PRER14A 1 d137147dprer14a.htm PRER14A PRER14A
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

(Amendment No. 1)

 

 

Filed by the Registrant  ☒                             Filed by a party other than the Registrant  ☐

Check the appropriate box:

 

  Preliminary Proxy Statement
  Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
  Definitive Proxy Statement
  Definitive Additional Materials
  Soliciting Material Under §240.14a-12

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

  No fee required.
  Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
  (1)  

Title of each class of securities to which the transaction applies:

 

     

  (2)  

Aggregate number of securities to which the transaction applies:

 

     

  (3)  

Per unit price or other underlying value of the transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

 

     

  (4)  

Proposed maximum aggregate value of the transaction:

 

     

  (5)  

Total fee paid:

 

     

  Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
  Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
  (1)  

Amount previously paid:

 

     

  (2)  

Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

 

     

  (3)  

Filing party:

 

     

  (4)  

Date Filed:

 

     

 

 

 


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PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT – SUBJECT TO COMPLETION

PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION—YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT

 

 

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. (“HGV”) and Dakota Holdings, Inc. (“Diamond”), which indirectly owns all of the interests in Diamond Resorts International, Inc., have entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 10, 2021 (the “merger agreement”), providing for the acquisition of Diamond by HGV through a series of transactions (the “merger”). After the completion of the merger, Diamond will cease to exist as an entity and all of its assets and liabilities will be held by Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV (“Merger Sub” or “HGV Borrower”).

If the merger is completed, HGV currently anticipates issuing approximately 34,675,385 shares of its common stock (“HGV common stock”) to current Diamond stockholders (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021), subject to certain adjustments as a result of changes in certain liabilities and other items between signing and closing. As a result, based on Diamond’s current capitalization, HGV currently anticipates issuing approximately 0.320 shares of HGV common stock (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021), plus cash in lieu of any fractional shares, without interest, for each share of Diamond Class A common stock that Diamond stockholders own other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares, and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond. This exchange ratio will not be adjusted to reflect stock price changes before the completion of the merger, but is subject to certain adjustments as a result of changes in certain liabilities and other items between signing and closing. Based on the closing price of HGV common stock of $40.57 on March 9, 2021, the last trading day before public announcement of the merger agreement, this estimated merger consideration represented an implied value of $ • per share of Diamond Class A common stock. Based on the closing price of HGV common stock of $ • on • , 2021, the latest practicable date before the printing of this proxy statement, this estimated merger consideration represented an implied value of $ • per share of Diamond Class A common stock.

The value of the merger consideration will fluctuate with the market price of HGV common stock, which is currently traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) under the symbol “HGV.”

The obligations of HGV and Diamond to complete the merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of a number of conditions set forth in the merger agreement, a copy of which is included as Annex A to this proxy statement, including stockholder approval of the issuance of our common stock in connection with the proposed merger.

HGV will hold a special meeting of its stockholders in connection with the issuance of HGV common stock in the proposed merger. Your vote is very important. Please submit a proxy to vote your shares as promptly as possible so that your shares may be represented and voted at the special meeting. The HGV board of directors unanimously recommends that HGV stockholders vote “FOR” each of the proposals being submitted to a vote of HGV stockholders at the special meeting.

This proxy statement contains detailed information about HGV, the special meeting, the merger agreement and the merger. You should read this proxy statement carefully and in its entirety before voting, including the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 22 of this proxy statement. We look forward to HGV’s successful acquisition of Diamond.

Sincerely,

Mark D. Wang

Chief Executive Officer

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.

This proxy statement is dated     , 2021 and is first being mailed to HGV stockholders on or about     , 2021.


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LOGO

•     , 2021

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

Dear Fellow Stockholder:

We are pleased to invite you to attend the special meeting of stockholders (the “special meeting”) of Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. (“HGV”), a Delaware corporation, which will be held at •     , on •     , 2021 at •     a.m., Eastern time, for the following purposes:

 

   

to consider and vote on the proposal to issue shares of HGV common stock to Diamond stockholders (the “stock issuance proposal”) under the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 10, 2021, by and among HGV, Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV (“Merger Sub” or “HGV Borrower”), Dakota Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Diamond”) that is controlled by investment funds and vehicles managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Apollo”), and the stockholders of Diamond, a copy of which is included as Annex A to the proxy statement of which this notice is a part (the “merger agreement”);

 

   

to vote upon the proposal to approve, on an advisory (non-binding) basis, the merger-related named executive officer compensation that will or may be paid to HGV’s named executive officers in connection with the merger (the “compensation proposal”); and

 

   

to vote upon the proposal to adjourn the special meeting, if necessary or appropriate, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes to approve the stock issuance proposal (the “adjournment proposal” and together with the stock issuance proposal and compensation proposal, the “proposals”).

HGV will transact no other business at the special meeting except such business as may properly be brought before the special meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof. Please refer to the proxy statement of which this notice is a part for further information on the business to be transacted at the special meeting.

HGV’s board of directors has unanimously approved the merger agreement and the acquisition of Diamond by HGV through a series of transactions as provided in the merger agreement (the “merger”) and determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, and the issuance of shares of HGV common stock to Diamond stockholders under the merger agreement, are advisable and in the best interests of HGV and its stockholders. HGV’s board of directors unanimously recommends that HGV stockholders vote “FOR” each of the proposals being submitted to a vote of stockholders at the special meeting.

HGV’s board of directors has fixed the close of business on •     , 2021 as the record date (the “record date”) for determining HGV stockholders entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof. Only holders of record of HGV common stock at the close of business on the record date are entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting. The presence of the holders of a majority in voting power of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the special meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, is required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the special meeting. To ensure that your vote is counted, please provide your voting instructions as soon as possible, even if you plan to attend the special meeting in person. We encourage you to vote via the internet or by telephone. You also have the option of voting by completing, signing, dating and returning the proxy card that accompanied the printed materials. Submitting your vote via the internet or by telephone or proxy card will not affect your right to vote in person if you decide to attend the special meeting.


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The approval of the stock issuance proposal and the compensation proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. The approval of the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, requires the affirmative vote of the stockholders of a majority in voting power present if a quorum is not present, or, if a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. Abstentions, failures to vote and broker non-votes, if any, will have no effect on the outcome of the stock issuance proposal, compensation proposal or any vote on the adjournment proposal. A list of the names of HGV stockholders of record will be open to the examination by any stockholder for any purpose germane to the special meeting for ten days before the special meeting during regular business hours at HGV’s headquarters, 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839. The HGV stockholder list will also be available at the special meeting for examination by any stockholder present at such meeting.

Your vote is very important. Whether or not you expect to attend the special meeting, we urge you to submit a proxy to vote your shares as promptly as possible by either (1) accessing the internet website specified on your proxy card and following the on-screen instructions; (2) calling the toll-free number specified on your proxy card; or (3) signing, dating and mailing your proxy card in the postage-paid envelope provided as soon as possible, so that your shares may be represented and voted at the special meeting.

This proxy statement provides a detailed description of the merger agreement and the merger as well as a description of the issuance of shares of HGV common stock to Diamond stockholders under the merger agreement. We urge you to read this proxy statement, including any documents incorporated by reference, and the Annexes carefully and in their entirety. If you have any questions concerning the merger agreement, the merger or this proxy statement, would like additional copies of this document, or need help voting your shares of HGV common stock, please contact HGV’s proxy solicitor:

Okapi Partners LLC

1212 Avenue of the Americas, 24th Floor

New York, New York 10036

Banks and brokers call: +1-212-297-0720

Stockholders and all others call toll-free: (888) 785-6707

Email: info@okapipartners.com

As always, thank you for the confidence that you have placed in us. We are excited about HGV’s proposed acquisition of Diamond.

Sincerely,

By Order of the Board of Directors,

Leonard A. Potter

Chairman of the Board of Directors


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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This proxy statement incorporates by reference important business and financial information about HGV from other documents that are not included in or delivered with this proxy statement. For a listing of the documents incorporated by reference into this proxy statement, see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement. This information is available to you without charge upon your written or oral request. You can obtain the documents incorporated by reference into this document through the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) website at www.sec.gov or by requesting them in writing or by telephone at Investor Relations, Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32839, telephone number (407) 613-3100, or by email to IR@hgv.com

You may also obtain documents incorporated by reference into this proxy statement by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Okapi Partners LLC, HGV’s proxy solicitor, at the following addresses and telephone numbers:

Okapi Partners LLC

1212 Avenue of the Americas, 24th Floor

New York, New York 10036

Banks and brokers call: +1-212-297-0720

Stockholders and all others call toll-free: (888) 785-6707

Email: info@okapipartners.com

To receive timely delivery of the documents in advance of the special meeting, you should make your request no later than five business days before the date of the special meeting, or no later than • , 2021.


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ABOUT THIS PROXY STATEMENT

This proxy statement constitutes a proxy statement for HGV under Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). It also constitutes a notice of meeting for the special meeting.

No one has been authorized to provide you with information that is different from that contained in, or incorporated by reference into, this proxy statement and we take no responsibility for, and cannot provide any assurances as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. This proxy statement is dated •     , 2021. You should not assume that the information contained in this proxy statement is accurate as of any date other than that date. You should not assume that the information incorporated by reference into this proxy statement is accurate as of any date other than the date of the incorporated document. Neither the mailing of this proxy statement to our stockholders nor the issuance by us of shares of our common stock, par value $0.01 per share, under the merger agreement will create any implication to the contrary.

In addition, Apollo and Diamond have supplied all information contained in this proxy statement relating to Apollo, Diamond and their affiliates, including, without limitation, information about their businesses, properties, and risk factors, and various financial statements and accounting information and data that pertain to the Diamond business. We, Apollo and Diamond all contributed information to this proxy statement relating to the proposed transaction

All references in this proxy statement to “HGV,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., a Delaware corporation; all references in this proxy statement to “Apollo” refers to Apollo Global Management, Inc. together with its subsidiaries; all references in this proxy statement to the “Apollo Funds” refer to investment funds managed by Apollo Management VIII, L.P.; all references in this proxy statement to the “Apollo Investors” refer to AP VIII Dakota Holdings, L.P. and AP Dakota Co-Invest, L.P., collectively, who are affiliates of the Apollo Funds and stockholders of Diamond; all references in this proxy statement to “DRI” refer to Diamond Resorts International, Inc., a Delaware corporation that owns and operates all of Diamond’s timeshare business; all references in this proxy statement to “Diamond” or “Dakota Holdings” refer to Dakota Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation which is currently the parent entity of DRI and prior to the merger DRI, through a series of transactions will be merged with and into Dakota Holdings, with Dakota Holdings being the surviving corporation; all references in this proxy statement to “Merger Sub” or “HGV Borrower” refer to Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of HGV; and unless otherwise indicated or as the context requires, all references to the “merger agreement” refer to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 10, 2021, by and among HGV, HGV Borrower, Diamond, the Apollo Investors, and the other stockholders of Diamond, a copy of which is included as Annex A to this proxy statement.

All brand trademarks, service marks or trade names cited in this report are the property of their respective holders, including those of other companies and organizations. Solely for convenience, trademarks, trade names and service marks referred to in this report appear without the ® or symbols, however such references are not intended to indicate in any way that we, Diamond, or the owner, as applicable, will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, all rights to such, trademarks, trade names and service marks.

We have the exclusive rights to use the Hilton Grand Vacations Club® and Hilton Club® brands for vacation ownership and related products pursuant to our license agreement, as amended, with Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (“Hilton”).


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

SUMMARY TERM SHEET

     1  

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE TRANSACTIONS AND SPECIAL MEETING

     3  

SUMMARY

     8  

The Parties

     8  

The Merger

     9  

Consideration to be Paid in the Merger by HGV to Diamond Stockholders

     10  

Recommendation of Our Board of Directors

     10  

Opinion of Our Financial Advisor

     11  

Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger

     11  

Our Board of Directors Following the Merger

     12  

Treatment of Diamond Equity-Based Awards

     12  

Regulatory Clearances Required for the Merger

     12  

Expected Timing of the Merger

     13  

Conditions to Completion of the Merger

     13  

Termination of the Merger Agreement

     15  

Termination Fees and Expenses

     16  

No Rights of Appraisal for HGV Stockholders

     16  

Listing of Shares of Our Common Stock

     16  

The Special Meeting

     16  

Description of Debt Financing

     17  

Securitization and Warehouse Facility

     18  

Summary Consolidated Financial Data of Diamond

     19  

Summary Consolidated Financial Data of HGV

     20  

Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information of HGV and Diamond

     21  

RISK FACTORS

     22  

THE PARTIES

     33  

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     35  

THE SPECIAL MEETING

     37  

THE MERGER

     42  

Effect of the Merger

     42  

Background of the Merger

     42  

Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors

     55  

Opinion of Our Financial Advisor

     59  

Certain Unaudited Prospective Financial Information

     69  

Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger

     73  

Our Board of Directors Following the Merger

     75  

Regulatory Clearances Required for the Merger

     76  

Treatment of Diamond Equity-Based Awards

     77  

Accounting Treatment

     77  

U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences for Our Stockholders

     77  

NYSE Market Listing of Our Common Stock

     77  

Description of Debt Financing

     77  

Securitization and Warehouse Facility

     80  

No Rights of Appraisal for HGV Stockholders

     81  

THE MERGER AGREEMENT

     82  

The Merger

     82  

Completion of the Merger

     82  

Merger Consideration

     83  

Conversion and Exchange of Shares of Diamond Common Stock

     83  

Representations and Warranties

     83  

Conduct of Business

     86  


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No Solicitation of Alternative Proposals

     91  

Change in HGV Board Recommendation

     92  

Efforts to Obtain Required Stockholder Vote

     92  

Efforts to Complete the Merger

     92  

D&O Indemnification, Exculpation and Insurance

     93  

Employee Benefits Matters

     97  

Treatment of Equity Awards

     98  

Conditions to Completion of the Merger

     99  

Termination of the Merger Agreement

     100  

Termination Fees and Expenses

     101  

Amendment and Modification

     101  

No Third-Party Beneficiaries

     102  

Specific Performance

     102  

OTHER AGREEMENTS

     103  

Stockholders Agreement

     103  

Hilton Agreements and Consent

     106  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF DIAMOND

     108  

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF HGV AND DIAMOND

     133  

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF HGV

     146  

PROPOSAL NUMBER 1: APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK

     148  

PROPOSAL NUMBER 2: COMPENSATION PROPOSAL

     149  

PROPOSAL NUMBER 3: ADJOURNMENT

     150  

FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS

     151  

OTHER MATTERS

     151  

HOUSEHOLDING

     151  

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

     152  

INDEX – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     F-1  


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SUMMARY TERM SHEET

This Summary Term Sheet, together with the sections entitled “Questions and Answers About the Transactions and Special Meeting” and “Summary,” summarizes certain information contained in this proxy statement, but does not contain all of the information that is important to you. You should read carefully this entire proxy statement, including the attached annexes, for a more complete understanding of the matters to be considered at the special meeting.

 

   

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., (“HGV”) is a timeshare company that markets and sells vacation ownership intervals, manages resorts in top leisure and urban destinations, and operates a points-based vacation club. For more information about HGV, see the section entitled “The Parties.”

 

   

Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC (“HGV Borrower”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary through which HGV indirectly owns all of its assets and conduct substantially all of its business. HGV Borrower is a party to the merger agreement and will be the surviving entity after the merger. For more information about HGV Borrower, see the section entitled “The Parties.”

 

   

Diamond Resorts International, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including Diamond Resorts Corporation (collectively, “DRI”), is a global leader in the hospitality industry and the largest, independent-branded vacation ownership company that markets and sells vacation ownership interests, manages resorts and multi-resort trusts in key vacation destinations, and operates points-based vacation clubs. For more information about DRI, see the sections entitled “The Parties” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Diamond.”

 

   

Dakota Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Diamond”), is the parent company of DRI and is controlled by investment funds and vehicles managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. (“Apollo”). For more information about Dakota Holdings, Inc., see the section entitled “The Parties.”

 

   

Apollo is a leading global alternative investment manager with offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, Houston, Bethesda, London, Frankfurt, Madrid, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Delhi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo. Apollo had assets under management of approximately $461.1 billion as of March 31, 2021 in credit, private equity and real assets funds invested across a core group of nine industries where Apollo has considerable knowledge and resources. For more information about Apollo, see the section entitled “The Parties.”

 

   

As part of a series of transactions leading to the merger, (i) Dakota Intermediate, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving; (ii) thereafter, Dakota Parent, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving; and (iii) thereafter, DRI will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving. For more information about the merger, see the section entitled “The Merger – Effect of the Merger.”

 

   

On March 10, 2021, HGV, HGV Borrower, Diamond, the Apollo Investors, and the other Diamond stockholders executed and delivered the merger agreement. Simultaneously with the execution of the merger agreement, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (“Hilton”) delivered to HGV its consent to the merger and the related transactions, and HGV and Hilton entered into the Hilton agreements. For more information about the Hilton agreements, see the section entitled “Other Agreements — Hilton Agreements and Consent.”

 

   

Pursuant to the merger agreement and subject to the terms and conditions contained therein, at the effective time, Diamond will merge with and into HGV Borrower, the separate corporate existence of Diamond will cease, and HGV Borrower will continue as the surviving company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV. For more information about the merger agreement, see the sections entitled “The Merger” and “Proposal Number 1: Approval of Issuance of Common Stock.”

 

   

At the closing, the current Diamond stockholders are currently expected to receive an aggregate of approximately 34,675,385 shares of HGV common stock (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021),

 

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subject to certain adjustments. As a result, based on Diamond’s current capitalization, Diamond stockholders are expected to receive approximately 0.320 shares of HGV common stock for each share of Diamond common stock (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021). The HGV board of directors recommends stockholders approve the issuance of stock to Diamond stockholders. For more information about the effects of the merger, see the sections entitled “The Merger — Consideration to be Paid in the Merger by HGV to Diamond Stockholders” and “Proposal Number 1: Approval of Issuance of Common Stock.”

 

   

Upon completion of the merger, HGV’s board of directors will expand from its current size of seven members to nine members. All seven members of HGV’s current board of directors prior to the merger will remain on HGV’s board of directors following the merger, and, pursuant to the stockholders agreement, two new members designated by the Apollo Investors will be appointed to HGV’s board of directors at the effective time of the merger. For more information about our board of directors following the merger, and for more information about the stockholders agreement, see the sections entitled “The Merger — Our Board of Directors Following the Merger” and “Other Agreements — Stockholders Agreement.”

 

   

Unless waived by the parties to the merger agreement, the closing is subject to a number of conditions set forth in the merger agreement, including, among others, receipt of the requisite stockholder approval of the stock issuance proposal. For more information about the closing conditions to the merger, and the requisite stockholder approval required for the merger to occur, see the sections entitled “The Merger Agreement — Conditions to Completion of the Merger” and “Questions and Answers About the Transactions and Special Meeting — What vote is required to approve each proposal and how are abstentions, failures to vote and broker non-votes treated?

 

   

The merger agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the consummation of the merger upon mutual agreement of the parties thereto, or for other reasons in specified circumstances. For more information about the termination rights under the merger agreement, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement — Termination of the Merger Agreement.”

 

   

The merger agreement and transactions contemplated thereby involve numerous risks. For more information about these risks, please see the section entitled “Risk Factors.”

 

   

The HGV Board considered various factors in determining whether to approve the merger agreement. For more information about the HGV Board’s decision-making process, see the sections entitled “The Merger — Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” and “The Merger — Opinion of Our Financial Advisor.”

 

   

In addition to voting on the stock issuance proposal, at the special meeting, HGV stockholders will also be asked to vote on the approval of the compensation proposal. For more information about the compensation proposal, see the section entitled “Proposal Number 2: Compensation Proposal.”

 

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE TRANSACTIONS AND SPECIAL MEETING

The following are brief answers to certain questions that you may have about the proposals being considered at the special meeting of our stockholders, which we refer to as the “special meeting.” We urge you to carefully read this entire proxy statement, including its Annexes, and the other documents to which this proxy statement refers or incorporates by reference, because this section does not provide all of the information that might be important to you. Also see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

 

Q:

What is the proposed transaction?

 

A:

On March 10, 2021, we, HGV Borrower, Diamond, the Apollo Investors, and the other stockholders of Diamond entered into the merger agreement, a copy of which is included as Annex A to this proxy statement. The merger agreement provides that we will acquire Diamond in a series of transactions (the “merger”). After the completion of the merger, Diamond will cease to exist as a separate company and all of its assets and liabilities will be assumed by HGV Borrower, the surviving entity of the merger, and HGV Borrower will continue to be a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV.

