FirstCash Holdings, Inc., a leading international operator of retail pawn stores, has announced its strategic acquisition of H&T Group plc, the largest pawn store operator in the United Kingdom. This move, valued at approximately £297 million or $394 million USD, marks FirstCash's entry into the UK market, expanding its global footprint beyond the United States and Latin America. The acquisition is expected to be significantly accretive to EBITDA and EPS, enhancing FirstCash's position as a global leader in pawn operations.

The deal, finalized through FirstCash's newly incorporated wholly-owned UK subsidiary, Chess Bidco Limited, involves a cash consideration of 650 pence per H&T share, plus a final dividend of 11 pence per share. This transaction not only diversifies FirstCash's geographic presence but also combines two industry-leading brands to create the largest publicly traded pawn platform across the US, Latin America, and the UK. Rick Wessel, CEO of FirstCash, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the growth opportunities it unlocks in a new and attractive market.

H&T Group, founded in 1897, operates over 270 shops across England, Scotland, and Wales, and has recently seen a surge in business due to the financial strain on households amid the cost of living crisis. The acquisition by FirstCash represents a 44% premium to H&T's closing share price before the announcement, underscoring the strategic value both parties see in the deal. Chris Gillespie, H&T's CEO, praised the acquisition for its compelling strategic rationale and the bright future it promises for H&T under FirstCash's ownership.

This transaction is another example of a major UK-listed company being acquired by a foreign entity, leading to its departure from the London Stock Exchange. It reflects broader trends in the global financial market, where companies seek to consolidate their positions through strategic acquisitions. The deal between FirstCash and H&T is a testament to the resilience and potential of the pawnbroking industry, especially in times of economic uncertainty.

Recent revelations have shed light on the early reservations held by a close confidante of the late Queen Elizabeth II regarding Meghan Markle's relationship with Prince Harry. Lady Elizabeth Anson, a cousin of the Queen and a respected figure within royal circles, reportedly expressed doubts about the sincerity of Meghan's feelings for Harry, suggesting that the former actress might have 'engineered' their romance. These claims, brought to light by royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith, highlight the tensions that existed within the royal family prior to the couple's 2018 wedding.

According to Bedell Smith's account, Lady Anson, who was known for her close relationship with the Queen and her role as a royal party planner, initially found Meghan to be 'full of charm' and 'intelligent and thoughtful' upon her engagement to Harry. However, as the wedding approached, Lady Anson's perspective shifted, leading her to question whether Meghan was truly in love with Harry or if she had orchestrated their relationship for personal gain. 'We hope but don't quite think she is in love. We think she engineered it all,' Lady Anson is reported to have said.

The biographer also recounts Lady Anson's concerns about the dynamic between Meghan and Harry, noting that Meghan's intelligence and strength could overshadow Harry's more subdued personality. 'Meghan is clearly brighter than Harry, but she has to be careful not to overshadow him,' Lady Anson allegedly remarked. These comments reflect the broader unease within parts of the royal family about the couple's compatibility and the potential challenges their union might bring to the monarchy.

In response to these claims, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has declined to comment, while a source close to the couple dismissed the allegations as 'just gossip.' Nonetheless, these revelations offer a glimpse into the private discussions and concerns that surrounded one of the most talked-about royal weddings in recent history, underscoring the complexities of integrating a Hollywood actress into the centuries-old traditions of the British royal family.