratios have decreased, and there is a greater focus on sustainable growth and value creation,
rather than rapid asset stripping and short-term profits.

The market environment for LBOs is also shaped by global macroeconomic trends, including
low interest rates in many developed economies, which have made debt more affordable and
enabled leveraged buyouts to continue as a viable strategy. However, these low interest rates
have also led to increased competition among private equity firms for attractive acquisition
targets. As a result, valuations for potential target companies have risen, which in turn has led to
a more strategic approach to identifying suitable acquisitions.

The types of companies targeted in LBOs have also evolved. While the focus in the past was
largely on manufacturing and consumer goods companies, modern LBOs are increasingly
concentrated in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and services. Technology-driven
companies, in particular, are attractive targets for LBOs due to their scalability, potential for
operational improvements, and ability to generate high margins.

4.3 The Role of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Factors

Another significant shift in modern LBOs is the growing importance of environmental, social,
and governance (ESG) factors in the investment process. As investors, consumers, and regulators
have become more concerned with sustainability and corporate responsibility, private equity
firms have begun incorporating ESG considerations into their decision-making processes.

For example, private equity firms are increasingly focused on the long-term sustainability of
their portfolio companies, prioritizing environmental impact, ethical labor practices, and
governance standards. These considerations are not only driven by moral imperatives but also by
the growing recognition that companies with strong ESG practices tend to outperform their peers
over the long term. This trend has reshaped the way LBOs are executed, as firms now focus
more on creating value through operational efficiency, sustainable growth, and responsible
business practices.

4.4 Digital Transformation in LBOs

In recent years, the rise of digital technologies and automation has also influenced the way LBOs
are structured and executed. Private equity firms are increasingly utilizing data analytics,
artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to enhance their due diligence processes and
identify hidden value in target companies. These technologies allow for better financial
modeling, more accurate risk assessments, and more efficient integration post-acquisition.

The integration of digital tools into LBOs has also improved operational efficiency in portfolio
companies. For example, firms can now leverage AI to streamline business operations, improve
supply chain management, and optimize marketing strategies. As a result, companies acquired
through LBOs can achieve greater growth and profitability, which in turn benefits private equity
firms and their investors.

5. Key Drivers of LBO Evolution

Driver Impact on LBOs


Financial The development of new financial products and techniques, such as
Innovation syndicated loans and mezzanine debt, has allowed for more flexible and
sophisticated financing of LBOs.
Market Liquidity Periods of high liquidity and low interest rates have facilitated high
volumes of LBO activity, while market crises (e.g., the GFC) have
constrained deal-making and altered financing structures.
Regulatory Shifts in tax laws, antitrust regulations, and corporate governance
Changes requirements have shaped the structuring of LBOs, with firms adapting to
ensure compliance while maximizing returns.
Technological The adoption of digital tools, data analytics, and AI has improved the
Advancements efficiency of LBO execution, from due diligence to post-acquisition
integration.
Investor The growing influence of institutional investors and the rise of ESG
Preferences considerations have led to more strategic, long-term approaches to LBOs,
focusing on sustainability and responsible investing.

6. Market Implications of Leveraged Buyouts

6.1 Impact on Corporate Governance

One of the key implications of LBOs is their impact on corporate governance. When a company
is taken private in an LBO, its ownership structure typically changes, and decision-making is
often more concentrated in the hands of the private equity firm or its affiliates. This can lead to a
shift in the company's governance structure, with changes to the board of directors and executive
leadership. In some cases, private equity firms may replace top executives and implement more
aggressive cost-cutting measures, leading to improved operational efficiencies. However, this
centralization of control can sometimes reduce the influence of minority shareholders and other
stakeholders.

Additionally, LBOs have been criticized for fostering a "short-termism" mentality, where private
equity firms prioritize rapid returns on investment over long-term growth. While this may be
beneficial for investors in the short run, it can undermine the long-term strategic direction of the
company.

6.2 Financial and Operational Impacts on Target Companies

The financial and operational impact of LBOs on target companies varies widely, depending on
the specific terms of the deal and the effectiveness of the post-acquisition strategy. In many
cases, LBOs can lead to significant operational improvements, as private equity firms implement
more efficient management practices, cut costs, and streamline operations. The influx of capital
can also allow companies to make strategic acquisitions and invest in new technologies that drive
growth.

However, the high levels of debt associated with LBOs can place a strain on the acquired
company's balance sheet. In cases where the company is unable to meet its debt obligations, it
may be forced to restructure, sell assets, or even declare bankruptcy. This can result in job losses,
plant closures, and other negative consequences for employees and communities.