If the merger is completed, the Diamond stockholders are currently expected to receive an aggregate of approximately 34,675,385 shares (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021) of our common stock par value $0.01 per share (“our common stock”), subject to certain adjustments as a result of changes in certain liabilities and other items between signing and closing. As a result, based on Diamond’s current capitalization, Diamond stockholders are expected to receive approximately 0.320 shares of our common stock (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021) for each share of Diamond Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Diamond common stock”), other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond, that they own immediately before the merger, subject to adjustment as a result of changes in certain liabilities and other items between signing and closing of the merger in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement (such ratio, the “exchange ratio”), plus cash for any fractional shares, without interest.

 

Q:

Why am I receiving this proxy statement?

 

A:

You are receiving this proxy statement because you are a stockholder of record of HGV on the record date. This proxy statement serves as the proxy statement through which we will solicit proxies to obtain the necessary stockholder approval for the proposed issuance of our common stock to Diamond stockholders in connection with the merger. The merger itself does not require any HGV stockholder approval.

The Diamond stockholders have already approved the merger agreement and the merger, pursuant to a written consent dated March 10, 2021. Accordingly, there will not be a separate meeting for Diamond stockholders. In addition, Diamond does not file reports with the SEC nor is its common stock publicly traded on any exchange.

This proxy statement, including its Annexes, contains and incorporates by reference important information about us and Diamond, the merger and the special meeting. You should read all the available information carefully and in its entirety.

Your vote is important. We encourage you to vote as soon as possible.

 

Q:

When and where will the special meeting be held?

 

A:

The special meeting will be held at • , • , • , on •  , 2021 • at •  a.m., Eastern time.

 

Q:

Who is entitled to vote at the special meeting?

 

A:

Only holders of record of outstanding shares of our common stock as of the close of business on • , 2021, which we refer to as the record date, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting.

 

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Q:

What constitutes a quorum at the special meeting?

 

A:

In accordance with Delaware law (the law under which we are incorporated) and our bylaws, the presence of the holders of a majority in voting power of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the special meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, is required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the special meeting. If a quorum is not present, or if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the special meeting to approve the stock issuance proposal, the special meeting may be adjourned to allow more time for obtaining additional proxies or votes without further notice other than by announcement of the time and place of the adjourned meeting at the special meeting, unless the adjournment is for more than thirty days in which case a notice of the adjourned meeting will be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting. If after the adjournment, a new record date for stockholders entitled to vote is fixed for the adjourned meeting, our board of directors will fix a new record date for notice of such adjourned meeting and will give notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such adjourned meeting as of the record date fixed for notice of such adjourned meeting. At any such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the original meeting. At any subsequent reconvening of the special meeting, all proxies will be voted in the same manner as they would have been voted at the original convening of the special meeting, except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked or withdrawn before the adjourned meeting.

Abstentions (shares of our common stock for which proxies have been received but for which the holders have abstained from voting) will be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved. However, broker non-votes will not be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved.

 

Q:

How do I vote my shares of common stock?

 

A:

If you are a stockholder of record on the record date, you may vote in person by attending the special meeting, or, to ensure your shares are represented at the special meeting, in advance of the special meeting you may authorize a proxy to vote by:

 

   

accessing the internet website specified on your proxy card and following the on-screen instructions;

 

   

calling the toll-free number specified on your proxy card; or

 

   

signing, dating and mailing your proxy card in the postage-paid envelope provided.

If you are a beneficial owner who holds shares of our common stock in “street name” through a stock brokerage account or through a bank, broker or other nominee, please follow the voting instructions provided by your bank, broker or other nominee to ensure that your shares are represented at the special meeting. Beneficial owners may vote at the special meeting only if they obtain a legal proxy from their bank, broker or other nominee before the special meeting.

 

Q:

How does our board of directors recommend that I vote?

 

A:

Our board of directors, after careful consideration of the various factors described under “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement, at a meeting held on March 8, 2021, unanimously determined that the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of us and our stockholders, authorized and approved the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger, and the other transactions contemplated thereby by a unanimous vote, and adopted resolutions directing that the stock issuance proposal be submitted to our stockholders for their consideration and approval.

 

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Accordingly, our board of directors unanimously recommends that our common stockholders vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, “FOR” the compensation proposal and “FOR” the adjournment proposal.

In relation to the compensation proposal, except with respect to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, we do not intend to terminate any of our executive officers in connection with the merger and, accordingly, we do not anticipate making any change in control payments, accelerated vesting or benefit enhancements to our other named executive officers as a result of the merger.

 

Q:

What vote is required to approve each proposal and how are abstentions, failures to vote and broker non-votes treated?

 

A:

The approval of the stock issuance proposal and the compensation proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast and entitled to vote on each proposal. The approval of the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, requires the affirmative vote of the stockholders of a majority in voting power present if a quorum is not present or, if a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. Abstentions, failures to vote and broker non-votes, if any, will have no effect on the outcome of the stock issuance proposal, compensation proposal or the adjournment proposal.

 

Q:

My shares are held in “street name” by my bank, broker or other nominee. Will my bank, broker or other nominee automatically vote my shares for me?

 

A:

No. If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker or other nominee, you are considered the “beneficial holder” of the shares held for you in what is known as “street name.” You are not the “record holder” of such shares. If this is the case, this proxy statement has been forwarded to you by your bank, broker or other nominee. As the beneficial holder, unless your bank, broker or other nominee has discretionary authority over your shares, you generally have the right to direct your bank, broker or other nominee as to how to vote your shares. If you do not provide voting instructions, your shares will not be voted on any proposal on which your bank, broker or other nominee does not have discretionary authority. This is often called a “broker non-vote.” With respect to the special meeting, your bank, broker or other nominee does not have discretionary authority to vote on the stock issuance proposal, the compensation proposal or the adjournment proposal.

You should therefore provide your bank, broker or other nominee with instructions as to how to vote your shares of our common stock.

Please follow the voting instructions provided by your bank, broker or other nominee so that it may vote your shares on your behalf. Please note that you may not vote shares held in street name by returning a proxy card directly to us or by voting in person at the special meeting unless you first obtain a legal proxy from your bank, broker or other nominee.

 

Q:

What will happen if I return my proxy card without indicating how to vote?

 

A:

If you properly complete and sign your proxy card but do not indicate how your shares of our common stock should be voted on a matter, the shares of our common stock represented by your proxy will be voted as our board of directors recommends and, therefore, will be voted “FOR” each of the proposals being submitted to a vote of our common stockholders at the special meeting.

 

Q:

Can I change my vote or revoke my proxy after I have returned a proxy or voting instruction card?

 

A:

Yes, you can change your vote or revoke your proxy at any time before your proxy is voted at the special meeting. If you are a stockholder of record, you can do this in one of three ways.

 

   

you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date, including by telephone or through the internet before the closing of those voting facilities at • on •  , 2021;

 

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you can send a signed notice of revocation to Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839, Attention: Corporate Secretary, which must be received prior to • on •  , 2021; or

 

   

you can attend and vote at the special meeting, which will automatically cancel any proxy previously given. Simply attending the special meeting without voting at the special meeting will not revoke any proxy that you have previously given or otherwise change your vote.

If you have submitted a proxy for your shares by telephone or via the internet, you may revoke your prior telephone or internet proxy by any manner described above.

If you are a “beneficial holder” who holds shares of our common stock in “street name,” you must contact your bank, broker or other nominee to change your vote.

 

Q:

Do I need to do anything with my shares of common stock other than voting for the proposals at the special meeting?

 

A:

No. If the merger is consummated, you are not required to take any action with respect to your shares of our common stock.

 

Q:

Do I have appraisal rights?

 

A:

No. You, as an HGV stockholder, do not have appraisal rights as a result of the merger.

 

Q:

How will HGV stockholders be affected by the merger?

 

A:

Upon completion of the merger, each HGV stockholder will hold the same number of shares of our common stock that such stockholder held immediately prior to completion of the merger. As a result of the merger, our stockholders will own shares in a larger company with more assets. However, because HGV will be issuing additional shares of our common stock to Diamond stockholders in exchange for their shares of Diamond common stock, each outstanding share of our common stock immediately prior to the merger will represent a smaller percentage of the aggregate number of shares of our common stock outstanding after the merger. Our common stock will continue to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) following consummation of the merger.

 

Q:

When does HGV expect to complete the merger?

 

A:

We are currently expecting to complete the merger in the summer of 2021. However, we cannot predict the actual date on which the merger will be completed, nor can we assure you that the merger will be completed, because completion is subject to conditions beyond either company’s control. See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99 of this proxy statement.

 

Q:

What happens if the merger is not completed?

 

A:

If the stock issuance proposal is not approved by our stockholders or the merger is not completed for any other reason, Diamond’s stockholders will not receive any payment for shares of Diamond common stock that they own. Instead, we will not issue any shares of our common stock as contemplated by the merger agreement, we will continue to conduct our operations as currently conducted, and Diamond will remain an independent company.

Under specified circumstances, we may be required to pay a termination fee upon termination of the merger agreement, as described under “The Merger Agreement—Termination Fees and Expenses” beginning on page 101 of this proxy statement.

 

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Q:

Who will own HGV immediately following the merger?

 

A:

We estimate that, upon completion of the merger, our stockholders as of immediately prior to the merger will own approximately 72% and Diamond stockholders will own approximately 28% of our total outstanding shares of common stock.

 

Q:

What are the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger to HGV stockholders?

 

A:

Holders of our common stock will not recognize any gain or loss as a result of the merger related to their ownership of our common stock.

 

Q:

Who can help answer my questions?

 

A:

If you have questions about the merger, the other matters to be voted on at the special meeting or how to submit a proxy, or if you desire additional copies of this proxy statement or additional proxy cards, you should contact Okapi Partners LLC, our proxy solicitor, at:

Okapi Partners LLC

1212 Avenue of the Americas, 24th Floor

New York, New York 10036

Banks and brokers call: +1-212-297-0720

Stockholders and all others call toll-free: (888) 785-6707

Email: info@okapipartners.com

 

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SUMMARY

This summary highlights selected information contained in this proxy statement and does not contain all the information that may be important to you. We urge you to carefully read this proxy statement in its entirety, as well as the Annexes. Additional, important information is also contained in the documents incorporated by reference into this proxy statement; see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

The Parties

Hilton Grand Vacations

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., a Delaware corporation, is a timeshare company that markets and sells vacation ownership intervals (“VOIs”), manages resorts in top leisure and urban destinations, and operates a points-based vacation club. As of March 31, 2021, we had 62 properties, representing 499,616 VOIs, that are primarily located in vacation destinations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, the Hawaiian Islands, New York City, Washington D.C., South Carolina, Barbados and Mexico and feature spacious, condominium-style accommodations with superior amenities and quality service. As of March 31, 2021, we had approximately 330,000 Hilton Grand Vacations Club and Hilton Club (collectively the “Club”) members. Club members have the flexibility to exchange their VOIs for stays at any HGV resort or any property in the Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“Hilton”) system of 18 industry-leading brands across more than 6,500 properties, as well as numerous experiential vacation options, such as cruises and guided tours.

We operate our business across two segments: real estate sales and financing and resort operations and club management. Our real estate sales and financing segment primarily generates revenue from VOI sales and consumer financing in connection with such sales, and our resort operations and club management segment primarily generates revenue from resort management, Club management and transient rental of available VOI inventory.

On January 3, 2017, Hilton completed a tax-free spin-off of HGV and Park Hotels & Resorts Inc. As a result of the spin-off, HGV became an independent publicly-traded company. Our common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “HGV.”

Our executive offices are located at 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839 and our telephone number is (407) 613-3100.

This proxy statement incorporates important business and financial information about us from other documents that are incorporated by reference. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

HGV Borrower

Hilton Grand Vacations Borrower LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary through which we indirectly own all of our assets and conduct substantially all of our business. HGV Borrower, together with other subsidiaries, are also issuers and guarantors of our outstanding senior unsecured notes and other borrowings. HGV Borrower is a party to the merger agreement and will be the surviving entity after its merger with Diamond and will be the subsidiary through which we will own all of Diamond’s assets and operate all of Diamond’s business immediately after the merger. HGV Borrower’s executive offices are located at 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839 and its telephone number is (407) 613-3100.



 

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Diamond Resorts International, Inc.

Diamond Resorts International, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including Diamond Resorts Corporation (collectively, “DRI”), are a global leader in the hospitality industry and the largest, independent-branded vacation ownership company that markets and sells vacation ownership interests (“Vacation Interests or “VOIs”), manages resorts and multi-resort trusts (the “Diamond Collections”) in key vacation destinations, and operates points-based vacation clubs. As of March 31, 2021, DRI’s portfolio consists of 110 properties (the “Portfolio Properties”) it manages, or included in one of its Diamond Collections, representing approximately 14,198 units. In addition, DRI’s global resort network includes 229 affiliated resorts and hotels (which DRI does not manage and do not carry its brand, but are a part of DRI’s exchange network). Through its innovative and extensive distribution network, DRI sells a points-based Vacation Interests product, which allows its owners to travel to 339 vacation destinations located in 34 countries throughout the world, including key leisure destinations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, the Hawaiian Islands, Mexico, and Europe.

DRI’s operations consist of two interrelated businesses: (i) Vacation Interest sales and financing, which includes the marketing and sale of Vacation Interests and consumer financing for purchasers of Vacation Interests and (ii) hospitality and management services, which includes management of resort properties and trusts, operation of its vacation programs and resort amenities, and the provision of other hospitality and management services.

DRI’s principal executive offices are located at 10600 West Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89135 and its telephone number is (702) 684-8000.

Dakota Holdings, Inc.

Dakota Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is the parent company of DRI and is controlled by investment funds and vehicles managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. Its principal executive offices are located at 10600 West Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89135 and its telephone number is (702) 684-8000.

Apollo Global Management, Inc.

Founded in 1990, Apollo Global Management, Inc. (“Apollo”) is a leading global alternative investment manager with offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, Houston, Bethesda, London, Frankfurt, Madrid, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Delhi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo. Apollo had assets under management of approximately $461.1 billion as of March 31, 2021 in credit, private equity and real assets funds invested across a core group of nine industries where Apollo has considerable knowledge and resources.

Apollo’s principal executive offices are located at 9 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 and its telephone number is (212) 513-3200.

The Merger

The merger agreement provides that, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the merger agreement and in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law (“DGCL”), Diamond will be merged with and into HGV Borrower, with HGV Borrower surviving the merger.

As a result of the merger, HGV Borrower will remain a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV, Diamond will cease to exist as a separate company, and all of the assets and liabilities of Diamond will be assumed by HGV Borrower.



 

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A copy of the merger agreement is attached as Annex A to this proxy statement and is incorporated by reference herein. Please carefully read the merger agreement as it is the legal document that governs the merger. For more information on the merger and the merger agreement, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement” beginning on page 82 of this proxy statement.

Consideration to be Paid in the Merger by HGV to Diamond Stockholders

Pursuant to the merger agreement, upon completion of the merger, among other things:

(1) each share of Diamond common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger (the “effective time”), other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares, and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond, will cease to be outstanding, shall automatically be cancelled and cease to exist, and each holder thereof shall have the right to receive a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock (the “merger consideration”), calculated in the manner set forth in the merger agreement and allocated among the various sellers based on their respective ownership interests in Diamond in accordance with the merger agreement;

(2) each option to purchase Diamond common stock (each, a “Diamond option”) outstanding immediately prior to the effective time having an exercise price per share immediately prior to the effective time that is less than the product of (i) the exchange ratio, multiplied by (ii) the number equal to the VWAP for the ten consecutive trading days immediately preceding the Closing Date (the “HGV stock value”) (each, an “in-the-money option”), whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to (x) (1) the product of (A) the number of shares of Diamond common stock subject to such in-the-money option (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option), multiplied by (B) the exchange ratio and multiplied by (C) the HGV stock value minus (2) the aggregate exercise price of such in-the-money option, minus (3) an amount equal to the tax withholding obligation that would be withheld pursuant to Section 3.5 of the merger agreement with respect to the payment to the holder of such in-the-money options of an amount equal to the preceding clause (1) minus the preceding clause (2), divided by (y) the HGV stock value (the “option consideration”); and

(3) all Diamond options outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that are not in-the-money options will (i) to the extent not then vested, become fully vested as of immediately prior to the effective time (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such Diamond option) and (ii) automatically be cancelled and terminated at the effective time without payment therefor, and, to such extent, will have no further force or effect.

The rights of Diamond stockholders and Diamond option holders who receive shares of our common stock as the merger consideration or the option consideration, as applicable, will, after the merger, be governed by our current certificate of incorporation and our current bylaws. The rights of our current stockholders will continue to be governed by our current certificate of incorporation and our current bylaws. Neither our certificate of incorporation nor our bylaws are being amended in connection with the merger.

Recommendation of Our Board of Directors

Our board of directors, after careful consideration of the various factors described under “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement, at a meeting held on March 8, 2021, unanimously determined that the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement



 

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are advisable and in the best interests of us and our stockholders, authorized and approved the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger, and the other transactions contemplated thereby by a unanimous vote, and adopted resolutions directing that the stock issuance proposal be submitted to our stockholders for their consideration and approval.

In evaluating the merger, our board of directors consulted with and received the advice of our outside legal and financial advisors, held discussions with our management and considered a number of factors that it believed supported its decision to approve us entering into the merger agreement and the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger. These factors included, but were not limited to, those listed in “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement.

Accordingly, our board of directors unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, “FOR” the compensation proposal and “FOR” the adjournment proposal.

In relation to the compensation proposal, except with respect to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, we do not intend to terminate any of our executive officers in connection with the merger and, accordingly, we do not anticipate making any change in control payments, accelerated vesting or benefit enhancements to our other named executive officers as a result of the merger.

Opinion of Our Financial Advisor

We retained BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofA Securities”) to act as our financial advisor in connection with the merger based on its qualifications, expertise and reputation, and its knowledge of our business and affairs and familiarity with us and the industry in which we operate. Among other experiences, BofA Securities has significant hospitality, gaming and real estate M&A and capital markets experience. At the meeting of our board of directors on March 8, 2021, BofA Securities rendered its oral opinion to our board of directors that, as of such date and based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in its opinion, the merger consideration to be paid by us in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to us.

On March 9, 2021, BofA Securities delivered to our board of directors a written opinion, dated March 9, 2021, as to the fairness, from a financial point of view and as of the date of the opinion, of the merger consideration to HGV. The full text of the written opinion, dated March 9, 2021, of BofA Securities, which describes, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, factors considered and limitations on the review undertaken, is attached as Annex B to this document and is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BofA Securities provided its opinion to our board of directors (in its capacity as such) for the benefit and use of HGV’s board of directors in connection with and for purposes of its evaluation of the merger consideration from a financial point of view. BofA Securities’ opinion does not address any other aspect of the merger and no opinion or view was expressed as to the relative merits of the merger in comparison to other strategies or transactions that might be available to us or in which we might engage or as to the underlying business decision of HGV to proceed with or effect the merger. BofA Securities’ opinion does not address any other aspect of the merger and does not constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how to vote or act in connection with the stock issuance proposal or any related matter.

For more information, see the section entitled “The Merger—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” on page 59 of this proxy statement and Annex B to this proxy statement.

Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger

In considering the recommendation of our board of directors to vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, you should be aware that certain members of our board of directors and certain of our executive officers may



 

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have interests in the merger that may be in addition to, or different from, your interests as an HGV stockholder. These interests may create the appearance of conflicts of interest. Our board of directors was aware of these potential conflicts of interest during its deliberations on the merits of the merger and in making its decision to approve the merger agreement, the merger, and the common stock issuance.

Each of the current members of our board of directors will continue as a director, and each of the current members of our senior management team will continue as an executive officer following the completion of the merger, and will hold office from and after the completion of the merger until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement or removal, other than the previously announced separation of our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, which is anticipated to be effective after the closing of the merger.

For a more complete discussion of the interests of our directors and executive officers in the merger, see the section entitled “The Merger—Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger” beginning on page 73 of this proxy statement.

Our Board of Directors Following the Merger

Upon the effective time of the merger, our board of directors will expand from its current size of seven members to nine members. All seven members of our current board of directors prior to the merger will remain on our board of directors following the merger, and, pursuant to the stockholders agreement, two new members designated by the Apollo Investors will be appointed to our board of directors at the effective time of the merger.

For a more complete discussion of our board of directors after the merger, see the section entitled “Other Agreements—Stockholders Agreement” beginning on page 103 of this proxy statement.

Treatment of Diamond Equity-Based Awards

Each in-the-money option, whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to the option consideration (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option).

All Diamond options outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that are not in-the-money options will (i) to the extent not then vested, become fully vested as of immediately prior to the effective time (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such option) and (ii) automatically be cancelled and terminated at the effective time without payment therefor, and, to such extent, will have no further force or effect.

