FaZe Clan to Go Public in $1B SPAC Merger

FaZe Clan announced plans on Monday to go public through a merger with blank-check company B. Riley Principal 150 Merger Corp, valuing the combined entity at $1 billion.

As part of the deal — expected to close in Q1 2022 — the esports company is raising roughly $291 million, which includes $118 million through a private placement.

The deal would give FaZe the highest-ever valuation for an esports company. Last year, FaZe was ranked the fourth-most valuable esports company at $305 million, while TSM ranked No. 1 at $401 million.

Known for its esports teams, FaZe is also a platform that allows content creators and entertainment professionals to build their brands through partnerships and social media.

• In August, it announced a sponsorship deal with McDonald’s.
• The same month, it secured a strategic investment from Cox Enterprises.
• In September, it announced a partnership with DC Comics to collaborate on a limited-edition comic book.
• The company’s creators include NFL quarterback Kyler Murray, NBA guard Ben Simmons, and LeBron “Bronny” James Jr.

FaZe reaches more than 350 million people worldwide across its social media platforms. The company expects sales to hit $50 million in 2021, up from $40 million last year.

Despite the increase, FaZe does not expect to be profitable for a few years.