6.3 Effect on Financial Markets and the Economy

On a broader scale, LBOs have implications for financial markets and the economy. The use of
high levels of debt in LBOs can contribute to market volatility, particularly during periods of
economic downturns when companies may struggle to service their debt. The cyclical nature of
LBO activity—peaking during periods of economic boom and declining during recessions—can
also exacerbate financial instability.

Moreover, the proliferation of LBOs has contributed to the growth of the private equity industry,
which now represents a significant portion of global capital markets. This growth has led to
greater competition among private equity firms and increased pressure on companies to adopt
more efficient and profitable business models.

6.4 Social and Ethical Considerations

Despite the financial success that many LBOs have achieved, the practice has been criticized for
its negative social and ethical implications. Critics argue that the excessive use of leverage in
LBOs can lead to job cuts, wage reductions, and the stripping of valuable assets from companies.
In some cases, private equity firms have been accused of prioritizing profits over the well-being
of employees, communities, and other stakeholders.

To address these concerns, some private equity firms have adopted more socially responsible
investment strategies, focusing on long-term value creation and incorporating ESG criteria into
their investment processes. While these efforts are promising, the ethical challenges associated
with LBOs remain a significant topic of debate.

7. Notable Case Studies of Leveraged Buyouts

7.1 The RJR Nabisco LBO (1988)

The RJR Nabisco buyout remains one of the most iconic and high-profile LBOs in history. This
$25 billion deal, led by private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR), set the stage
for the era of large-scale LBOs in the 1980s. The transaction was notable not only for its size but
also for the intense bidding war that ensued between KKR and RJR Nabisco’s management
team, led by CEO F. Ross Johnson.

The RJR Nabisco deal showcased the aggressive nature of LBOs at the time, using a significant
amount of debt to finance the acquisition. The deal was funded primarily through junk bonds,
and the target company’s assets were heavily leveraged to secure the financing. Though the deal
was ultimately successful for KKR, it demonstrated the risks associated with high levels of debt,
particularly as the financial markets became more volatile in the years following the acquisition.

Post-buyout, KKR implemented a series of cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and


restructuring, and ultimately sold off non-core assets. However, the massive debt burden placed
on the company severely constrained its ability to invest in long-term growth initiatives. The
RJR Nabisco buyout exemplified both the potential rewards and significant risks associated with
highly leveraged transactions.

7.2 The Dell LBO (2013)

In 2013, Michael Dell, the founder of Dell Technologies, and private equity firm Silver Lake
Partners orchestrated a $24.4 billion LBO to take the company private. The deal was significant
for several reasons: it represented a major transformation for a technology company that had
once been a leader in personal computers but was struggling to maintain its competitive edge.
Dell had seen its market share erode as consumers increasingly favored tablets and smartphones
over traditional desktop computers.

The deal was financed with a mix of debt and equity, with Dell himself contributing a large
portion of the equity. This LBO marked a turning point for the company, as it allowed Dell to
refocus on enterprise solutions and services, shifting away from the declining PC business. The
privatization also allowed Dell to make bold investments in technology without the pressure of
quarterly earnings reports.

After the buyout, Dell focused on transforming itself into a more diversified technology
company. It acquired EMC Corporation, one of the largest technology deals at the time, and
successfully integrated the company’s storage and cloud infrastructure businesses. This case
study shows how an LBO can be used as a tool for corporate transformation, particularly when
companies face significant challenges in a rapidly changing market.

7.3 The Toys "R" Us LBO (2005)

The Toys "R" Us LBO, led by a consortium of private equity firms including KKR, Bain Capital,
and Vornado Realty Trust, was one of the most controversial LBOs of the 2000s. The deal,
valued at $6.6 billion, was funded largely by debt, with the company assuming a substantial
amount of financial obligations post-acquisition.

While the buyout initially allowed Toys "R" Us to become more competitive in the retail space,
the heavy debt load proved unsustainable, especially as the company faced increasing
competition from online retailers like Amazon. The firm struggled to maintain profitability due
to the high interest payments and its inability to innovate in a rapidly changing retail landscape.
Ultimately, the debt burden led to the company filing for bankruptcy in 2017, marking the end of
an era for the iconic toy retailer.

The Toys "R" Us LBO serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating how excessive leverage in an
LBO can lead to disastrous outcomes, particularly when the target company is unable to adapt to
changing market dynamics or generate sufficient cash flow to service its debt. The collapse of
Toys "R" Us also raised questions about the role of private equity firms in shaping the long-term
viability of acquired companies, particularly in industries undergoing rapid disruption.

8. The Future of Leveraged Buyouts

8.1 Evolving Market Conditions

The future of leveraged buyouts will be shaped by a combination of market conditions,


regulatory changes, and evolving investor preferences. One of the key factors influencing the
future of LBOs is the state of the global economy. With central banks in many developed
markets maintaining low interest rates, there is a continued availability of cheap credit, which
makes debt financing more attractive for private equity firms.