Regulatory Clearances Required for the Merger

The merger is subject to (i) the requirements of the United States Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the “HSR Act”), which prevents us and Diamond from completing the merger until the applicable waiting period under the HSR Act is terminated or expires, (ii) the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law, which prevents us and Diamond from completing the merger until they have received approval from the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Commission (“COFECE”) and (iii) the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act, which requires certain transactions to be approved by the Bundeswettbewerbsbehörde (“BWB”), or the Federal Competition Authority, before they can be completed.



 

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We and Diamond filed the Notification and Report Forms with the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice (“Antitrust Division”) and the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) on March 29, 2021 and the other Apollo Investors completed their respective filings on March 30, 2021. The respective waiting periods under the HSR Act expired on April 28, 2021 and April 29, 2021.

We, Diamond and the Apollo Investors filed a formal notification to COFECE of the merger on April 9, 2021 and expect that COFECE will unanimously and unconditionally approve the merger in the second or third quarter of 2021. We and Diamond filed a formal notification to the BWB of the merger on April 9, 2021 and received formal notice of unconditional clearance on May 10, 2021.

We cannot assure you that a challenge to the merger will not be made or that, if a challenge is made, it will not succeed.

Expected Timing of the Merger

We are currently anticipating completing the merger during the summer of 2021. However, as the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of conditions described in the merger agreement, it is possible that factors outside our and Diamond’s control could result in the merger being completed at an earlier time, a later time or not at all.

Conditions to Completion of the Merger

The respective obligations of HGV, Diamond and each seller to consummate the merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:

 

   

the approval of the stock issuance proposal by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast by holders of our common stock at a stockholders’ meeting duly called and held for such purpose;

 

   

the termination or expiration of any applicable waiting period under the HSR Act;

 

   

the receipt of all authorizations, consents, orders or approvals of, or declarations or filings with, or expirations of waiting periods imposed by, the COFECE under the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law and the Federal Competition Authority under the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act;

 

   

the absence of any judgment, order, law or other legal restraint by a court or other governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that prevents the consummation of the merger; and

 

   

the approval for listing by the NYSE of the shares of our common stock issuable in connection with the merger.

Our obligation to consummate the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following additional conditions:

 

   

the representations and warranties of Diamond related to its capital structure being true and correct in all respects both when made and as of the closing date, which will be the third business day after all conditions to the completion of the merger have been satisfied or waived (other than those conditions that by their terms are to be satisfied at the closing, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver thereof at the closing), unless we and Diamond mutually agree in writing to a different date (subject to extension under certain circumstances, the “Closing Date”) (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date), except, in each case, for de minimis inaccuracies;

 

   

certain representations and warranties of Diamond relating to organization, standing, corporate power, authority, inapplicability of state anti-takeover statutes, the recommendation of Diamond’s board of



 

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directors, the vote required by Diamond’s stockholders, brokers, its wholly-owned subsidiaries party to the merger agreement and dedicated inventory being true and correct in all material respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date);

 

   

each other representation and warranty of Diamond being true and correct both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to a specific date in which case such representations and warranties must be true and correct as of such date), except where the failure of such representations and warranties to be so true and correct (without giving effect to any limitation or qualification as to “materiality” (including the word “material”) or “material adverse effect” set forth therein) does not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate with respect to all such failures, a material adverse effect on Diamond;

 

   

certain ancillary agreements having been delivered and not having been rescinded or repudiated by certain parties thereto;

 

   

Diamond and each seller having performed in all material respects all obligations and complied in all material respects with all covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the merger agreement;

 

   

the absence of a material adverse effect on Diamond having occurred and continuing; and

 

   

the receipt of an officer’s certificate executed by an authorized officer of Diamond certifying that certain conditions have been satisfied.

The obligations of Diamond and each seller to consummate the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following additional conditions:

 

   

the representations and warranties of HGV related to its capital structure being true and correct in all respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date), except, in each case, for de minimis inaccuracies;

 

   

certain representations and warranties of HGV relating to organization, standing, corporate power, authority, the shares of its common stock issuable in the merger, inapplicability of state anti-takeover statutes, brokers and its wholly-owned subsidiaries party to the merger agreement being true and correct in all material respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date);

 

   

each other representation and warranty of HGV being true and correct both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to a specific date in which case such representations and warranties must be true and correct as of such date), except where the failure of such representations and warranties to be so true and correct (without giving effect to any limitation or qualification as to “materiality” (including the word “material”) or “material adverse effect” set forth therein) does not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate with respect to all such failures, a material adverse effect on HGV;

 

   

certain ancillary agreements having been delivered and not having been rescinded or repudiated by certain parties thereto;

 

   

HGV having performed in all material respects all obligations and complied in all material respects with all covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the merger agreement;

 

   

the absence of a material adverse effect on HGV having occurred and continuing; and



 

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the receipt of an officer’s certificate executed by an authorized officer of HGV certifying that certain conditions have been satisfied.

Additionally, our obligation to complete the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of conditions relating to the absence of defaults under Diamond’s unsecured notes and the absence of defaults and sufficient availability under Diamond’s warehouse facilities immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.

For more information about conditions to the completion of the merger and a complete list of such conditions, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99 of this proxy statement.

Termination of the Merger Agreement

The merger agreement contains certain customary termination rights for HGV and Diamond. The parties may mutually agree to terminate the merger agreement before completing the merger.

In addition, we or Diamond may terminate the merger agreement:

 

   

if the merger is not consummated by September 10, 2021 (the “termination date”), subject to extension to December 9, 2021 under certain circumstances;

 

   

if any law or order prohibiting the merger has become final and non-appealable;

 

   

if the other party has breached or failed to perform in any respect any of its representations, warranties, covenants or other agreements contained in the merger agreement, which breach or failure to perform (a) would give rise to the failure of the applicable condition to consummate the closing of the merger and (b) is incapable of being cured by such party or is not cured by the earlier of (x) twenty days following delivery of written notice of such breach to such other party and (y) the termination date; provided, that such termination right shall not be available if such party is then in breach of any of its representations, warranties or covenants contained in the merger agreement and such breach would give rise to the failure of the applicable condition to consummate the closing of the merger; or

 

   

if we hold a stockholders meeting for the purpose of obtaining approval of the stock issuance proposal and our stockholders vote on the stock issuance proposal and approval thereof is not obtained in such vote.

In addition, Diamond may terminate the merger agreement:

 

   

if (a) the closing of the merger is required to occur pursuant to the merger agreement, (b) all of the closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement continue to be met, (c) we fail to close the transaction when required pursuant to the merger agreement and (d) Diamond and the sellers stand ready, willing and able to consummate the closing; or

 

   

if, prior to the time our stockholder approval is obtained, our board of directors has withdrawn, modified or qualified its recommendation in favor of the stock issuance proposal as a result of an Intervening Event (as defined in the merger agreement), and reasonably determines in good faith, after consultation with outside counsel, that failure to do so would violate its fiduciary obligations under applicable law.

See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement” beginning on page 100 of this proxy statement for a discussion of these and other rights of each of HGV and Diamond to terminate the merger agreement.



 

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Termination Fees and Expenses

Generally, each party is required to pay all fees and expenses incurred by it in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. However, the merger agreement provides that, upon termination of the merger agreement under certain circumstances, we may be obligated to pay Diamond a termination fee of (i) $44.1 million in the event the HGV board of directors has withdrawn, modified or qualified its recommendation in favor of the stock issuance proposal, and, at the time of such termination, our stockholders have not approved the stock issuance proposal, or (ii) $73.5 million in the event the closing of the merger is required to occur pursuant to the merger agreement, all of the closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement continue to be met, we fail to close the transaction when required by the merger agreement (including by reason of a financing failure) and Diamond and the sellers stand ready, willing and able to consummate the closing. The merger agreement further provides that, with respect to certain fees incurred by or on behalf of Diamond in connection with obtaining certain consents pursuant to the merger agreement, including Diamond’s warehouse facilities, HGV, on the one hand, and the sellers, on the other hand, will each bear 50% of such costs.

See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination Fees and Expenses” beginning on page 101 of this proxy statement for a more complete discussion of the circumstances under which termination fees will be required to be paid.

No Rights of Appraisal for HGV Stockholders

Current holders of shares of our common stock will not have any rights of appraisal as a result of the merger.

Listing of Shares of Our Common Stock

Application will be made to the NYSE to have the shares of our common stock issued in connection with the merger approved for listing on the NYSE, where shares of our common stock are currently traded under the symbol “HGV.” For more information on the listing of shares of our common stock, see the section entitled “The Merger—NYSE Market Listing of Our Common Stock” beginning on page 77 of this proxy statement.

The Special Meeting

Date, Time and Place

The special meeting will be held at • , • , • , on • , 2021 at •  a.m., Eastern time.

Purpose

At the special meeting, and any adjournments or postponements thereof, you will be asked to consider and vote on:

 

   

the stock issuance proposal;

 

   

the compensation proposal; and

 

   

the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes to approve the stock issuance proposal.

Record Date; Stockholders Entitled to Vote

Only holders of record of our common stock at the close of business on • , 2021, the record date for the special meeting (the “record date”), will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting, or any



 

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adjournment or postponement thereof. At the close of business on the record date, • shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding and held by • holders of record.

Holders of record of our common stock on the record date are entitled to one vote per share at the special meeting on each proposal. A list of the names of our stockholders of record will be open to the examination by any stockholder for any purpose germane to the special meeting for ten days before the special meeting during regular business hours at our headquarters, 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839 . Our stockholder list will also be available at the special meeting for examination by any stockholder present at such meeting.

Quorum

No business may be transacted at the special meeting unless a quorum is present. The presence of the holders of a majority in voting power of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the special meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, is required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the special meeting. If a quorum is not present, or if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the special meeting to approve the stock issuance proposal, the special meeting may be adjourned to allow more time for obtaining additional proxies or votes. At any subsequent reconvening of the special meeting, all proxies will be voted in the same manner as they would have been voted at the original convening of the special meeting, except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked or withdrawn before the adjourned meeting.

Abstentions (shares of our common stock for which proxies have been received but for which the holders have abstained from voting) will be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved. However, broker non-votes will not be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved.

Required Vote; Failure to Vote, Broker Non-Votes and Abstentions

The approval of the stock issuance proposal and the compensation proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. The approval of the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, requires the affirmative vote of the stockholders of a majority in voting power present if a quorum is not present, or, if a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. Abstentions, failures to vote and broker non-votes, if any, will have no effect on the outcome of the stock issuance proposal, the compensation proposal or the adjournment proposal.

Voting by Our Directors and Executive Officers

As of the close of business on the record date, directors and executive officers of HGV and their affiliates were entitled to vote • shares of our common stock, or approximately • % of the shares of our common stock outstanding. HGV currently expects that our directors and executive officers will vote their shares in favor of each proposal being submitted to a vote of our stockholders at the special meeting, although none of them has entered into any agreement obligating them to do so.

For additional information about the special meeting, see the section entitled “The Special Meeting” beginning on page 37 of this proxy statement.

Description of Debt Financing

In connection with the merger, HGV intends to issue, or to cause one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries to issue, a combination of debt securities in a private offering, term loans and/or revolving loans. On March 25,



 

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2021, HGV entered into an amended and restated commitment letter, which is referred to in this proxy statement as the “commitment letter”, with Bank of America, N.A., BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Deutsche Bank AG Cayman Islands Branch, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, Barclays Bank PLC, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, MUFG Bank, Ltd. and each of the other banks and lending institutions party thereto to provide (i) a $675.0 million senior unsecured bridge loan facility to the extent that HGV has not received $675.0 million of net cash proceeds from the issuance by HGV or one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries of debt securities in a private offering at or prior to completion of the merger, which is referred to in this proxy statement as the “bridge facility” and (ii) a $1.3 billion seven-year senior secured term loan facility, which is referred to in this proxy statement as the “term loan facility” and, together with the bridge facility is referred to in this proxy statement collectively as, the “facilities”, in each case, to fund the repayment of certain existing indebtedness of HGV and Diamond and to pay fees, commissions and expenses incurred in connection with the merger. Bank of America, N.A., Deutsche Bank AG Cayman Islands Branch, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, Barclays Bank PLC, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, MUFG Bank, Ltd. Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, Citizens Bank, N.A., Fifth Third Bank, National Association, Regions Bank and Mizuho Bank, Ltd. each provided a commitment to fund loans under the facilities and are collectively referred to in this proxy statement as the “commitment parties.” The commitment parties’ obligation to fund the facilities is subject to several limited conditions as set forth in the commitment letter, including, among others, completion of the merger substantially concurrently with the funding of the facilities, the non-occurrence of a company material adverse effect (as defined in the merger agreement) on Diamond, the accuracy in all material respects of certain representations and warranties related to both HGV and Diamond, the delivery of certain financial statements of HGV and Diamond and other customary conditions.

On May 20, 2021, we priced an unregistered offering of $850 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.000% senior notes due 2029, which is expected to close on June 4, 2021, subject to customary closing conditions.

Securitization and Warehouse Facility

On the Closing Date, Diamond and its direct or indirect subsidiaries (the “Diamond Entities”) are required to have taken various actions with respect to their warehouse facilities. These include:

(a) obtaining commitments under the existing Deutsche Bank warehouse facility and Credit Suisse variable funding note facility of an aggregate amount of no less than $400,000,000 minus the proceeds of an asset-backed notes offering relating to a term securitization that is expected to occur in 2021, net of certain permitted amounts;

(b) with respect to Diamond’s existing Deutsche Bank warehouse facility obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary under the applicable warehouse commitment letter such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur under such facility;

(c) with respect to Diamond’s existing Credit Suisse warehouse facility and variable funding note facility, obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility defaults shall occur under such facilities;

(d) with respect to any other warehouse facilities that remain outstanding on or after the Closing Date, obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur thereunder; and

(e) with respect to any warehouse facilities where the Diamond Entities have been unable to obtain all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to



 

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the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur thereunder, paying down, with prior notice to HGV, the outstanding loan balance to zero and terminating all outstanding obligations relating thereto so that each related transaction document is no longer in full force and effect.

Summary Consolidated Financial Data of Diamond

The following table presents a summary of Diamond’s selected historical financial data, which was derived from Diamond’s last five years of consolidated financial statements. This disclosure does not include the effects of the merger.

The selected historical financial data for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018 is derived from Diamond’s audited consolidated financial statements which are included in this proxy statement. The selected historical financial data for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017, and December 31, 2016, is derived from Diamond’s audited consolidated financial statements for such years, which have not been incorporated by reference into this proxy statement.

Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period or any future date. Because this information is only a summary and does not provide all of the information contained in Diamond’s consolidated financial statements, including the related notes, this selected historical financial data should be read in conjunction with the related financial statements from which the data was derived.

 

    Three Months
Ended
March 31,
2021
    Year Ended
December 31,
2020
    Year Ended
December 31,
2019
    Year Ended
December 31,
2018
    Year Ended
December 31,
2017
    September 2,
2016, through
December 31,
2016
          January 1,
2016, through
September 1,
2016
 
          (in millions, except as otherwise noted)        

Statement of Operations Data:

                 

Revenues

  $ 241.5     $ 789.0     $ 1,250.3     $ 1,154.1     $ 1,094.7     $ 378.4         $ 650.5  

Net (loss) income

  $ (45.0   $ (284.6   $ (43.0   $ (159.5   $ 186.6     $ (36.2       $ 93.8  

Net (loss) income per share:

                 

Basic

  $ (0.42   $ (2.68   $ (0.41   $ (1.51   $ 1.76     $ (0.34       $ 1.35  

Diluted

  $ (0.42   $ (2.68   $ (0.41   $ (1.51   $ 1.76     $ (0.34       $ 1.30  

Operating Data:

                 

Number of Tours(1)

    29,273       111,360       279,770       269,125       266,936       89,502           176,122  

VPG ($ not in millions)(2)

  $ 4,687     $ 4,266     $ 3,331     $ 3,162     $ 3,151     $ 3,321         $ 2,965  

 

(1) 

Represents the number of sales presentations at our sales centers during the period presented.

(2) 

Volume per guest, or VPG, represents VOI sales divided by the total number of tours during the period presented.



 

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     March 31,
2021
     December 31,
2020
     December 31,
2019
     December 31,
2018
     December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 
            (in millions)  

Balance Sheet Data:

                 

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 197.4      $ 226.2      $ 230.5      $ 151.1      $ 245.2      $ 66.0  

Total assets

   $ 4,278.4      $ 4,110.6      $ 4,568.1      $ 4,528.6      $ 4,596.8      $ 4,498.6  

Corporate indebtedness, net

   $ 1,927.7      $ 1,906.4      $ 1,904.0      $ 1,899.2      $ 1,704.1      $ 1,700.9  

Total liabilities

   $ 3,561.1      $ 3,347.9      $ 3,533.9      $ 3,456.5      $ 3,589.2      $ 3,492.1  

Summary Consolidated Financial Data of HGV

The following table presents a summary of HGV’s selected historical financial data, which was derived from HGV’s last five years of consolidated financial statements. This disclosure does not include the effects of the merger.

The selected historical financial data for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 is derived from HGV’s audited consolidated financial statements included in HGV’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 1, 2021. The selected historical financial data for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 is derived from HGV’s audited consolidated financial statements for such years.

Historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period or any future date. Because this information is only a summary and does not provide all of the information contained in HGV’s consolidated financial statements, including the related notes, this selected historical financial data should be read in conjunction with the related financial statements from which the data was derived.

 

     Three Months Ended     Year ended December 31,  
($ in millions, except per share amounts)    March 31, 2021     2020     2019      2018      2017      2016  

Statement of Operations Data:

               

Total revenues

   $ 235     $ 894     $ 1,838      $ 1,999      $ 1,711      $ 1,583  

Total operating expenses

     234       1,139       1,523        1,565        1,374        1,260  

Net (loss) income

     (7     (201     216        298        327        168  

(Loss) earnings per share(1)

               

Basic

   $ (0.08   $ (2.36   $ 2.43      $ 3.07      $ 3.30      $ 1.70  

Diluted

   $ (0.08   $ (2.36   $ 2.42      $ 3.05      $ 3.28      $ 1.70  
     March 31,     December 31,  
($ in millions)    2021     2020     2019      2018      2017      2016  

Balance Sheet Data:

               

Securitized timeshare financing receivables, net

   $ 676     $ 742     $ 704      $ 617      $ 444      $ 244  

Unsecuritized timeshare financing receivables, net

     264       232       452        503        627        781  

Total assets

     3,114       3,134       3,079        2,753        2,384        2,180  

Debt, net(2)

     1,156       1,159       828        604        482        490  

Non-recourse debt, net(2)

     698       766       747        759        583        694  

Total liabilities

     2,745       2,760       2,509        2,137        1,866        2,013  

 

(1) 

For periods ending prior to the spin-off on January 3, 2017, basic and diluted earnings per share was calculated based on shares distributed our shareholders on January 3, 2017. See Note 20: (Loss) Earnings Per Share in our audited consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion.

 

(2) 

Amounts are net of deferred financing costs.



 

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Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information of HGV and Diamond

The following summary unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial data (the “summary pro forma data”) is presented to illustrate the estimated effects of the pending merger of HGV and Diamond, as further described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information appearing elsewhere in this proxy.

The summary pro forma data, which is preliminary in nature, has been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the more detailed unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information of the combined company appearing elsewhere in this proxy and the accompanying notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information. In addition, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information was based on, and should be read in conjunction with, the historical consolidated financial statements and related notes of each HGV, which are incorporated by reference into this proxy statement, and Diamond, which are included with this proxy statement. For more information, see “Where You Can Find More Information” and “Unaudited Condensed Combined Pro Forma Financial Information”.

The summary pro forma data has been presented in accordance with SEC Regulation S-X Article 11 for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of what the combined company’s financial position or results of operations actually would have been had the merger been consummated as of the dates indicated. In addition, the summary pro forma data does not purport to project the future financial position or operating results of the combined company.

 

     Three months ended
March 31, 2021
     Year ended
December 31, 2021
 

(in millions, except per share data)

             

Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Operations Data:

     

Total revenues

   $ 518      $ 1,837  

Total operating expenses

     544        2,405  

Loss before income taxes

     (66      (700

Net loss

     (53      (561

Basic loss per share

   $ (0.44    $ (4.68

Diluted loss per share

     (0.44      (4.68

 

     March 31, 2021  

(in millions)

      

Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet Data:

  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 260  

Timeshare financing receivables, net

     1,600  

Goodwill

     1,067  

Total assets

     8,225  

Debt, net

     2,963  

Non-recourse debt, net

     1,283  


 

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RISK FACTORS

In addition to the other information included or incorporated by reference in this proxy statement, including the matters addressed in the section entitled “Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements” beginning on page 35 of this proxy statement, you should carefully consider the following risks before deciding how to vote. In addition, you should read and consider the risks associated with each of the businesses of HGV and Diamond because those risks will also affect us on a combined basis after giving effect to the merger. Those risks that relate to us can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and any amendments thereto, as such risks may be updated or supplemented in our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K, which are incorporated by reference into this proxy statement. You should also read and consider the other information in this proxy statement and the other documents incorporated by reference in this proxy statement. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement. Finally, because Diamond is privately owned, it does not file SEC reports. Accordingly, included in the following risks are those that relate specifically to Diamond under “—Risks Related to Diamond.” Due to the fact that our and Diamond’s businesses are similar, Diamond is also subject to substantially all of the risks that are related to our business that are noted under “—Risks Related to Our Business.” When reviewing such risks related to our business, you should assume all such risks also relate to Diamond and its business and operations.

