The Latest SPAC News and Rumors: March 20, 2023

Below is a daily summary of links to the latest SPAC news and rumors gathered across the web. 

Latest SPAC News:  Virgin Orbit plans for insolvency amid rescue talks with investors, WeWork reaches deal to cut debt, and Pear Therapeutics explores “strategic alternatives”

Virgin Orbit plans for insolvency amid rescue talks with investors

Sky News has learned that the commercial space satellite venture founded by Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group is working with Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) and Ducera, two restructuring firms, on fallback plans in the event that it cannot secure new funding.

The decision to line up the advisers underlines the parlous nature of Virgin Orbit’s (NASDAQ:VORB) finances, even as it continues talks with a small number of prospective investors about providing sufficient funding to restart its operations.

After going public in 2021 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company in a $3.7bn (£3bn) deal, its listed shares are now valued at just $217m (£177m).

WeWork reaches deal to cut debt, extend maturities

WeWork Inc. (NYSE:WE) said on Friday it had struck deals to cut debt by about $1.5 billion and extend the date of some maturities, in a bid to preserve cash as the flexible-workspace provider feels the heat of mass layoffs on its business.

WeWork said it will also infuse the company with about $540 million in new funding.

Pear Therapeutics seeking a financial lifeline

Pear Therapeutics (NASDAQ:PEAR) said Friday it is exploring “strategic alternatives” and may need to restructure or fold if its efforts fail.

The digital therapeutics company is seeking a potential sale, merger, acquisition, divestiture of assets, licensing agreement or other strategic transactions, or additional financing, it said in a Friday filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Without outside financial help, Pear said it may need to liquidate or restructure.

Pear Therapeutics went public in December 2021 in a $1.6 billion deal with a special purpose acquisition company Thimble Point Acquisition Corp.