However, economic uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and market volatility could pose challenges
to LBO activity in the coming years. If interest rates rise or if financial markets experience
further turbulence, private equity firms may face difficulties in securing the necessary debt
financing for large-scale LBOs. Additionally, concerns about economic inequality and the social
impacts of highly leveraged transactions may lead to increased scrutiny from regulators,
policymakers, and the public.

8.2 Impact of Technology and Innovation

As digital transformation continues to reshape industries, private equity firms will likely see
greater opportunities for leveraging technology to enhance the value of acquired companies.
Digital tools, AI, and data analytics will continue to play a significant role in improving the
efficiency of LBOs, from due diligence processes to post-acquisition integration. Technology-
driven companies will likely remain attractive targets for LBOs, especially those in the software,
cybersecurity, and fintech sectors.

Moreover, the rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning could allow
private equity firms to create more value post-acquisition by optimizing business operations.
This could make LBOs more appealing to investors and less risky for both buyers and sellers.

8.3 The Role of ESG Factors in Shaping LBOs

The growing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors will likely continue
to influence the future of leveraged buyouts. As institutional investors increasingly prioritize
sustainable and responsible investing, private equity firms are under pressure to integrate ESG
considerations into their LBO strategies. Companies that demonstrate strong ESG performance
may be more attractive targets for buyouts, as they are expected to offer higher long-term returns
and lower risks.

In addition, the regulatory environment surrounding ESG issues is expected to become more
stringent, as governments worldwide adopt stricter regulations on corporate sustainability. This
shift could impact the way LBOs are structured, with private equity firms needing to account for
ESG performance in their due diligence processes and value assessments.

8.4 Greater Focus on Long-Term Value Creation

Looking ahead, there may be a greater emphasis on long-term value creation in LBOs, rather
than focusing solely on short-term profits. This shift could be driven by both changing investor
preferences and the increasing importance of ESG considerations. Private equity firms may
prioritize strategies that promote sustainable growth, improve operational efficiencies, and
enhance corporate governance.

For example, there may be more focus on investing in companies that have strong environmental
and social commitments or are positioned to benefit from long-term trends such as renewable
energy, digital transformation, and healthcare innovation. This shift in focus would mark a
significant departure from the more traditional, profit-maximizing model of LBOs that often
prioritized asset sales and cost-cutting measures.

9. Implications for Investors and Policymakers

9.1 For Investors: Strategic Adaptation and Risk Management

For investors, the future of leveraged buyouts presents both opportunities and challenges. While
LBOs can still offer significant returns, they also come with risks, particularly as markets
become more volatile and the regulatory environment becomes more complex. Investors will
need to adapt their strategies to account for these risks and focus on long-term value creation,
especially in light of rising ESG expectations.

A key strategy for investors will be to diversify their portfolios, balancing LBO investments with
other forms of private equity, venture capital, and alternative assets. This diversification will help
mitigate risks associated with specific sectors or companies and improve the overall stability of
their investment strategies.

9.2 For Policymakers: Regulatory Oversight and Consumer Protection

Policymakers have an important role to play in shaping the future of LBOs, particularly in terms
of regulatory oversight and consumer protection. While LBOs can be a powerful tool for driving
corporate growth and restructuring, they also raise concerns about financial stability, job
security, and market fairness.

Policymakers should consider creating regulations that ensure private equity firms engage in
responsible lending and investing practices, especially in industries that impact consumers or
employees. This could involve enhancing transparency in LBO deals, strengthening disclosure
requirements, and ensuring that companies maintain sound corporate governance practices post-
acquisition.

Furthermore, regulators may need to address concerns around the increasing concentration of
market power in the hands of a few private equity firms, which could lead to anti-competitive
behavior or market instability. As LBOs continue to evolve, it will be essential for policymakers
to strike a balance between fostering a competitive, dynamic market and ensuring that the
interests of consumers, employees, and other stakeholders are protected.

10. Conclusion

Leveraged buyouts have undergone a significant evolution since their inception in the 1980s.
From their origins as a tool for aggressive corporate takeovers, LBOs have transformed into a
sophisticated and widely-used financial strategy employed by private equity firms to drive
growth, improve operational efficiencies, and create long-term value. While the history of LBOs
has been marked by periods of intense boom and bust, recent trends indicate that the future of
LBOs will be shaped by a more cautious and strategic approach, with a greater emphasis on
sustainability, governance, and long-term value creation.

As private equity firms continue to adapt to changing market conditions, technological


advancements, and increasing ESG expectations, LBOs will likely remain a key feature of the
corporate finance landscape. For investors and policymakers, understanding the evolving
dynamics of LBOs will be critical to navigating the complexities of this powerful financial tool
and ensuring its continued success in a rapidly changing global economy.
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