Risks Relating to the Merger

The exchange ratio will not be adjusted for changes in our stock price.

The calculation of the exchange ratio is pre-determined such that each share of Diamond common stock (other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares, and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond) is currently expected to be converted into the right to receive 0.320 shares of our common stock in connection with the merger (based on calculations as of May 20, 2021), subject to certain adjustments as a result of changes in certain liabilities and other items between signing and closing of the merger. This exchange ratio will not be adjusted for changes in the market price of our common stock between the date of signing the merger agreement and completion of the merger.

Changes in the price of our common stock before the closing of the merger will affect the market value of our common stock that Diamond common stockholders will receive at the closing of the merger. The price of our common stock at the closing of the merger may vary from their prices on the date the merger agreement was executed, on the date of this proxy statement and on the date of the special meeting. As a result, the value represented by the exchange ratio will also vary. For example, based on the range of closing prices of our common stock during the period from March 9, 2021, the last trading day before public announcement of the merger agreement, through • , 2021, the latest practicable trading date before the date of this proxy statement, the exchange ratio represented a value ranging from a high of $ • to a low of $ • for each share of Diamond common stock, as determined by reference to the value of merger consideration to be received for each share of Diamond common stock in the merger.

These variations could result from changes in the business, operations or prospects of Diamond or HGV before or following the merger, regulatory considerations, general market and economic conditions and other factors both within and beyond our and Diamond’s control. The merger may be completed a considerable period after the date of the special meeting. Therefore, at the time of the special meeting, stockholders will not know with certainty the value of the shares of our common stock that will be issued upon completion of the merger.

 

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We are subject to various uncertainties and contractual restrictions, including pending litigation and the risk of additional litigation, while the merger is pending, which may cause disruption and may make it more difficult to maintain relationships with employees, suppliers, vendors, customers or others.

Uncertainty about the effect of the merger on relationships with our employees, suppliers, vendors, customers, or others may have an adverse effect on us. Although we intend to take steps designed to reduce any adverse effects, these uncertainties may impair Diamond’s and our ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the merger is completed and for a period of time thereafter, and could cause suppliers, vendors, customers, and others that deal with us to seek to change, not renew or discontinue existing business relationships with us.

Employee retention and recruitment may be challenging before the completion of the merger, as employees and prospective employees may have uncertainty about their future roles with HGV after the merger. If, despite our retention and recruiting efforts, key employees depart or prospective key employees are unwilling to accept employment with us because of issues relating to the uncertainty and difficulty of integration or a desire not to remain with us, our business could be adversely affected.

The pursuit of the merger and the preparation for the integration may place a significant burden on management and internal resources. The diversion of management’s attention away from day-to-day business concerns and any difficulties encountered in the transition and integration process could adversely affect our financial results.

In addition, the merger agreement restricts us and Diamond, without the other party’s consent, from making certain acquisitions and taking other specified actions until the merger closes or the merger agreement terminates. These restrictions may prevent us and Diamond from pursuing otherwise attractive business opportunities and making other changes to our respective businesses before completion of the merger or termination of the merger agreement. See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conduct of Business” beginning on page 86 of this proxy statement.

One of the conditions to the closing of the merger is the absence of any judgment, order, decree, statute, law, ordinance, rule or regulation, having been entered, enacted, promulgated, enforced or issued by any court or other governmental entity of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition that prevents the consummation of the merger. We and our board of directors were named as defendants in lawsuits brought by purported HGV stockholders challenging the adequacy of the public disclosures related to the merger and seeking, among other things, injunctive relief to enjoin us from completing the merger. If a settlement or other resolution is not reached in these lawsuits and any of the plaintiffs in such pending litigation or in possible future lawsuits are successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting the consummation of the merger, then such injunction may prevent the merger from being completed, or delay it from being completed within the expected time frame.

Failure to complete the merger could negatively impact our stock price and the future of our business and financial results.

If the merger is not completed, our ongoing business may be adversely affected, and we may be subject to several risks, including the following:

 

   

being required to pay a termination fee to Diamond under certain circumstances as provided in the merger agreement;

 

   

having to pay certain costs relating to the merger, such as legal, accounting, financial advisor and other fees and expenses;

 

   

our common stock price could decline to the extent that the current market price reflects a market assumption that the merger will be completed; and

 

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having had the focus of our senior management on the merger instead of on pursuing other opportunities that could have been beneficial to us and our stockholders.

If the merger is not completed, we cannot assure you that these risks will not materialize and will not materially adversely affect our business, financial results and stock price.

Our ability to complete the merger is subject to certain closing conditions and the receipt of consents and approvals from government entities which may impose conditions that could adversely affect us or cause the merger to be abandoned.

The merger agreement contains certain closing conditions, including, among others:

 

   

the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the other party contained in the merger agreement, subject to the qualifications described in more detail herein;

 

   

the other party having performed in all material respects all obligations required to be performed by it under the merger agreement;

 

   

the absence of a “material adverse effect” impacting the other party;

 

   

the approval of the stock issuance proposal by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast by holders of our common stock at a stockholders’ meeting duly called and held for such purpose;

 

   

the absence of any judgment, order, law or other legal restraint by a court or other governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that prevents the consummation of the merger;

 

   

the approval for listing by the NYSE of the shares of our common stock issuable in the merger;

 

   

the termination or expiration of any applicable waiting period under the HSR Act;

 

   

the receipt of all authorizations, consents, orders or approvals of, or declarations or filings with, or expirations of waiting periods imposed by, the COFECE under the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law and the Federal Competition Authority under the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act;

 

   

certain ancillary agreements having been delivered and not having been rescinded or repudiated by certain parties; and

 

   

the absence of defaults under Diamond’s unsecured notes and absence of defaults and sufficient availability under Diamond’s warehouse facilities.

We cannot assure you that the various closing conditions will be satisfied, or that any required conditions will not materially adversely affect us following the merger or will not result in the abandonment or delay of the merger.

We may be unable to realize anticipated cost savings and expect to incur substantial expenses related to the merger, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

While we anticipate certain cost savings from the consummation of the merger, our ability to achieve such estimated cost savings in the timeframe described, or at all, is subject to various assumptions by our management, which may or may not be realized, as well as the incurrence of other costs in our operations that offset all or a portion of such cost savings. As a consequence, we may not be able to realize cost savings within the timeframe expected or at all. In addition, we may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize these cost savings. Failure to achieve the expected cost savings could significantly reduce the expected benefits associated with the merger and adversely affect us.

 

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In addition, we have incurred and will incur substantial expenses in connection with the negotiation and consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. We expect to continue to incur non-recurring costs associated with consummating the merger, combining the operations of the two companies and achieving the desired cost savings. These fees and costs have been, and will continue to be, substantial. The substantial majority of non-recurring expenses will consist of transaction costs related to the merger and include, among others, fees paid to financial, legal and accounting advisors, employee benefit costs and filing fees. These costs described above, as well as other unanticipated costs and expenses, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and operating results following the consummation of the merger and many of these costs will be borne by us even if the merger is not consummated.

Any delay in completing the merger may reduce or eliminate the benefits that we expect to achieve.

The merger is subject to a number of conditions beyond our control that may prevent, delay or otherwise materially adversely affect the completion of the merger. We cannot predict whether and when these conditions will be satisfied. Any delay in completing the merger could cause us not to realize some or all of the synergies that we expect to achieve if the merger is successfully completed within the expected time frame. See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger” beginning on page 99 of this proxy statement.

Our directors and executive officers may have interests in the merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of our stockholders generally.

Certain of our directors and executive officers negotiated the terms of the merger agreement, and our board of directors unanimously recommended that our stockholders vote in favor of the stock issuance proposal, the compensation proposal and the adjournment proposal. These directors and executive officers may have interests in the merger that are different from, or in addition to, those of our stockholders. These interests include the continued employment of our executive officers after the merger, the continued service of all of our directors following the merger, and other rights held by our directors and executive officers. Our stockholders should be aware of these interests when they consider our board of directors’ recommendation that they vote in favor of the stock issuance proposal and the other proposals to be voted upon at the special meeting.

Our board of directors was aware of these potential interests and considered them in making its recommendations to approve the stock issuance proposal and the other proposals to be voted upon at the special meeting. The interests of our directors and executive officers are described in more detail in the sections entitled “The Merger—Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger” beginning on page 73 of this proxy statement.

The opinion obtained by our board of directors from its financial advisor does not and will not reflect changes in circumstances after the date of such opinion.

On March 9, 2021, BofA Securities delivered an opinion to our board of directors that, as of the date of such opinion, and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions described in BofA Securities’ opinion, the merger consideration was fair, from a financial point of view, to HGV. Changes in the operations and prospects of Diamond or HGV, general market and economic conditions and other factors that may be beyond our control, and on which the opinion of BofA Securities was based, may alter our or Diamond’s value or the price at which shares of our common stock are traded by the time the merger is completed. We have not obtained, and we do not expect to request, an updated opinion from our financial advisor. BofA Securities’ opinion does not speak to the time when the merger will be completed or to any date other than the date of such opinion. As a result, the opinion does not and will not address the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration to be paid by us in the merger pursuant to the merger agreement at the time the merger is completed or at any time other than the date when opinion was rendered. For a more complete description of the opinion that our board of directors received from our financial advisor and a summary of the material financial

 

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analyses BofA Securities provided to our board of directors in connection with rendering such opinion, please refer to “The Merger—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement and the full text of such written opinion included as Annex B to this proxy statement.

Risks if the Merger is Completed

We may not be able to integrate successfully and many of the anticipated benefits of combining us and Diamond may not be realized.

We entered into the merger agreement with the expectation that the merger will result in various benefits, including, among other things, operating efficiencies. Achieving the anticipated benefits of the merger is subject to a number of uncertainties, including whether the businesses of HGV and Diamond can be integrated in an efficient and effective manner.

It is possible that the integration process could take longer than anticipated and could result in the loss of valuable employees, the disruption of each company’s ongoing businesses, processes and systems or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures, practices, policies and compensation arrangements, any of which could adversely affect our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the merger. Our results of operations could also be adversely affected by any issues attributable to Diamond’s operations that arise or are based on events or actions that occur before the closing of the merger. We may have difficulty addressing possible differences in corporate cultures and management philosophies. The integration process is subject to a number of uncertainties, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated benefits will be realized or, if realized, the timing of their realization. Failure to achieve these anticipated benefits could result in increased costs or decreases in the amount of expected net income and could adversely affect our future business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.

Furthermore, we have agreed with Hilton to develop a mutually agreeable plan pursuant to which the Diamond properties are to be operated during the integration period, and with respect to those Diamond properties that will not be converted to our brand. If we fail to develop such a plan with Hilton, such properties may remain subject to a number of restrictions related to how they are operated, and such restrictions may reduce the efficiencies anticipated in connection with the merger.

We will take on additional indebtedness to finance the merger, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations, including by decreasing our business flexibility, as well as our ability to meet payment obligations under our indebtedness.

In connection with the completion of the merger, we intend to significantly increase our level of indebtedness. As part of such plan, we have priced an unregistered offering of $850 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.000% senior notes due 2029, which is expected to close on June 4, 2021, subject to customary closing conditions. Our increased level of debt, together with certain covenants and restrictions that will be imposed on us in connection with incurring this indebtedness, will, among other things: (a) require us to dedicate a larger portion of our cash flow from operations to servicing and repayment of debt; (b) reduce funds available for strategic initiatives and opportunities, dividends, share repurchases, working capital and other general corporate needs; (c) limit our ability to incur certain kinds or amounts of additional indebtedness, which could restrict our flexibility to react to changes in our business, industry and economic conditions and increase borrowing costs; (d) create competitive disadvantages relative to other companies with lower debt levels and (e) increase our vulnerability to the impact of adverse economic and industry conditions. These covenants and restrictions may limit how our business is conducted. We may not be able to maintain compliance with these covenants and restrictions and, if we fail to do so, we may not be able to obtain waivers thereto and/or amend these covenants and restrictions. Our failure to comply with the covenants and restrictions could result in an event of default, which, if not cured or waived, could result in our being required to repay such indebtedness before its due date or to have to negotiate amendments to or waivers thereof, which may have unfavorable terms or result in the incurrence of additional fees and expenses.

 

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Our ability to make scheduled cash payments on and to refinance our indebtedness and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate significant operating cash flow in the future, which, to a significant extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors, including the continued adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, that are beyond our control. We may not be able to maintain a sufficient level of cash flow from operating activities to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness.

In addition, our credit ratings will impact the cost and availability of future borrowings and, accordingly, our cost of capital. Our ratings will reflect each rating organization’s opinion of our financial strength, operating performance and ability to meet our debt obligations on a combined basis with Diamond. Downgrades in our ratings could adversely affect our businesses, cash flows, financial condition, operating results and share and debt prices, as well as our obligations with respect to our capital efficient inventory acquisitions.

The pro forma financial information included in this proxy statement is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be an indication of our financial condition or results of operations after the merger.

Our operating results after the merger may be materially different from those shown in the pro forma financial information presented in this proxy statement, which does not purport to represent what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would actually have been if the merger had occurred as of the date indicated or what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would be for any future periods. The pro forma financial information contained in this proxy statement is presented for illustrative purposes only, is based on various adjustments, assumptions, judgments, and preliminary estimates and may not be an indication of our future financial condition or results of operations resulting from the merger for several reasons. See the section entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information of HGV and Diamond” beginning on page 133 of this proxy statement. The actual financial condition and results of operations of us following the merger may not be consistent with, or evident from, this pro forma financial information. In addition, the assumptions used in preparing the pro forma financial information may not prove to be accurate, and other factors may affect our financial condition or results of operations following the completion of the merger. Any potential decline in our financial condition or results of operations may cause significant variations in our stock price after merger. The costs, fees and expenses related to the merger could be higher than currently estimated. Further, because the determination of fair value is dependent upon valuations that must be performed as of the date the merger is consummated, the valuations underlying the unaudited pro forma financial information included in this proxy statement may be revised after the date hereof. Any such adjustments to the preliminary estimates of fair value could be material.

Following the completion of the merger, our vacation ownership business will depend on the quality and reputation of the brands associated with the portfolios of each of HGV and Diamond, and any deterioration in the quality or reputation of these brands could adversely affect our market share, reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Following completion of the merger, we intend to offer vacation ownership products and services under the Hilton Vacation Club brand, a new upscale HGV sub-brand that will consist of rebranded Diamond properties, all pursuant to the Amended and Restated License Agreement with Hilton (the “A&R Hilton license agreement”). If the quality of any of these brands deteriorates, or the reputation of these brands declines, including as the result of actions by Hilton, our market share, reputation, business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected. See “Risks Related to our Relationship with Hilton” below.

The maintenance and refurbishment of vacation ownership properties depends on maintenance fees paid by the owners of VOIs.

The maintenance fees that are levied on owners of our and Diamond’s VOIs by property owners’ association boards are used to maintain and refurbish the vacation ownership properties, to maintain reserves for capital expenditures, and to keep the properties in compliance with applicable brand standards. Property owners’

 

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association boards may elect to not levy sufficient maintenance fees, or owners of VOIs may fail to pay their maintenance fees for reasons such as financial hardship, dissatisfaction with the merger or because of damage to their VOIs from natural disasters such as hurricanes. In these circumstances, not only could our and Diamond’s management fee revenue be adversely affected, but the vacation ownership properties could fall into disrepair and fail to comply with applicable brand standards. If a resort fails to comply with applicable brand standards, Hilton could terminate our right under the A&R Hilton license agreement to use its trademarks at the non-compliant resort, which could result in the loss of management fees, decreased customer satisfaction and impairment of our ability to market and sell products at the non-compliant locations. See “Risks Related to Our Relationship with Hilton” below.

If maintenance fees at our or Diamond’s resorts are required to be increased, our or Diamond’s products could become less attractive and our or Diamond’s business could be harmed.

The maintenance fees that are levied on owners of our and Diamond’s VOIs by property owners’ association boards may increase as the costs to maintain and refurbish the vacation ownership properties, to maintain reserves for capital expenditures, and to keep the properties in compliance with brand standards increase. A similar situation may arise with respect to fees imposed on owners of VOIs with respect to new properties added to our portfolio following the completion of the merger. Increased maintenance fees could make our or Diamond’s products less desirable, which could have a negative impact on sales of our or Diamond’s products and could also cause an increase in defaults with respect to our or Diamond’s vacation ownership notes receivable portfolio.

We will incur substantial transaction costs in connection with the merger.

We expect to incur a number of non-recurring expenses both before and after completing the merger, including fees for third party legal, investment banking and advisory services, the costs and expenses of filing, printing and mailing this proxy statement and all filing and other fees paid to the SEC in connection with the merger, obtaining necessary consents and approvals and combining the operations of the two companies. These fees and costs will be substantial. Additional unanticipated costs may be incurred in our integration of Diamond. Although it is expected that the elimination of certain duplicative costs, as well as the realization of other efficiencies related to the integration of the two businesses, will offset the incremental transaction related costs over time, this net benefit may not be achieved in the near term, or at all. Further, if the merger is not completed, we would have to recognize these expenses without realizing the expected benefits of the merger. See “—Risks Related to the Merger—The pro forma financial information included in this proxy statement is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be an indication of our financial condition or results of operations after the merger” above.

Our stockholders will have a reduced ownership and voting interest after the completion of the merger and will exercise less influence over management of us as compared to currently.

Our stockholders currently have the right to vote in the election of the board of directors and on other matters affecting us. Upon the completion of the merger, each Diamond stockholder who receives shares of our common stock will become our stockholder. It is currently expected that the former Diamond stockholders as a group will receive shares in the merger constituting approximately 28% of the shares of our common stock on a fully diluted basis immediately after the completion of the merger. As a result, our current stockholders as a group will own approximately 72% of the shares of our common stock on a fully diluted basis immediately after the completion of the merger. Because of this, our stockholders will have less influence on the management and policies of the combined company than they now have on the management and policies of us prior to the merger.

Our future results will suffer if we do not effectively manage our expanded operations following the completion of the merger.

Following the completion of the merger, the size of our business will increase significantly beyond the current size of either our or Diamond’s current operations. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability

 

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to manage this expanded business, including in non-US jurisdictions where we do not currently have operations, which will pose substantial challenges for management, including challenges related to the management and monitoring of new operations and associated increased costs and complexity. We may also need to obtain approvals of developers or HOAs in various instances to include additional resorts in the Diamond Collections or increase maintenance fees or impose additional requirements in order to meet our brand and operating standards. There can be no assurances that we will be successful or that we will realize the expected operating efficiencies, cost savings and other benefits currently anticipated from the transactions. In addition, there will be increased compliance and regulatory risk as a result of the expanded size of our business.

We may not be able to retain our and/or Diamond personnel successfully after the merger is completed.

The success of the merger will depend in part on our ability to retain the talents and dedication of key employees currently employed by us and Diamond. It is possible that these employees may decide not to remain with us or Diamond, as applicable, while the merger is pending or with us after the merger is consummated.

If key employees terminate their employment, or if an insufficient number of employees are retained to maintain effective operations, our business activities may be adversely affected and management’s attention may be diverted from successfully integrating Diamond to hiring suitable replacements, all of which may cause our business to suffer. In addition, we may not be able to locate suitable replacements for any key employees who leave either company, or offer employment to potential replacements on reasonable terms.

We and Diamond may be subject to complaints, litigation or reputational harm due to dissatisfaction with, or concerns related to, the merger from our current owners.

Our current owners may be concerned about the actual or perceived impact of the merger on their VOIs, including related to a reduced quality of resorts and product offerings due to the increased size of the business and addition of new owners, or increase or change in HOA or other fees. Diamond’s current owners may have similar concerns related to a decline in the quality of product offerings or increase in fees as a result of the merger and increase in size of the business. Complaints or litigation brought by existing owners following the completion of the merger could harm our reputation, discourage potential new owners and adversely impact our results of operations.

Risks Related to Diamond’s Business

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted, and will likely continue to have a significant adverse impact on, the business, financial condition and results of operations of Diamond for the foreseeable future.

Tourism and travel-related industries continue to face significant disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It may be an extended period of time before the business operations of Diamond and its affiliates return to full operational capacity or occupancy, particularly if there remains lingering actual and/or perceived concern and perception of significant transmission and infection risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Diamond has implemented new social distancing, hygiene protocols, and enhanced cleaning measures at its resorts, sales centers, and corporate offices in accordance with guidelines from federal, state and local authorities. Diamond and its subsidiaries’ management implemented and trained team members on the “Diamond Standard of Clean.” These measures, which are intended to protect human life, may result in additional costs, operational inefficiencies, and fewer revenue opportunities.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the various governmental mandates and orders for business closure, Diamond temporarily closed operations at substantially all of their resorts and closed substantially all of their sales centers. With the lifting or easing of such restrictions in certain locations in the United States, Diamond has re-opened the majority of its resorts and sales centers, albeit at reduced capacity levels and revenue has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. However, any re-opening of the resorts may be delayed, interrupted or reversed depending on government orders or recommendations or based on assessments of the state of the pandemic. It may be an extended period of time before the resorts return to pre-pandemic operational capacity or

 

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occupancy, particularly if there remains lingering actual and/or perceived concern and perception of significant transmission and infection risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including in connection with any variant strains of the virus.

Any sustained materially adverse impact on Diamond’s revenues, net income and other operating results due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic could cause Diamond to breach its operating and financial covenants under certain of its debt obligations, which may mean lenders have the right to terminate their commitments under certain debt agreements and declare outstanding loans immediately due and payable.

Diamond operates in a number of locations outside the United States and is subject to certain additional risks related to international operations that are not applicable to our current business.

Diamond manages resorts in and sells VOIs in countries outside of the United States, including in Mexico, Canada, the United Kingdom and several countries in the European Union, which are subject to a number of risks, including compliance with local regulations and laws, regulations restricting the sale of VOIs, compliance with anti-corruption laws and regulations such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, exposure to local economic conditions, potential adverse changes in the political or economic relation of foreign countries with the United States, withholding and restrictions on taxes and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Diamond is and may in the future be subject to litigation in foreign jurisdictions.

In Mexico, the developer of certain of Diamond’s resorts have agreed to requirements that they consider themselves as Mexican nationals with respect to certain property and agree to not invoke the protection of their governments in matters relating to the property. Generally, rules in Mexico limit ownership of land near Mexico’s borders and beaches to Mexican citizens and companies, unless granted the right by the Mexican government. If the developer of Diamond’s resort in Mexico fails to comply with the agreement with the Mexican government, it would forfeit the land back to Mexico.

We do not currently have operations in several of the non-US jurisdictions in which Diamond operates and may lack knowledge or familiarity with the rules and regulations, as well as experience and resources, related to operating such business in these countries.

Interests in Diamond’s resorts are offered through a trust system, which is subject to a number of regulatory and other requirements.

The Diamond Collections located in the United States are alternatives to traditional deeded timeshare ownership, inasmuch as they create a network of available resort accommodations at multiple locations. For those United States-based Diamond Collections, title to the units available through the Diamond Collections is held in a trust or similar arrangement that is administered by an independent trustee (the “Collection Trustee”). A purchaser of a timeshare interest in a Collection does not receive a deeded interest in any specific resort or resort accommodation, but acquires a membership in the timeshare plan which is denominated by an annual or biennial allotment of points. Owners of Diamond’s timeshare interests are allowed to use their allocated points to reserve accommodations at the various component site(s)/participating resort(s) within the Diamond Collections, thereby giving the members greater flexibility to plan their vacations. Owners may also elect to reserve accommodations at resorts that are not part of their Collection through Diamond’s exchange programs.

The Diamond Collections are registered pursuant to, exempted from, or otherwise in compliance with, the applicable statutory requirements for the sale of timeshare plans in a growing number of jurisdictions. Such registrations and formal exemption determinations for the Diamond Collections confirm the substantial compliance with the filing and disclosure requirements of the respective timeshare statutes by the developer of the applicable Diamond Collection. It does not constitute the endorsement of the creation, sale, promotion or operation of the Diamond Collections by any regulatory body nor relieve the developer of a Diamond Collection or any affiliates of such developer of any duty or responsibility under other statutes or any other applicable laws.

 

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Registration under a respective timeshare act (or other applicable law) is not a guarantee or assurance of compliance with applicable law nor an assurance or guarantee of how any judicial body may interpret the Diamond Collections’ compliance therewith. A determination that specific provisions or operations of the Collections do not comply with relevant timeshare acts or applicable law may have a material adverse effect on the developer, the Collection Trustee and the related non-profit members association for each of the Diamond Collections.

Increased activity by third-party exit companies on Diamond and its owners may cause distractions and adversely impact our integration.

Diamond and other timeshare companies continue to be significantly targeted by organized activities of third parties that actively pursue timeshare owners claiming to provide timeshare interest transfers and/or “exit” services. Any increases in the level of participation by the Diamond owners in response to such overtures and/or delinquencies or defaults with respect to the timeshare loans owed by such owners may disrupt Diamond’s business, affect cash flow from collections on the timeshare loans, and generally adversely affect our integration plans of Diamond. In addition, exit companies may target HGV owners to a greater extent than they already do in light of the proposed merger with Diamond.

Risks Related to Our Relationship with Hilton

Our future results may suffer if Hilton seeks to modify or terminate the A&R Hilton license agreement.

We are a party to a license agreement with Hilton under which we license substantially all of the trademarks, brand names and intellectual property used in our business. The A&R Hilton license agreement also permits us to utilize the Hilton Honors program, which is a valuable asset for lead generation. These assets are critical to our business and the modification or amendment the A&R Hilton license agreement or any exercise by Hilton of its termination or other rights under the A&R Hilton license agreement will materially impact our business. The termination or amendment of the A&R Hilton license agreement in whole or in part could result in the loss of the right of HGV to use the Hilton brands in our business as currently conducted as well as in connection with our post-combination business, and in related services offered by Hilton, including marketing channels and guest loyalty programs. The loss of such rights will materially harm our business and results of operations and impair our ability to market and sell our VOI products and maintain our competitive position, and will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Further, it is likely to be very challenging for us to find or develop a comparable replacement for the Hilton brand and the A&R Hilton license agreement. In addition, we may incur liabilities if any such termination results from our alleged breach of the A&R Hilton license agreement.

If the A&R Hilton license agreement is terminated, we may lose our rights to certain brands developed by us in connection with the integration of the Diamond business.

Pursuant to the A&R Hilton license agreement, Hilton would be the sole owner of certain licensed marks related to new brands associated with the Diamond portfolio that are developed by us in connection with our post-combination business. If, following the completion of the merger, we default under the A&R Hilton license agreement, we could lose the right to use one or more of such new brands. The loss of these rights and/or certain other related rights could materially adversely affect our ability to generate revenue and profits from the vacation ownership business associated with the Diamond portfolio. The termination of the A&R Hilton license agreement following completion of the merger would materially harm our combined business and results of operations and impair our ability to market and sell our products and maintain our competitive position.

Our ability to integrate the Diamond business and otherwise expand our business and remain competitive could be harmed if Hilton does not consent to the use of their trademarks in connection with the conversion of Diamond properties and/or new resorts that we may acquire or develop in the future.

Under the terms of the A&R Hilton license agreement, we must obtain Hilton’s approval to use the Hilton brand names and trademarks in connection with the conversion of the Diamond properties to branded properties

 

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using the Hilton marks, as well as for the branding of timeshare properties that we acquire or develop in the future. If Hilton does not permit us to use its trademarks in connection with such conversion and integration on a timely basis or at all, or in connection with any other timeshare properties that we may acquire in the future pursuant to any future development or acquisition plans, or if we cannot come to an agreement with Hilton on how to brand and operate Diamond properties that are not approved by Hilton, our ability to successfully integrate Diamond and otherwise expand our business and remain competitive may be materially adversely affected. The requirement to obtain approval for such conversion and integration of Diamond properties and any future expansion plans, or the need to identify and secure alternative solutions because we cannot obtain such approval, may delay implementation of our integration and/or expansion plans or cause us to incur additional expense related to the branding of our properties.

Our ability to integrate the Diamond business depends on our compliance with the A&R Hilton license agreement, including the “Separate Operations” provisions and certain prohibitions on doing business with competitors. While the parties intend to provide some revisions to the applicable requirements, strict compliance with such provisions will negatively impact the synergies and efficiencies related to the Diamond acquisition.

For now, we have agreed with Hilton to operate the Diamond business as a “Separate Operation” under the A&R Hilton license agreement. Complying with that requirement can be costly and difficult and will likely significantly diminish the efficiencies and synergies that are critical to our successful integration of the Diamond business. In addition, the A&R Hilton license agreement requires Hilton’s approval in connection with our anticipated conversion of the Diamond properties into our branded properties and/or Hilton Vacation Club or another new brand of properties, and the creation of any such new brand also requires Hilton’s consent. While we and Hilton have agreed to modify the Separate Operations requirements, with such modifications to be made in Hilton’s sole discretion, so as to allow us to achieve greater operating efficiency and synergy than currently provided for, any failure of the parties to do so will adversely impact such operating efficiency and synergy. In addition, any failure to obtain Hilton’s approval with respect to the creation of any new brand or the conversion of the Diamond properties into such new brand or existing branded properties will significantly harm our ability to integrate the Diamond business and its properties. If we cannot come to an agreement with Hilton on how to brand and operate Diamond properties that do not currently or will not in the future meet the Hilton brand standards, then we will be required to continue to operate them as separate operations.

In addition, the A&R Hilton license agreement contains a number of prohibitions on us entering into certain agreements and arrangements with competitors of Hilton. As a result of the merger, we will assume Diamond’s contracts with third parties, a number which are with competitors of Hilton and are prohibited under the A&R Hilton license agreement. The A&R Hilton license agreement provides for a cure period for agreements or arrangements related to the Diamond business that would result in a violation or breach of provisions in the A&R Hilton license agreement. However, to the extent we are not able to terminate such agreements within the cure period or we are unable to obtain a waiver from Hilton, we may breach the A&R Hilton license agreement.

Risks Related to Our Business

You should read and consider risk factors specific to our businesses that will also affect the combined company after the completion of the merger. These risks are described in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and Part II, Item IA of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, and in other documents that are incorporated by reference into this proxy statement. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement for the location of information incorporated by reference in this proxy statement.

 

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THE PARTIES

HGV

We are a timeshare company that markets and sells VOIs, manages resorts in top leisure and urban destinations, and operates a points-based vacation club. As of March 31, 2021, we had 62 properties, representing 499,616 are primarily located in vacation destinations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, the Hawaiian Islands, New York City, Washington D.C., South Carolina, Barbados and Mexico and feature spacious, condominium-style accommodations with superior amenities and quality service. As of March 31, 2021, we had approximately 330,000 Club members. Club members have the flexibility to exchange their VOIs for stays at any Hilton Grand Vacations resort or any property in the Hilton system of 18 industry-leading brands across approximately 6,500 properties, as well as numerous experiential vacation options, such as cruises and guided tours.

Our compelling VOI product allows customers to advance purchase a lifetime of vacations. Because our VOI owners generally purchase only the vacation time they intend to use each year, they are able to efficiently split the full cost of owning and maintaining a vacation residence with other owners. Our customers also benefit from the high-quality amenities and service at our Hilton-branded resorts. Furthermore, our points-based platform offers members flexibility, enabling us to more effectively adapt to their changing vacation needs over time. Building on the strength of that platform, we continuously seek new ways to add value to our Club membership, including enhanced product offerings, greater geographic distribution, broader exchange networks and further technological innovation, all of which drive better, more personalized vacation experiences and guest satisfaction.

We operate our business across two segments: real estate sales and financing and resort operations and club management. Our real estate sales and financing segment primarily generates revenue from VOI sales and consumer financing in connection with such sales, and our resort operations and club management segment primarily generates revenue from resort management, Club management and transient rental of available VOI inventory.

On January 3, 2017, Hilton completed a tax-free spin-off of HGV and Park Hotels & Resorts Inc. As a result of the spin-off, HGV became an independent publicly-traded company. Our common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “HGV.”

Our executive offices are located at 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839 and our telephone number is (407) 613-3100.

This proxy statement incorporates important business and financial information about us from other documents that are incorporated by reference; see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

HGV Borrower

HGV Borrower is a wholly-owned subsidiary through which we indirectly own all of our assets and conduct substantially all of our business. HGV Borrower, together with other subsidiaries, are also issuers and guarantors of our outstanding senior unsecured notes and other borrowings. HGV Borrower is a party to the merger agreement and will be the surviving entity after its merger with Diamond and will be the subsidiary through which we will own all of Diamond’s assets and operate all of Diamond’s business immediately after the merger. HGV Borrower’s executive offices are located at 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839, and its telephone number is (407) 613-3100.

 

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Diamond

Diamond Resorts International, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including Diamond Resorts Corporation (collectively, “DRI”), are a global leader in the hospitality industry and the largest, independent-branded vacation ownership company that markets and sells Vacation Interests, manages resorts, multi-resort trusts and the Diamond Collections in key vacation destinations, and operates points-based vacation clubs. As of March 31, 2021, DRI’s portfolio consists of 110 Portfolio Properties representing approximately 14,198 units. In addition, DRI’s global resort network includes 229 affiliated resorts and hotels (which DRI does not manage and do not carry its brand, but are a part of DRI’s exchange network). Through its innovative and extensive distribution network, DRI sells a points-based Vacation Interests product, which allows its owners to travel to 339 vacation destinations located in 34 countries throughout the world, including key leisure destinations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, the Hawaiian Islands, Mexico, and Europe.

DRI believes it is unique within the vacation ownership industry in its infusion of hospitality and experiences through the full life cycle of an owner or member’s relationship with its properties. DRI’s marketing has increasingly emphasized unique experiences to generate new customers and repeat business through its innovative Events of a Lifetime®, Diamond Resorts Concert Series, Diamond Dream Holidays, and related programs. These drive high-quality leads to its hospitality focused sales processes. DRI continuously creates new offerings both pre- and post-stay for its members to drive affinity. Existing members are also offered additional unique experiences and the opportunity to enhance and upgrade their ownership. As a result, DRI is able to realize substantial lifetime value both from and for its members – often significantly in excess of their initial purchases.

DRI’s flexible Vacation Interests product allows customers to purchase a lifetime of experiences. Its members receive an annual or biennial allotment of points and, depending on the number of points purchased, can use these points to stay at destinations within its network of resort properties while maintaining flexibility relating to the location, season and duration of their vacation. DRI’s points-based product also allows its owners to redeem their annual points for numerous alternative experiential vacation options, such as cruises or guided tours, as well as events such as the Events of a Lifetime® series among others. DRI seeks to continuously improve its value proposition to its existing or new owners by enhancing its product offerings, expanding the geographic diversity of its resort network, and providing best-in-class customer service.

DRI’s operations consist of two interrelated businesses: (i) Vacation Interest sales and financing, which includes the marketing and sale of Vacation Interests and consumer financing for purchasers of Vacation Interests and (ii) hospitality and management services, which includes management of resort properties and trusts, operation of its vacation programs and resort amenities, and the provision of other hospitality and management services.

DRI’s principal executive offices are located at 10600 West Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89135 and its telephone number is (702) 684-8000.

Dakota Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is the parent company of DRI and is controlled by investment funds and vehicles managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. Its principal executive offices are located at 10600 West Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89135 and its telephone number is (702) 684-8000.

Apollo

Founded in 1990, Apollo Global Management, Inc. (“Apollo”) is a leading global alternative investment manager with offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, Houston, Bethesda, London, Frankfurt, Madrid, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Delhi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo. Apollo had assets under management of approximately $461.1 billion as of March 31, 2021 in credit, private equity and real assets funds invested across a core group of nine industries where Apollo has considerable knowledge and resources.

Apollo’s principal executive offices are located at 9 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 and its telephone number is (212) 513-3200.

 

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SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This proxy statement, including information included or incorporated by reference herein, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can typically identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “goal,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “budget,” “should,” “continue,” “could,” “forecast,” “may,” “might,” “potential,” “strategy,” “will,” “would,” “seek,” “estimate,” or variations of such words and similar expressions, although the absence of any such words or expressions does not mean that a particular statement is not a forward-looking statement. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. It is important to note that Diamond’s and our goals and expectations are not predictions of actual performance. Any statements about the benefits of the merger, or Diamond’s or our future financial condition, results of operations and business are also forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the preceding sentence, certain statements contained in the sections entitled “The Merger— Background of the Merger,” “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board,” “The Merger—Opinion our Financial Advisor” may also constitute forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements represent our intentions, plans, expectations, assumptions and beliefs about future events, including the completion of the merger, and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors. Many of these factors are outside our control and could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In addition to the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 22 of this proxy statement, these factors include:

 

   

those that we have identified and disclosed in our filings with the SEC;

 

   

failing to obtain our stockholder approval of the stock issuance proposal in connection with the issuance of shares of our common stock to Diamond stockholders as consideration in the merger;

 

   

satisfying the conditions to the closing of the merger;

 

   

the length of time necessary to complete the merger;

 

   

pending and possible additional litigation related to the merger;

 

   

successfully integrating our and Diamond’s businesses, and avoiding problems which may result in us not operating as effectively and efficiently as expected following the completion of the merger;

 

   

the possibility that the expected benefits of the merger will not be realized within the expected time frame or at all;

 

   

prevailing economic, market and business conditions;

 

   

the cost and availability of capital and any restrictions imposed by lenders or creditors;

 

   

changes in the industry in which we and Diamond operate;

 

   

conditions beyond our or Diamond’s control, such as disaster, pandemics, epidemics, acts of war or terrorism; the weather and other natural phenomena, including the economic, operational and other effects of severe weather or climate events, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, volcanos, ice, sleet, or snowstorms;

 

   

the failure to renew, or the revocation of, any license or other required permits;

 

   

unexpected charges or unexpected liabilities arising from a change in accounting policies, or the effects of acquisition accounting varying from the companies’ expectations;

 

   

the risk that our and our subsidiaries’ credit ratings following the completion of the merger may be different from what we expect, which may increase borrowing costs and/or make it more difficult for us to pay or refinance our and our subsidiaries’ debts and require us to borrow or divert cash flow from operations in order to service debt payments;

 

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the effects on the companies’ businesses resulting from uncertainty surrounding the merger, including uncertainty for the companies’ relationship with employees, labor unions, holders of licensed marks, developers and franchisors, and the response of key suppliers and licensors to our and Diamond’s licensed brand expansion or the diversion of management’s time and attention;

 

   

the effects on the companies of future regulatory or legislative actions, including changes in laws and regulations to which we, Diamond or its subsidiaries are subject;

 

   

the conduct of and changing circumstances related to third-party relationships on which we and Diamond rely, including the level of creditworthiness of counterparties;

 

   

the volatility and unpredictability of stock market and credit market conditions;

 

   

fluctuations in interest rates;

 

   

variations between the stated assumptions on which forward-looking statements are based and our and Diamond’s actual experience; and

 

   

other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.

For any forward-looking statements made in this proxy statement or in any documents incorporated by reference, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the merger or other matters addressed in this proxy statement and attributable to us or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this proxy statement.

You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this proxy statement and should be read in conjunction with the risk factors and other disclosures contained or incorporated by reference into this proxy statement. The areas of risk and uncertainty described above, which are not exhaustive, should be considered in connection with any written or oral forward-looking statements that may be made in this proxy statement or on, before or after the date of this proxy statement by us or anyone acting for us. We undertake no obligation to release publicly or otherwise make any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or circumstances after the date of this proxy statement or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events, unless, and only to the extent, required by law.

Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in reports we have filed with the SEC. For a list of the documents incorporated by reference, see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

 

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THE SPECIAL MEETING

This proxy statement is being provided to our stockholders as part of a solicitation of proxies by our board of directors for use at the special meeting to be held at the time and place specified below, and at any properly convened meeting following an adjournment or postponement thereof. This proxy statement and the information incorporated by reference herein provides our stockholders with the information they need to know to be able to vote or instruct their vote to be cast at the special meeting.

Date, Time and Place

The special meeting is scheduled to be held at • a.m. Eastern Time, on • , 2021 at • .

Purpose of the HGV Special Meeting

At the special meeting, and any adjournments or postponements thereof, you will be asked to consider and vote on:

 

   

the stock issuance proposal;

 

   

the compensation proposal; and

 

   

the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, to solicit additional proxies if there are not sufficient votes to approve the stock issuance proposal.

Recommendation of Our Board of Directors

Our board of directors, after careful consideration of the various factors described under “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement, at a meeting held on March 8, 2021, unanimously determined that the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of us and our stockholders; authorized and approved the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement by a unanimous vote; and adopted resolutions directing that the stock issuance proposal be submitted to our stockholders for their consideration.

In evaluating the merger, our board of directors consulted with and received the advice of our outside legal and financial advisors, held discussions with our management and considered a number of factors that it believed supported its decision to enter into the merger agreement. These factors included, but were not limited to, those listed in “The Merger—Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement.

Accordingly, our board of directors unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, “FOR” the compensation proposal and “FOR” the adjournment proposal.

In relation to the compensation proposal, except with respect to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, we do not intend to terminate any of our executive officers in connection with the merger and, accordingly, we do not anticipate making any change in control payments, accelerated vesting or benefit enhancements to our other named executive officers as a result of the merger.

Record Date; Stockholders Entitled to Vote

Only holders of record of our common stock at the close of business on • , 2021, the record date for the special meeting, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting, or any adjournment or

 

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postponement thereof. At the close of business on the record date, • shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding and held by • holders of record.

Holders of record of our common stock on the record date are entitled to one vote per share at the special meeting on each proposal. A list of the names of our stockholders of record will be open to the examination by any stockholder for any purpose germane to the special meeting for ten days before the special meeting during regular business hours at our headquarters, 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839. The HGV stockholder list will also be available at the special meeting for examination by any stockholder present at such meeting.

Voting by our Directors and Executive Officers

At the close of business on the record date, our directors and executive officers were entitled to vote • shares of our common stock, or approximately • % of the shares of our common stock outstanding on that date. We currently expect that all of our directors and executive officers will vote their shares in favor of each proposal being submitted to a vote of our stockholders at the special meeting, although none of them has entered into any agreement obligating them to do so.

Quorum

No business may be transacted at the special meeting unless a quorum is present. The presence of the holders of a majority in voting power of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the special meeting, present in person or represented by proxy, is required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the special meeting. If a quorum is not present, or if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the special meeting to approve the stock issuance proposal, the special meeting may be adjourned to allow more time for obtaining additional proxies or votes. At any subsequent reconvening of the special meeting, all proxies will be voted in the same manner as they would have been voted at the original convening of the special meeting, except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked or withdrawn before the adjourned meeting.

Abstentions (shares of our common stock for which proxies have been received but for which the holders have abstained from voting) will be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved. However, broker non-votes will not be included in the calculation of the number of shares of our common stock represented at the special meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved.

Required Vote

The approval of the stock issuance proposal and the compensation proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. The approval of the adjournment proposal, if necessary or appropriate, requires the affirmative vote of the stockholders of a majority in voting power present if a quorum is not present, or, if a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes cast. Failures to vote and broker non-votes, if any, will have no effect on the stock issuance proposal, the compensation proposal or the adjournment proposal.

Failure to Vote, Broker Non-Votes and Abstentions

If your shares of our common stock are held in “street name” in a stock brokerage account or by another nominee, you must provide the record holder of your shares with instructions on how to vote your shares. Please follow the voting instructions provided by your bank, broker or other nominee. You may not vote shares of our common stock held in street name by returning a proxy card directly to HGV or by voting at the special meeting unless you provide a “legal proxy,” which you must first obtain from your bank, broker or other nominee.

 

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Banks, brokers or other nominees who hold shares of our common stock in street name for a beneficial owner typically have the authority to vote in their discretion on “routine” proposals, even when they have not received instructions from beneficial owners. However, banks, brokers or other nominees are not allowed to exercise their voting discretion on matters that are determined to be “non-routine” without specific instructions from the beneficial owner. A “broker non-vote” is a vote that, in accordance with stock exchange rules, is not cast by a broker on a non-routine matter because the bank, broker or other nominee has not received instructions from the beneficial owner of such shares to vote on the particular proposal and the bank, broker or other nominee does not have discretionary voting power on such proposal.

Under the written rules of the NYSE, banks, brokers or other nominees do not have discretionary authority to vote on any of the proposals to be voted upon at this special meeting. Therefore, if you are an HGV stockholder who holds shares in “street name” and you do not instruct your bank, broker or other nominee on how to vote your shares, your bank, broker or other nominee may not vote your shares on any of these proposals, and the resulting broker non-vote will have no effect on these proposals.

Instructions to “ABSTAIN” for each proposal to be voted upon at the special meeting will be counted for purposes of determining the number of shares present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining a quorum. Abstentions will not be included in the vote totals for each proposal and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote on the proposals. If you return your signed proxy card but do not mark the boxes indicating how you wish to vote, your shares will be voted “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, “FOR” the compensation proposal, on an advisory basis, and, if necessary or appropriate, “FOR” any proposal to adjourn the special meeting.

Voting at the Special Meeting

Whether or not you plan to attend the special meeting, please vote your shares. If you are a registered or “record” holder, which means your shares are registered in your name with EQ Shareowner Services, our transfer agent, you may vote in person at the special meeting or be represented by proxy. If your shares are held in “street name,” which means your shares are held of record in an account with a bank, broker or other nominee, you must follow the instructions from your bank, broker or other nominee in order to vote, and must obtain a legal proxy from your bank, broker or other nominee in order to vote in person at the special meeting. Please contact your bank, broker or other nominee for further information on how to obtain such legal proxy. You will not be able to vote your shares at the special meeting without a legal proxy from your bank, broker or other nominee. If you do not plan to attend the special meeting or do not wish to vote at the special meeting, you may authorize proxies to vote your shares by written proxy, by telephone or over the internet.

Voting by Proxy

You should vote your proxy in advance of the meeting even if you plan to attend the special meeting. If you are an HGV stockholder of record, a proxy card is enclosed for your use. If you wish to authorize proxies to vote your shares by telephone or over the internet, you may use the toll-free telephone number or access the electronic link to the proxy voting site by following the instructions on the proxy card. Our stockholders of record may also submit their proxies through the mail by completing the enclosed proxy card, and signing, dating and returning it in the enclosed, pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope. To be valid, a returned proxy card must be signed.

If you hold your shares of our common stock in street name (i.e., through a bank, broker or other nominee), you will find enclosed instructions from your bank, broker or other nominee that you must follow in order to vote your shares. You may authorize proxies to vote your shares by telephone or over the internet if your bank, broker or other nominee makes these methods available, as detailed on the enclosed voting instruction form. You may also return your voting instructions by signing, dating and returning the enclosed voting instruction form in the postage-paid envelope provided.

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. ACCORDINGLY, PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR PROXY PROMPTLY, BY TELEPHONE, INTERNET OR MAIL WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING.

 

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How Proxies are Counted

All shares represented by properly executed proxies received in time for the special meeting will be voted at the meeting in the manner specified by the stockholders giving those proxies. Properly executed proxies that do not contain voting instructions will be voted “FOR” each of the proposals covered by this proxy statement.

Only shares affirmatively voted for the proposals, and properly executed proxies that do not contain voting instructions, will be counted as “FOR” the proposals submitted by us as described in this proxy statement. Abstentions will not be included in the vote totals for each proposal and will have no effect on the outcome of the vote on any of the proposals. Failures to vote and broker non-votes, if any, will have no effect on the outcome of any of the proposals.

Revocation of Proxies

You can change your vote or revoke your proxy at any time before your proxy is voted at the special meeting. If you are a stockholder of record, you can do this in one of three ways:

 

   

you can grant a new, valid proxy bearing a later date, including by telephone or through the internet before the closing of those voting facilities at • on •  , 2021;

 

   

you can send a signed notice of revocation to Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., 5323 Millenia Lakes Boulevard, Suite 120, Orlando, Florida 32839, Attention: Corporate Secretary, which must be received prior to • on •  , 2021; or

 

   

you can attend and vote at the special meeting, which will revoke any proxy previously given. Simply attending the special meeting without voting will not revoke any proxy that you have previously given or otherwise change your vote.

A registered stockholder may revoke a proxy by any of these methods, regardless of the method used to deliver the stockholder’s previous proxy.

If you are a “beneficial holder” who holds shares of our common stock in “street name,” you must contact your bank, broker or other nominee to change your vote. If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker or other nominee and you decide to change your vote by attending the special meeting and voting in person at the special meeting, you will not be able to vote unless you have obtained and present a legal proxy issued in your name from the record holder (your bank, broker or nominee).

Tabulation of Votes

A representative of • will serve as the Inspector of Election for the special meeting. • will independently tabulate affirmative and negative votes and abstentions.

Solicitation of Proxies

We are soliciting proxies for the special meeting from our stockholders. We will pay our own cost of soliciting proxies, including the cost of mailing this proxy statement, from our stockholders. In addition to solicitation by use of the mails, proxies may be solicited by each of our directors and certain members of our management team, each of whom may be deemed a participant in this solicitation, in person or by telephone or other means of communication. These persons will not receive additional compensation, but may be reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with this solicitation.

We have retained Okapi Partners LLC to provide investor response services and assist in the solicitation of proxies at a solicitation fee of up to $45,000, plus related reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. We will make arrangements with brokerage houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries to forward proxy solicitation materials

 

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to beneficial owners of shares held of record by them. We will also reimburse these brokerage houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their reasonable expenses incurred in forwarding the proxy materials.

Adjournments

Any adjournment of the special meeting may be made from time to time by the chairman of the meeting or, if a quorum is not present, a majority in voting power of the stockholders present, or if a quorum is present, the holders of a majority of the votes cast without further notice other than by an announcement of the time and place of the adjourned meeting made at the special meeting; provided, however, that if the adjournment is for more than thirty days, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting. If after the adjournment a new record date for stockholders entitled to vote is fixed for the adjourned meeting, our board of directors shall fix a new record date for notice of such adjourned meeting and shall give notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such adjourned meeting as of the record date for notice of such adjourned meeting. If a quorum is not present at the special meeting, or if there are not sufficient votes at the time of the special meeting to approve the stock issuance proposal, then our stockholders may be asked to vote on a proposal to adjourn the special meeting so as to permit the further solicitation of proxies.

 

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THE MERGER

The following is a discussion of the merger and the material terms of the merger agreement between us, Diamond and Diamond’s stockholders. We urge you to carefully read the merger agreement in its entirety, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to this proxy statement and is incorporated by reference herein.

Effect of the Merger

The merger agreement provides that, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the merger agreement and in accordance with the DGCL, we will acquire Diamond in a series of transactions, which are referred to as the merger.

As part of a series of transactions leading to the merger, (i) Dakota Intermediate, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving; (ii) thereafter, Dakota Parent, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving; and (iii) thereafter, DRI will merge with and into Diamond, with the latter surviving.

At closing, Diamond will be merged with and into HGV Borrower, with HGV Borrower surviving the merger and continuing to exist as a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV. As a result of the merger, (i) each share of Diamond common stock (other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond) will be converted into the right to receive the merger consideration and (ii) each in-the-money option, whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to the option consideration (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option).

Background of the Merger

After our spin-off from Hilton in January 2017 to become an independent, publicly-traded company, our newly constituted board of directors and senior management focused on ensuring appropriate corporate governance and board oversight, financial reporting, internal controls over financial reporting, investor communications, and other significant areas that are critical to the success of a new public company. With oversight from our board of directors, our senior management prioritized proper execution and management of our core business and fully leveraging our license arrangement with Hilton. During the course of 2017 and early 2018, two of our significant stockholders, The Blackstone Group and its affiliates (“Blackstone”), which owned an aggregate of approximately 40% of our common stock immediately after the spin-off, and HNA Group and its affiliates (“HNA”), which owned 24% of our common stock as a result of their purchase of our shares of common stock from Blackstone, sold all of their interests in us in multiple public offerings. As a result, one director who was designated by Blackstone and two directors (one independent and one affiliate) designated by HNA had either resigned from our board of directors or elected not to stand for re-election by May 2018.

Thereafter, our board of directors and senior management focused on the overall strategic direction of the company, and on an ongoing basis, our board of directors and senior management team reviewed our performance and future growth prospects, and considered potential opportunities to strengthen our businesses and enhance stockholder value, including the review of our strategy on a standalone basis and potential opportunities for business combinations, acquisitions and other financial and strategic alternatives.

Starting in the summer of 2019, as part of our ongoing strategic evaluation, we explored different potential strategic alternatives, including acquisitions, combinations, sale and similar transactions, and engaged in discussions with several interested parties, including with Apollo and Diamond. As part of such discussions with Apollo and Diamond, Mr. Mark Wang, our President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael Flaskey, Chief Executive Officer of Diamond, and Mr. David Sambur, Co-Lead Partner of Private Equity at Apollo, considered our and Diamond’s respective businesses, as well as potential opportunities, including a combination structure involving us and Diamond.

 

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As part of such discussion to explore a potential transaction, we, Apollo and Diamond entered into confidentiality agreements in September 2019. In addition, we, together with BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofA Securities”), our financial advisor for such strategic evaluation, and our legal advisors, and Apollo and Diamond, together with their financial and legal advisors, conducted due diligence of each other. Our discussions and mutual diligence with Apollo and Diamond lasted through the end of 2019 and into March of 2020. At the time, our board of directors had selected BofA Securities to act as our financial advisor based on, among other things, its qualifications, expertise and reputation, and its knowledge of our business and affairs and familiarity with us and the industry in which we operate. Among other experiences, BofA Securities had significant hospitality, gaming and real estate M&A and capital markets experience. BofA Securities and its affiliates also had served as a key lead bank in our credit facility syndicate of banks and lead underwriter under our ABS program. As part of such engagement, our board of directors evaluated whether BofA Securities had any material conflicts with respect to the parties involved or potentially involved.

While such discussions and strategic explorations were continuing, in late February 2020 and early March 2020, positive cases of the COVID-19 virus began to proliferate rapidly around the world. During the same period, global travel, leisure, hospitality, and other related sectors began to experience significant disruptions due to the continued unfolding of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic continued to spread, more and more countries began to impose quarantines, shelter-in-place orders and similar restrictions, including restrictions on travel, which only exacerbated already significant disruptions on the global health, social, economic, and political sectors. Between mid-February 2020 through March 2020, the global stock markets began to experience significant volatility due to the pandemic and its widespread impact. On March 9, 2020, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (“DJIA”) lost more than 2,000 points in one day, the biggest one-day drop in its history. In barely four trading days, the DJIA plunged 6,400 points, an equivalent to approximately 26% of the total market value. Foreign stock markets experienced similar drops and volatility, including London’s FTSE 100 which lost more than 7.7% in one trading day.

The pandemic triggered a worldwide health, financial and economic crisis, including in the United States. During the ensuing months, as more and more U.S. local and state government agencies adopted quarantine and similar orders, a substantial number of hospitality, travel, and leisure businesses were forced to shut down.

The impact on our business and our stock price was no less severe. Our stock price dropped more than 68% from $32.97 on February 14, 2020, prior to the onset of the pandemic, to $10.53 on March 18, 2020. By the end of April 2020, in response to the pandemic and the governmental quarantine and similar orders, we closed virtually all of our properties and sales center operations. Like many other companies, we began to take a number of significant steps to preserve our business and liquidity in response to the pandemic and protect our stockholders, including drawing on our available amounts under our credit facility to maximize liquidity, making significant cuts to capital and inventory spending, amending our credit and warehouse facilities to provide temporary relief from financial and other covenant compliance, implementing furloughs and, eventually, workforce reductions, implementing salary cuts, including for our executive officers and directors, and adopting a stockholder rights plan. Our focus rapidly pivoted to safeguarding our owners, guests and team members, and, eventually, re-opening properties, sales locations and offices while protecting our owners, guests and team members, while implementing steps to create incremental value, including repeat owner sales with new inventory offerings, preservation of future tours by extending travel dates, ongoing work on new product offerings and partnerships, and expansion of our new virtual sales model. Accordingly, during this time, we ceased all review and exploration of, and discussions with third parties regarding potential strategic alternatives, financing and similar transactions.

As we began to re-open our properties, sales locations and offices in early June 2020 and worked towards returning to more normal business operations and conditions, Mr. Wang and the rest of our senior management team evaluated our strategic and capital allocation goals and options, including the possible acquisition of Diamond. Mr. Wang believed that combining our and Diamond’s businesses could help further drive our business to return to growth and achieve faster recovery from the pandemic in light of the complementary mix of

 

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properties between the two companies and resort locations. In early June, Mr. Wang discussed with representatives from BofA Securities the possibility of us acquiring Diamond. Shortly thereafter, BofA Securities contacted Mr. Sambur on our behalf to gauge Apollo’s interest in selling all of the Apollo Investors’ interests in Diamond to us, with Mr. Sambur indicating that he would be interested in exploring such a transaction.

On June 9, 2020, Mr. Sambur presented to Mr. Wang Apollo’s preliminary thoughts on a hypothetical all-stock combination transaction involving HGV and Diamond that could potentially create significant value for both companies’ stockholders and achieve certain synergies on a combined basis. Being keenly aware of the disruption that the pandemic had caused in the travel, leisure and lodging sectors, they agreed there could be potential added benefits of combining the two companies once the severity of the pandemic receded and consumers re-commenced leisure travel. Afterwards, Mr. Wang and the rest of our senior management discussed with BofA Securities the possibility of our acquisition of Diamond, potential valuation, and structure.

Between June 19, 2020 and June 25, 2020, our senior management met with representatives of BofA Securities numerous times to discuss the potential acquisition, synergies, capital structure, and diligence involving Diamond.

Based on such discussions, on June 25, 2020, BofA Securities, on our behalf, presented to Apollo an illustrative transaction structure whereby we would acquire 100% of the equity interest in Diamond in an all-stock transaction in exchange for approximately 29% of the total ownership in the combined company representing an equity value of approximately $935.0 million at the then-current trading price comprised of an upfront payment in our common stock valued at $497.0 million for approximately 22% equity interest, plus deferred contingent payment of $438.0 million for an additional 7% equity interest in the form of warrants or similar instruments, which would be payable in a series of tranches when our stock price crosses certain thresholds, for 50% of the value of the expected cost synergy. Such structure and potential consideration were based on limited financial information and prior to any formal financial or legal diligence, and were intended for further discussion and evaluation purposes only.

Between June 26, 2020 and July 31, 2020, our senior management continued to meet with representatives of BofA Securities numerous times to discuss the potential acquisition involving Diamond.

On August 5, 2020, at a regularly scheduled meeting, our board of directors met with representatives of our senior management to discuss the state of the timeshare industry during the pandemic, the potential recovery timeline, a potential acquisition of Diamond, and other potential value-creating opportunities with respect to an acquisition involving Diamond. Following discussion, our board of directors agreed our senior management should continue to explore such an opportunity with Apollo and Diamond’s management.

On August 11, 2020, our senior management informed senior management of Hilton that we were considering a potential acquisition of Diamond. Our senior management and the senior management of Hilton discussed the strategic merits and risks of the proposed transaction. Among other matters, we discussed Hilton’s consent that would be required under the license agreement for the acquisition, and the need to explore certain modification to the current license agreement to allow us to achieve desired synergy and value in connection such potential transaction.

On August 14, 2020, our senior management, BofA Securities, and certain representatives of Apollo held a telephone conference to discuss preliminary scope of due diligence, including our initial critical request list.

Shortly afterwards, on August 18, 2020, our senior management, BofA Securities, representatives of Apollo, and senior management of Diamond held a call to discuss an overview of our rebranding and brand integration planning and strategy as part of any acquisition of Diamond by us.

Starting on August 21, 2020, we and BofA Securities were given access to Diamond’s electronic data room. Our senior management, certain of our senior team members who were privy to such evaluation, and BofA Securities commenced financial diligence of Diamond based on available information in the data room.

 

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Between August 27, 2020 and September 25, 2020, certain representatives from our senior management, Apollo, Diamond, BofA Securities, and Credit Suisse, financial advisor to Diamond, participated in a number of telephonic meetings to continue our discussions on exploring a possible acquisition transaction and covered a number of topics, including operational and financial diligence, financial projections, valuations and potential synergies.

On September 23, 2020, as we continued our discussions with Apollo and Diamond, Diamond provided us with financial forecasts through the electronic data room for our review and evaluation. Our senior management reviewed the materials, together with other existing materials, and continued to discuss the potential valuation and feasibility of a transaction with representatives of BofA Securities.

On October 5, 2020, our senior management met again with senior management of Hilton to present our rebranding and repositioning strategy to integrate Diamond. During the meeting, we discussed the potential that the transaction might cause our timeshare business to grow, to the benefit of both HGV and Hilton. We also discussed a “ramp-up” of the license fee under the Hilton license agreement that would be applicable with respect to the integration of the Diamond business into our platform.

On October 9, 2020, our board of directors discussed via teleconference with our senior management and representatives of BofA Securities to receive an update from our senior management and BofA Securities regarding general strategic and financial considerations relating to a potential acquisition of Diamond and related discussions with Apollo and Diamond. Our senior management discussed with our board of directors preliminary strategic and economic rationales, as well as potential risks, for pursuing such acquisition. In addition, our senior management, together with representatives from BofA Securities, provided to our board of directors an overview of the Diamond projections, our and BofA Securities’ preliminary revisions to such projections, our projections, and preliminary valuation of Diamond. In addition, based on such preliminary evaluation, our senior management presented an overview of a potential all-stock acquisition of Diamond at an equity value of approximately $840.0 million, comprised of upfront and deferred contingent payments. Our board of directors agreed that our senior management should continue to explore a possible acquisition of Diamond and to submit a preliminary, non-binding proposal to Apollo reflecting such structure.

On October 19, 2020, BofA Securities presented to Apollo and Credit Suisse a non-binding proposal on behalf of HGV regarding a potential acquisition by us of 100% of the equity interests of Diamond in an all-stock transaction whereby the former Diamond stockholders would own an aggregate of approximately 28% of the total ownership in the combined company (representing an equity value of approximately $838.0 million at the then-current trading price), comprised of an upfront payment in our common stock valued at $466.0 million for approximately 20% equity interest, plus a deferred contingent payment of $372.0 million for an additional 8% equity interest in the form of warrants or similar instruments for 50% of the value of the expected cost synergy. As an alternative, the warrants could be payable in a series of tranches when our stock price crossed certain thresholds.

In addition, on October 19, 2020, our senior management again met with senior management of Hilton during which our senior management presented a preliminary ramp-up license fee structure proposal with respect to the Diamond acquisition during the integration of the Diamond business and other related matters, and discussed Hilton’s consent that would be required under the license agreement for the acquisition.

On October 23, 2020, our senior management held a telephonic call with representatives from Apollo and Diamond to discuss both companies’ projections, business prospects, and potential cost and revenue synergies.

Throughout October 2020, our senior management continued to refine synergy assumptions, Hilton license fee modeling, and rebranding strategy. We responded to information requests from Apollo, Diamond, Credit Suisse, and PricewaterhouseCoopers, Diamond’s tax and accounting advisor, as well as Hilton. We also made information and diligence requests to Apollo, Diamond and its advisors. During this time, our senior

 

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management also engaged in discussions with BofA Securities regarding financial and cost synergies of the transaction, as well as debt financing strategy to consummate the Diamond acquisition, including bridge financing.

On November 3, 2020, at a regularly scheduled meeting, our board of directors met with our senior management to discuss further updates on discussions between us and Apollo and Diamond regarding our potential acquisition of Diamond.

On November 10, 2020, Diamond and Credit Suisse presented certain updates to Diamond’s forecast of 2022 adjusted EBITDA and explained the basis for such changes to our senior management and BofA Securities, noting that such changes were being principally driven by changes in their own projections based on favorable recovery trends from the pandemic disruptions. Our senior management and BofA Securities continued to discuss and evaluate such changes presented by Diamond, including forming their own independent views of the recovery trends and basis for such changes in the Diamond projections.

On November 15, 2020, Credit Suisse, on behalf of Diamond, delivered a non-binding proposal for a transaction whereby we would acquire Diamond for a consideration to be comprised of a combination of our common stock and $250.0 million of convertible notes with a 25% conversion premium. In exchange, assuming full conversion of the convertible notes, the former Diamond stockholders would own approximately 37% of our outstanding shares of common stock (having an equity value of approximately $1.22 billion). The shares of our common stock to be issued upfront would be equal to approximately 33% of our outstanding stock after the transaction (having an equity value of approximately $1.039 billion based on our stock’s volume weighed average price for a 2 week-period prior to the date of the offer), plus an additional 4% of our outstanding stock after the transaction (having an additional equity value of approximately $183.0 million) assuming full conversion of the convertible notes.

On November 17, 2020, Mr. Wang and Mr. Sambur spoke about the November 15 proposal and the November 10 forecast. Subsequently, on November 20, 2020, Mr. Wang received from Mr. Sambur certain supplemental information with respect to the November 10 forecast. Our senior management and BofA Securities continued to discuss and evaluate such changes, together with such additional information provided by Diamond, and continued to form and apply their own independent views for the basis of such changes and the supplemental information.

After further discussion with BofA Securities and internal discussions and evaluation, our senior management authorized BofA Securities to inform Apollo that we were not willing to proceed on the terms outlined in the November 15 offer and instead instructed BofA Securities to present, on November 30, 2020, a counteroffer to Apollo of a transaction whereby the former Diamond stockholders would own approximately 29% of our outstanding shares of common stock (having an equity value of approximately $975.0 million at the then-current market price), but with no convertible note feature. This counteroffer was reiterated by Mr. Wang directly to Mr. Sambur via telephone conversation on November 30.

On December 4, 2020, our senior management met again with Hilton’s senior management to present a revised license fee structure proposal with respect to the Diamond acquisition. Among other items, the proposal reflected the ramp-up fee structure over the initial five-year period following the closing of the transaction based on sales of new brand club membership and property revenues associated with Diamond properties that convert into HGV/Hilton licensed properties.

On December 6, 2020, we received from Credit Suisse, on behalf of Diamond, a counteroffer to our November 30 offer that reflected the former Diamond stockholders acquiring approximately a 33% interest in our company upon the closing of the transaction (having an equity value of approximately $1.20 billion at the then-current market price). Subsequently, on December 8, 2020, Mr. Wang spoke to Mr. Sambur about the latest counteroffer and indicated that we were unwilling to proceed or continue our discussions based on such valuation.

 

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On December 11, 2020, our senior management, Diamond’ senior management, and representatives from BofA Securities and Credit Suisse held a telephone meeting to discuss certain preliminary financing considerations in connection with a possible transaction, including scope and structure of potential financing alternatives.

On December 14, 2020, Credit Suisse, on behalf of Diamond, presented an updated version of its December 6 counteroffer that reflected the former Diamond stockholders acquiring approximately a 31% interest in our company (having an equity value of approximately $1.115 billion at the then-current market price). Apollo also proposed an alternative financing structure whereby all existing indebtedness of HGV and Diamond would remain outstanding after the transaction other than the redemption of our outstanding $300.0 million senior notes, for which the Apollo Funds would provide a backstop to eliminate our need for bridge financing. However, after diligence, we concluded that it would not be feasible nor desirable to have all of Diamond’s indebtedness remain outstanding after the transaction due to a number of reasons, including change in control and similar triggers, unfavorable pricing, and terms of such indebtedness. Apollo and Credit Suisse also provided an estimated timeline for completing all financial and legal due diligence and potential signing of a definitive agreement.

After evaluation and consultation with our advisors, including with BofA Securities, on December 15, 2020, our senior management responded to Apollo with a non-binding, “best and final” offer of an all-stock acquisition that would result in the former Diamond stockholders acquiring approximately a 29.7% interest in the combined company (reflecting an equity value of approximately $1.05 billion at the then-current market price) upon the closing of the transaction. Apollo preliminarily accepted the offer, subject to continued diligence by both parties. Afterwards, the parties agreed to accelerate their respective financial and legal diligence efforts and, subject to our board of directors’ concurrence, work towards a definitive agreement on an expedited basis.

On December 18, 2020, our senior management met with representatives of PJT Partners, a financial advisor that we had retained to assist us in exploring different financing alternatives, to discuss potential debt structures for the transaction. Subsequently, our senior management continued to explore various financing structures and alternatives for the transaction in parallel to our discussions with Apollo regarding our acquisition of Diamond.

On December 22, 2020, a special meeting was convened for our board of directors at which our senior management and representatives of BofA Securities updated the board on the recent discussions and negotiations with Apollo and Diamond that culminated with the non-binding offer on December 15. After consideration, our board of directors instructed management to continue exploring a possible transaction on the terms outlined in the December 15 proposal. BofA Securities summarized for our board of directors the process to date and the likely timeline leading to a definitive acquisition agreement. Both our senior management and BofA Securities also updated our board of directors on a detailed review of Diamond and the strategic and financial considerations of a transaction, as well as the diligence efforts expended to date and the expected expansion and acceleration of the overall timeline for completing all diligence. At the special meeting, Mr. Charles R. Corbin, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, reviewed with our board its fiduciary duties with regard to its evaluation of a possible acquisition transaction involving Diamond.

Starting on December 30, 2020, our senior management and other team members, BofA Securities, and our legal advisors, Alston & Bird LLP (“Alston & Bird”), Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (“Simpson Thacher”), and Foley & Lardner LLP (“Foley”), as well as our independent auditor and tax consultant, Ernst & Young LLP (“E&Y”), were provided access to Diamond’s electronic diligence data room, conducted a substantial amount of diligence, and engaged in a series of diligence conference calls with representatives from Apollo, Diamond, Credit Suisse, and Apollo’s and Diamond’s outside legal advisors, including Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison LLP (“Paul Weiss”).

Between December 30, 2020 and March 5, 2021, we and our financial, legal, and accounting and tax advisors held over forty separate due diligence calls with representatives of Apollo, Diamond, and their financial,

 

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legal, and accounting and tax advisors lasting up to several hours per call. During these calls, the parties discussed and covered a number of different areas of Diamond’s business and the Apollo Funds’ ownership in Diamond, including topics pertaining to treasury, inventory and rental activities, accounting and financial, resort operations and HOAs, sales and marketing, business operations, loan portfolio, IT infrastructure, call center and marketing, US and foreign tax, labor, employment and human resources, financial accounting, software, legal, consumer licensing and regulatory, securitization and debt capital, and property and development.

During a portion of the same period, Apollo’s principals, Diamond’s senior management, and their financial, legal and accounting and tax advisors conducted their own additional business and legal diligence of us and, between January 11, 2021 and February 9, 2021, they and we and our advisors held several “reverse” due diligence calls regarding our business.

Beginning in late December 2020, our senior management and our outside legal advisors began to prepare a draft merger agreement for the transaction contemplated by the December 15 proposal. The merger agreement included certain “private company” style adjustments to the purchase price, including adjustments for working capital, and an indemnification construct, and contemplated that we would purchase representations and warranties insurance. It also did not contain any type of restriction on our ability to solicit transactions involving an acquisition of HGV. Around the same time, our senior management and our outside legal advisors began to prepare a draft stockholders agreement, as well as a related overview of key governance topics (“governance overview”) to be addressed in the stockholders agreement, such as board and governance rights, transfer restrictions, standstill provisions, non-competition, and consent rights.

On January 6, 2021, BofA Securities, on our behalf, sent to representatives of Credit Suisse a draft governance overview.

On January 9, 2021, we and our legal advisors began to prepare a draft term sheet covering amendments to the existing Hilton license agreement and other arrangements that our senior management and senior management of Hilton had been discussing with respect to the license fee and related structure as part of the Diamond integration (such amendments to, or amended and restated, license agreement and other arrangements, the “Hilton agreements”).

Separately, on January 15, 2021, Simpson Thacher provided a draft of the merger agreement to Paul Weiss. During this time, all parties and their respective advisors continued to conduct business, legal and financial due diligence of the other party.

On January 20, 2021, Paul Weiss provided a draft governance rights term sheet with respect to the stockholders agreement in response to our January 6, 2021 governance overview. Among other items, the term sheet addressed board and governance rights, transfer restrictions, preemptive rights, registration rights, and consent rights, but did not include standstill or noncompetition provisions. All of these topics were the subject of numerous discussions and negotiations among the parties in the next several weeks.

On January 20, 2021, BofA Securities provided to us a proposal for a $2.3 billion of debt financing commitment for the transaction, which our senior management began to review and evaluate.

On January 21, 2021, our senior management and senior management of Hilton met in person to discuss and tentatively agreed to the final economic terms of the previously discussed ramp-up license fee structure for the integration of the Diamond properties.

On January 23, 2021, Paul Weiss provided to us comments to the draft merger agreement. In Paul Weiss’s draft, Apollo proposed a “public company” style agreement, with no adjustment to the purchase price for working capital, transaction expenses, debt or other liabilities at Diamond unlike the January 15 draft merger agreement that Simpson Thacher had provided. Also, Paul Weiss’s draft did not include an indemnity construct. These proposals were the subject of numerous discussions and negotiations among the parties in the coming weeks leading up to the signing of a definitive agreement.

 

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Our senior management, BofA Securities and our outside legal advisors engaged in a number of discussions and analysis regarding the key issues and positions of Apollo and their advisors as reflected in the January 23 comments to the merger agreement. Concurrently, our legal advisors continued to revise the draft merger agreement and prepare a draft stockholders agreement. During this time, we, our senior management, and our outside advisors continued to conduct various diligence of Diamond and Apollo.

At the same time, our senior management, together with BofA Securities and PJT Partners, continued to evaluate various debt financing alternatives and work towards securing necessary debt commitments for the transaction. In furtherance of such effort, on January 26, 2021, our senior management requested proposals from several financial institutions (Deutsche Bank, Barclays and Truist) for debt financing commitments for the transaction, to which we received preliminary term sheets and financing strategies from such parties on January 29, 2021. Throughout the rest of January 2021 and February 2021, our senior management held a number of discussions with such financial institutions and BofA Securities to discuss their respective financial proposals and financing structure.

On February 9, 2021, our senior management, representatives from Apollo and Diamond, Simpson Thacher, Alston & Bird, and Paul Weiss participated in a telephonic meeting to discuss key issues related to the draft merger agreement and the draft stockholders agreement. Afterwards, Paul Weiss provided to us, BofA Securities, and our legal advisors a summary of key outstanding issues under both agreements. Over the course of next two days, we and our advisors discussed those outstanding item and other aspects of the transaction.

On February 10, 2021, our board of directors convened a special meeting with our senior management, BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher in attendance. Mr. Corbin reviewed with our board of directors its fiduciary obligations and the need to maintain strict confidentiality. During the meeting, our senior management discussed the status of diligence, principal documents, negotiations, governance and Hilton discussions. BofA Securities overviewed the current state of affairs, financing, timing, and other considerations. Among other items, our senior management and advisors noted that, while the parties had made substantial progress overall, significant gaps remained on a number of important items in both the merger agreement and the stockholders agreement, including the “private company” vs. “public company” issue on the merger agreement and, with respect to the stockholders agreement, the number of board seats, memberships on board committees and related governance matters, transfer restrictions, expansive consent rights, voting requirements, standstill obligations, and noncompetition restrictions. Our senior management also updated our board of directors on its evaluation of debt financing alternatives and provided an overview of the preliminary proposals that we had received from the four financial institutions, and discussed the potential license fee structure for the Diamond business under our license agreement with Hilton, disclosure implications and potential timing. After consideration, our board of directors instructed management to continue to engage in discussions and negotiations with Apollo and its advisors to resolve these outstanding items in a manner that appropriately balanced the benefits of pursuing a transaction against prudence and protecting the company and its stockholders’ interests.

On February 10, 2021, after the special meeting, our senior management and Alston & Bird discussed updates to the draft term sheet for the Hilton agreements.

On February 11, 2021, our senior management, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher held a telephonic conference with Mr. Leonard A. Potter, the chairman of our board of directors, to discuss the outstanding key items related to the merger agreement, the stockholders agreement, and the timeline.

Shortly after that call, on the same day, Mr. Wang held a telephonic meeting with Mr. Sambur noting that the parties still had some significant gaps in certain key areas, including excluded liabilities, public company style merger, board and related governance rights, and consent rights over corporate and board actions. Mr. Wang also noted to Mr. Sambur that, while we were open to continuing to negotiate and discuss such items, it was critical from our board of directors’ and management’s perspective to continue to focus on our year-end

 

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matters, particularly given the number of significant gaps that remained on the parties’ negotiations. Separately, Simpson Thacher had a telephone conference with Paul Weiss to relay a similar view.

Later on February 11, 2021, Simpson Thacher received an updated issues list for both the merger and stockholders agreements from Paul Weiss on behalf of Apollo, while Mr. Wang received a similar document from Mr. Sambur, pursuant to which Apollo showed significant progress on a majority of the outstanding issues.

On February 12, 2021, our senior management met with Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher to discuss the latest progress from Apollo as reflected in the revised issues list that Paul Weiss had provided. Given the significant progress made, our legal advisors began to prepare updated drafts of the merger agreement and stockholders agreement. In addition, Alston & Bird began to prepare drafts of the Hilton agreements and updated the term sheet related to the Hilton agreements.

On February 19, 2021, Simpson Thacher provided an updated draft of the merger agreement and a draft of the stockholders agreement to Paul Weiss. The merger agreement included agreed on elements of both a “private company” style agreement (certain excluded liabilities that are not calculated in the purchase price and certain indemnities) and a “public company’ style agreement (a “locked box” purchase price calculation, where the purchase price is (a) adjusted downward for any “leakage” that occurs after the locked box date of December 31, 2020 and (b) not adjusted upwards for any increase in value that occurs after the locked box date). The merger agreement also included interim operating covenants for Diamond customary for a private company acquisition, limited interim operating covenants for HGV and additional closing conditions related to the warehouse facilities. The stockholders agreement reflected limited board, committee and related governance rights, significant transfer restrictions, significantly limited Apollo voting rights, customary standstill provisions, and certain noncompetition obligations.

Between February 22 and February 23, 2021, Paul Weiss provided comments to the merger agreement and the stockholders agreement to Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher. The merger agreement reflected closer alignment of the parties on provisions related to indemnification, interim operating covenants and other covenants. The draft reflected ongoing negotiations on open economic points related to repurchase obligations, financing, taxes and employees. The draft stockholders agreement also reflected progress that the parties had made on provisions pertaining to board and governance rights, transfer restrictions, voting rights, standstill provisions, and noncompetition restrictions, but the parties continued to have ongoing negotiations on some of the details related to those provisions.

On February 23, 2021, Diamond’s board of directors held a meeting with representatives of its management and Paul Weiss in attendance. At that meeting, representatives of Diamond’s management provided Diamond’s board of directors with a summary of Diamond’s recent financial performance. In addition, representatives of management updated Diamond’s board of directors on the progress and material economic terms of the potential transaction with HGV and reviewed with Diamond’s board of directors its fiduciary duties under applicable law in considering such potential transaction. The meeting concluded with representatives of management indicating that they would continue to keep the board informed of material updates and provide Diamond’s board of directors with further fulsome details of the material terms of a potential transaction with HGV at a later date.

Starting on February 23, 2021, both parties and their respective advisors commenced a daily status and update call to keep apprised of progress and any significant outstanding items.

In addition, commencing on February 23, 2021, we and Diamond (including our respective advisors) began to share certain preliminary and confidential external and internal communication plans in anticipation of a transaction announcement. Ultimately, these included the exchanges of draft press releases, internal employee and VOI owner communications, and related materials all the way up to the March 10 announcement.

On February 24, 2021, our senior management team met with its advisors, including BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher to discuss the revised drafts of the merger agreement and stockholders

 

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agreement and discuss next steps. Also on February 24, 2021, Alston & Bird held a telephonic meeting with Paul Weiss to discuss the revised draft of the stockholders agreement to provide feedback and obtain clarification regarding certain items.

Between February 24, and February 26, 2021, the parties discussed the comments on the merger agreement and stockholders agreement, and continued dialogue over excluded liabilities and transaction expenses, standstill, and transfer restrictions in the two principal documents. The parties continued to address gaps in the scope and calculation of excluded liabilities, including transaction expenses of Diamond, change of control payments of Diamond, taxes, and indebtedness items; antitrust divestiture threshold; termination fees; closing conditions related to warehouse financing and no securitization defaults; and transfer restrictions and standstill.

On February 25 and February 26, 2021, our senior management and senior management of Hilton discussed comments on the term sheet related to the Hilton agreements, and their comments on the merger agreement and stockholders agreement, including a request by Hilton to become a party to the stockholders agreement with a right to consent to any amendment or waiver thereto. The parties also discussed the Hilton consent and the timing of finalizing such consent and Hilton agreements within the overall timing for finalizing the merger agreement and the stockholders agreement.

On February 26, 2021, Alston & Bird sent a revised draft of the stockholders agreement to Paul Weiss while, on February 27, 2021, Simpson Thacher sent a revised draft of the merger agreement to Paul Weiss. Over the course of both days, our senior management and Alston & Bird continued to discuss with Hilton certain open points with respect to the term sheet for the Hilton agreements.

On February 27, 2021, our senior management selected three banks—BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank and Barclays—to provide the necessary debt financings for the transaction, and the parties, together with their respective counsels, began to prepare and negotiate the debt commitment documents.

Between February 27 and March 1, 2021, HGV, Apollo, Diamond and their respective legal advisors continued to conduct diligence and hold a number of calls to discuss key open issues on the principal documents. In addition, our senior management, Alston & Bird and Hilton continued to discuss the Hilton term sheet and Hilton’s comments to the stockholders agreement.

On February 28, 2021, we provided our initial draft of the disclosure schedules to Paul Weiss. We received initial comments on March 2, 2021 and Apollo, Diamond and their advisors continued to review and provide comments to us, and we continued to revise the disclosure schedules over the course of next approximately two weeks. During this time, we also reviewed and provide comments on multiple drafts of Diamond’s disclosure schedules.

On March 2, 2021, each of the three standing committees of our board of directors met for its respective regularly scheduled meeting. On March 2, 2021, at the Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee meeting, our senior management and Alston & Bird updated the members of the committee on the status of negotiation with Apollo related to board governance, transfer restrictions, standstill and other matters, including the qualifications of the Apollo designees to serve on the board of directors, and the committee’s evaluation process with respect to such designees.

On March 3, 2021, our board of directors held a meeting with representatives of our management, BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher in attendance. During that meeting, our board of directors discussed the business, financial and other aspects of the potential business combination with Diamond and the outcome of our management’s and our advisors’ due diligence review of Apollo and Diamond. In addition, a representative of Simpson Thacher reviewed and discussed the fiduciary duties applicable to our directors in connection with the proposed transaction and the terms of the draft merger agreement, and a representative of Alston & Bird reviewed and discussed the terms of the draft stockholders agreement with Apollo and the

 

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amended and restated license agreement with Hilton. In addition, our management and representatives of BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher provided updates on the status of negotiations with Apollo, Diamond and their advisors. Our board of directors discussed key remaining issues in the merger agreement, stockholders agreement and the Hilton agreements, including efforts required to obtain regulatory approvals, the scope and calculation of purchase price items, closing conditions related to Diamond’s warehouse facilities scheduled to roll over, covenants regarding HGV’s proxy statement and stockholder vote, indemnification for certain pre-closing taxes, the outside date to close the transaction, and the termination fee payable by HGV in the event that, among other situations, we or Diamond were to terminate the merger agreement under certain circumstances. BofA Securities presented to our board of directors its preliminary financial analyses of the merger consideration. Our board of directors also discussed certain management projections and forecasts for HGV and forecasts relating to anticipated synergies, and directed BofA Securities to use these management projections and forecasts, or subsets thereof, for their respective financial analyses. For further information regarding these management projections and forecasts, please see “The Merger—Certain Unaudited Prospective Financial Information” beginning on page 69 of this proxy statement. In addition, at the meeting, our senior management also provided an update to our board of directors on debt financing alternatives and negotiations with BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank and Barclays, and the terms of the likely committed financing package from such banks. Based on such presentations and discussions, our board of directors authorized our senior management and our advisors to continue to negotiate with Diamond towards a transaction.

On March 3, 2021, Paul Weiss provided comments to the merger agreement to Simpson Thacher. The merger agreement reflected closer alignment on efforts required to obtain regulatory approvals and other covenants and ongoing negotiations of the purchase price, repurchase obligations, financing, taxes and employee matters.

On March 4, 2021, our senior management team met with its advisors, including BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher to discuss the revised draft of the merger agreement.

Between March 4 and 5, 2021, Hilton provided additional comments to the stockholders agreement and Hilton consent. Among other items, Hilton continued to request that it be added as a party to the stockholders agreement for the purposes of approving any amendments or waivers thereto, but we and Alston & Bird discussed with Hilton that such right of approval should be limited only to certain key provisions thereof, including board and governance, transfer restrictions, required voting, and standstill provisions.

On March 5, Simpson Thacher sent a revised draft of merger agreement to Paul Weiss.

On March 5, 2021, our senior management, Alston & Bird and Hilton discussed several open matters on the draft term sheet related to the Hilton agreements. After resolving several of the remaining items, on March 6, 2021, Alston & Bird circulated draft Hilton agreements to Hilton. Alston & Bird also circulated a revised draft of the Hilton consent to Hilton.

On March 6, 2021, our senior management team met with its advisors, including BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher to discuss the remaining open items in the merger agreement.

On March 6, 2021, Alston & Bird, Hilton and Wilmer Hale LLP (“Wilmer”), Hilton’s counsel, had several telephonic meetings to discuss the draft stockholders agreement, the Hilton consent, and the Hilton agreements. Among several items discussed were standstill, noncompetition, and transfer restriction provisions. Alston & Bird and Paul Weiss also had several telephonic meetings to discuss the draft stockholders agreement and certain schedules and attachments thereto, and the Hilton consent.

On March 7, 2021, Paul Weiss provided comments to the merger agreement to Simpson Thacher and a spreadsheet of the calculation of transaction expenses, indebtedness and leakage and other dollar amounts to be borne by each party.

 

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On March 7, 2021, our senior management, Alston & Bird and Hilton had additional telephonic meetings to discuss the Hilton agreements. Alston & Bird and Hilton had separate telephonic meetings to continue their discussions on the draft stockholders agreement and the Hilton consent. Similarly, Alston & Bird and Paul Weiss had several additional telephonic meetings to discuss the draft stockholders agreement and certain schedules and attachments thereto, and the Hilton consent.

On March 7 and March 8, 2021, representatives from HGV, Apollo, Diamond, and their respective advisors continued to negotiate the purchase price items in the spreadsheet of transaction expenses, indebtedness and leakage. In addition, during the same period, Alston & Bird revised and recirculated draft stockholders agreement and related schedules and attachments thereto, the Hilton consent, and the Hilton agreements to each of Paul Weiss and Hilton.

On March 8, 2021, our senior management team met with its advisors, including BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher, to discuss remaining open items in the merger agreement and ongoing negotiations on purchase price items. Simpson Thacher sent a revised draft of the merger agreement and spreadsheet to Paul Weiss.

On March 8, 2021, our board of directors held a meeting with representatives of our management, BofA Securities, Alston & Bird and Simpson Thacher in attendance. At that meeting, our management and our advisors in attendance updated the board of directors on the status of negotiations with Apollo, Diamond and their advisors. BofA Securities made a presentation to our board of directors regarding the business, financial and other aspects of the potential business combination with Diamond and the outcome of management’s due diligence review of Diamond. Representatives of BofA Securities then rendered its oral fairness opinion, which was subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion from BofA Securities, dated March 9, 2021, to our board of directors to the effect that, as of the date of its written opinion and based upon and subject to the various assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered, and qualifications and limitations upon the review undertaken by BofA Securities in preparing its written opinion, as set forth in such opinion, the merger consideration to be paid by HGV in the proposed acquisition of Diamond pursuant to the merger agreement was fair, from a financial point of view, to HGV (see “—Opinion of our Financial Advisor” on page 59 of this proxy statement). Representatives of Simpson Thacher reviewed with our board of directors its fiduciary duties under applicable law and reviewed with our board of directors the negotiated terms of the merger agreement that was substantially complete, focusing on certain changes to the terms discussed at the meeting of our board of directors on March 3, 2021, such as the agreed on concept that would allow HGV’s board to change its recommendation in favor of the deal in response to an “Intervening Event” that occurs post-signing of the merger agreement and the calculation of transaction expenses. In addition, Alston & Bird reviewed with our board of directors the negotiated terms of the stockholders agreement that was substantially complete, focusing on a few items that remained subject to continuing discussions with Paul Weiss, as well as the substantially completed Hilton agreements. In addition, our management updated our board of directors that the committed financing package from BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank and Barclays was close to being finalized.

After such review and following further discussion with representatives of BofA Securities, Alston & Bird, and Simpson Thacher about potential reasons for and against the proposed merger (see below under the heading “ —Our Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” on page 55 of this proxy statement), our board of directors approved the proposed merger and the share issuance substantially on the terms presented to, and discussed by, the board of directors at the meeting and at the March 3 meeting, as well as the committed financing package, and authorized our management and our advisors to continue to negotiate and finalize the terms of the merger agreement, the stockholders agreement, the Hilton consent, the Hilton agreements, debt financing documents, and to execute and deliver the merger agreement, substantially in the form provided to the board of directors in advance of the meeting, with such changes as the authorized officers deemed necessary, desirable or advisable, as well as any ancillary agreements or items to be provided in connection with the signing of the merger agreement. In approving the debt financing arrangement with BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank and Barclays, including in connection with considering such arrangement at prior

 

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meetings, our board of directors was aware of BofA Securities’ role as our financial advisor in the merger, BofA Securities affiliates’ prior and existing banking relationship with HGV, and its participation in the debt financing arrangements for the merger transaction.

On March 8, 2021, Diamond’s board of directors held a meeting with representatives of its management and Paul Weiss in attendance. At that meeting, representatives of Paul Weiss updated Diamond’s board of directors on the status of negotiations with HGV and its advisors and representatives of Credit Suisse provided an overview to Diamond’s board of directors of the transaction and economic terms. Representatives of Paul Weiss reviewed with Diamond’s board of directors its fiduciary duties under applicable law in considering a potential transaction with HGV and the negotiated terms of the merger agreement that was substantially complete and the limited number of open items that remained subject to continuing discussions with HGV’s advisors, particularly as it related to the calculation of transaction expenses, indebtedness and leakage and other dollar amounts to be borne by each party. The meeting concluded with representatives of Paul Weiss indicating that they would update Diamond’s board of directors upon finalization of the open items for their final approval.

Throughout March 8 and March 9, 2021, representatives of HGV, Simpson Thacher, Apollo, Diamond, and Paul Weiss continued to finalize the terms of the merger agreement, including the dollar amount of the termination fees payable in certain situations by us to Diamond and the interim operating covenants of Diamond and HGV. In addition, representatives of HGV, Alston & Bird, Paul Weiss, Hilton and Wilmer continued to finalize the terms of the stockholders agreement, Hilton consent and the Hilton agreements.

On March 9 and early March 10, 2021, we and BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank and Barclays finalized and entered into commitment arrangements for such banks to provide to us an aggregate of $2.8 billion of debt financing to financing the acquisition of Diamond and the related transactions. In addition, HGV, Apollo, Diamond, Simpson Thacher and Paul, Weiss finalized the terms of the merger agreement while HGV, Apollo, Alston & Bird, and Paul Weiss finalized the form of the stockholders agreements, other ancillary documents, and the Hilton consent. Further, contemporaneously, HGV, Alston & Bird, Hilton and Wilmer finalized the Hilton consent and the Hilton agreements.

During the early morning on March 10, 2021, representatives of Paul Weiss provided Diamond’s board of directors with an update on the status of the discussions with HGV’s advisors and a summary of the material changes to the merger agreement since Diamond’s board of directors last convened. Diamond’s board of directors proceeded to approve the merger agreement and each of the transactions contemplated thereby, including the merger, by unanimous written consent.

Later in the early morning of March 10, 2021, we, HGV Borrower, Diamond, the Apollo Investors, and the other Diamond stockholders executed and delivered the merger agreement. Simultaneously with the execution of the merger agreement, Hilton delivered to us the Hilton consent, and we and Hilton entered into the Hilton agreements.

On the morning of March 10, 2021, prior to the opening of trading on the NYSE, we, Diamond and Apollo issued a joint press release announcing the execution of the merger agreement.

Subsequent to the announcement, on April 8, 2021, we determined that the Net Synergy/Cost Savings (as defined below under “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement) estimates should have assumed only the synergies that would be achieved subsequent to the anticipated closing of the transaction of July 1, 2021, rather than a January 1, 2021 closing that was assumed in the initial Net Synergy/Cost Savings estimates used by BofA Securities in connection with its fairness opinion on March 9, 2021. This adjustment changed our estimate of the realized Net Synergies/Cost Savings for calendar year 2021 to $25 million from the prior $59 million assumed in the initial fairness opinion. Consequently, (i) BofA Securities’ discounted cash flow analysis using the original Net Synergy/Cost Savings estimates, as described below under “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement, resulted in a range of

 

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implied equity value for Diamond of $1,260 million to $1,950 million instead of $1,230 million to $1,930 million, and (ii) BofA Securities’ pro forma relative ownership analysis based on discounted cash flow using the original Net Synergy/Cost Savings estimates, as described below under “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement, resulted in a range of pro forma ownership by Diamond’s stockholder of the combined company of 22.2% to 38.6% instead of 21.8% to 38.4%. On April 9, 2021, BofA Securities confirmed to our board of directors in writing that had BofA Securities issued its opinion on the basis of the actual Net Synergies/Cost Savings, there would have been no change to the conclusion set forth in its March 9, 2021 opinion.

Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation of Our Board of Directors

After careful consideration, our board of directors, at a meeting held on March 8, 2021, unanimously determined that the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in connection with the merger, and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of HGV and its stockholders. As such, our board of directors authorized and approved the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated thereby by a unanimous vote of its directors, and adopted resolutions directing that the stock issuance proposal be submitted to our stockholders for their consideration. Accordingly, our board of directors unanimously recommends that HGV stockholders vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal.

HGV’s board of directors considered many reasons in making its decision to approve the merger agreement and the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated thereby and in making its recommendation to the HGV stockholders that they approve the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger. In arriving at its decision, our board of directors consulted with our senior management, legal advisors, financial advisors and other advisors, reviewed a significant amount of information, and concluded in its business judgment that the proposed merger is likely to result in significant strategic and financial benefits to HGV and its stockholders, including the following anticipated benefits (which are not exclusive or listed in any relative order of importance):

Potentially Positive Considerations

 

   

Combining HGV and Diamond would create a leading vacation ownership company with locations in key destinations and create a more globally diversified company, with increased scale, geographic presence, diversity of revenue streams and product offerings, particularly as the travel and leisure industry continues its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic;

 

   

HGV and Diamond have historically focused on different customer pools, and acquiring Diamond will allow HGV to dramatically expand its potential customer base;

 

   

The expectation that HGV would achieve a minimum of $125 million of targeted annual cost synergies by leveraging operational and general and administrative cost efficiencies;

 

   

The expectation that the merger will increase recurring EBITDA streams and drive overall cash flow, with adjusted free cash flow per share accretion in year one (excluding one-time transaction-related expenses);

 

   

The expectation that adding a new brand within HGV as part of the Diamond integration represents a strong strategic fit in conjunction with Hilton generated opportunities and enhances our ability to capitalize on leads and tours sourced from Hilton;

 

   

The expectation that adding the Hilton Vacations Club Brand to the Diamond portfolio of resorts will add significant credibility and enhance the value of the Diamond portfolio and existing owners within the existing Diamond business;

 

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The expectation that the merger will accelerate the launch of a HGV-branded trust product offering by rebranding Diamond’s trust, Club, and properties to drive further revenue growth in a new customer segment

 

   

The expectation that the free cash flow from the combined businesses after the merger would be strong and allow for us to advance further growth prospects, enhance stockholder returns and/or repay debt;

 

   

The expectation of sales growth with respect to Diamond’s vacation ownership business and properties, and potential for further improvement when combined with opportunities provided by our agreements with Hilton;

 

   

The fact that Hilton has provided its irrevocable consent as required under the Hilton license agreement (subject to certain limited conditions), and we and Hilton have entered into the A&R license agreement and other arrangements that will facilitate our integration of Diamond’s business and properties, as more fully described in “Other Agreements—Hilton Agreements and Consent” beginning on page 106 of this proxy statement;

 

   

The fact that because the number of shares of our common stock to be issued under the merger agreement is fixed (with certain adjustments) and will not be adjusted for fluctuations in the market price of shares of our common stock, we have greater certainty as to the number of shares of our common stock to be issued in the merger;

 

   

Based on our outstanding shares as of • , 2021, our stockholders would own approximately 72% of the combined company on a fully diluted basis immediately following the closing of the merger and, therefore, will continue to participate in potential appreciation in equity value of the combined company;

 

   

The continuity of our board of directors and their familiarity with, and understanding of, our company and the timeshare industry, as augmented by the expected addition of two members designated by Apollo, which will only add to our board of directors’ understanding and knowledge of Diamond and add additional experience with the timeshare industry;

 

   

The oral opinion of BofA Securities to our board of directors on March 8, 2021, and the written opinion of BofA Securities to our board of directors, dated March 9, 2021, and related financial analysis presented by BofA Securities to our board of directors on such dates, to the effect that, as of the date of the written opinion and based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth in such opinion, the merger consideration in the proposed merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to us. A copy of that written opinion is included as Annex B to this proxy statement and described under “—Opinion of our Financial Advisor,” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement;

 

   

The belief of our board of directors, following consultation with our senior management, and based in part upon the debt financing commitments that we obtained, that it was likely that we would be able to obtain the necessary financing to refinance our debt and existing Diamond indebtedness, if necessary, and that after the completion of the merger, HGV would be able to repay and service any indebtedness that is expected to form the interim or permanent financing of the merger and, with respect to such indebtedness, to comply with the financial covenants applicable to such indebtedness, after its review and discussion of various factors, including the expected terms of the proposed interim and permanent financing for the merger (including fees and interest);

 

   

The fact that Diamond’s remedy in the event we are not able to obtain the proceeds of our committed debt financing in connection with the merger could be limited to a reverse termination fee of $73.5 million;

 

   

The terms and conditions of the merger agreement reflect our and Diamond’s commitment to closing;

 

   

The ability of our board of directors, under certain circumstances, to make a change in their recommendation of the merger agreement in response to certain intervening events favorable to us;

 

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The fact that the merger is subject to approval by the holders of a majority of the shares of HGV common stock, and that stockholders have the ability to reject the merger;

 

   

We purchased a representation and warranty insurance policy in connection with Diamond’s representations and warranties in the merger agreement and obtained certain indemnities from the Apollo Investors, which protects us against certain downside risk;

 

   

The terms of the transaction were heavily negotiated over the course of a long period of discussions with an Apollo affiliate, and the Apollo affiliate agreed to price and post-closing recourse terms that our board of directors thought were attractive;

 

   

The fact that Apollo is a sophisticated investor and Apollo’s willingness to have the Apollo Funds invest in the combined company by taking stock consideration, which our board of directors viewed as validation of the combined company’s prospects;

 

   

Apollo agreed to certain company favorable governance terms under the stockholders agreement, including (a) limited approval rights and (b) a standstill and our ability to adopt a poison pill that would prevent the Apollo Funds from acquiring control of the combined company without negotiating with the full board of directors of the combined company;

 

   

Our ability, under certain circumstances as set out in the merger agreement, to engage in discussions with a third party that was interested in acquiring HGV or the combined company;

 

   

Apollo agreed to certain restrictions in the stockholders agreement on the manner and timing of the Apollo Funds’ ability to exit HGV stock, and such restrictions could be favorable to our stockholders; and

 

   

The merger agreement includes a condition that we will not be obligated to close the merger if a material adverse effect on Diamond has occurred and is continuing.

Potentially Negative Considerations

In the course of its deliberations, our board of directors also considered a variety of uncertainties, risks and other potentially negative considerations relevant to the transaction, including the following (which are not exclusive or listed in any relative order of importance):

 

   

The restrictions on the conduct of our business during the period between the execution of the merger agreement and the completion of the merger;

 

   

The costs associated with completing the merger and realizing the benefits we expect to obtain in connection with the merger, including management’s time and energy and potential opportunity cost;

 

   

The challenges in absorbing the effect of any failure to complete the merger, including potential termination fees and stockholder and market reactions;

 

   

The potential earnings dilution to our stockholders following the closing of the merger if synergies are not achieved;

 

   

Our stockholders, who currently own all of the equity interests in HGV, will own approximately 72% of the equity interest in the combined company;

 

   

The challenges inherent in combining two businesses of the size and complexity of HGV and Diamond, including the possible diversion of management and employee attention for an extended period of time;

 

   

The potential for diversion of management and employee attention during the period before completion of the merger, and the potential negative effects on our and our combined company’s business;

 

   

The extent to which our increased leverage could result in restrictions on our uses of cash, which could cause us to reduce capital expenditures, limit financing offered to customers (which could result in

 

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reduced sales) and dedicate an unsustainable level of its cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on its indebtedness;

 

   

The risk that certain provisions in certain of our and Diamond’s contracts may constrain or delay the timing for realizing, operational and development plans, synergies, cost savings and other anticipated benefits expected to result from a combination of us and Diamond;

 

   

The risk that regulatory agencies may object to and challenge the merger or may impose terms and conditions in order to resolve those objections that adversely affect our financial results on a combined basis; see the section entitled “—Regulatory Clearances Required for the Merger” beginning on page 76 of this proxy statement;

 

   

Hilton’s right to terminate or take other actions with respect to the A&R license agreement with us following the consummation of the merger if we fail to comply with its terms as we integrate the Diamond business;

 

   

Hilton’s ability to revoke its consent of the merger in the event that the merger agreement is materially amended or the final form of the stockholders agreement is modified between the date of the merger agreement and the closing;

 

   

The absence of a financing condition in the merger agreement and Diamond’s ability to terminate the agreement and seek payment of a termination fee in the event we are not able to obtain the proceeds of our committed debt financing in connection with the merger;

 

   

The potential that the fixed exchange ratio under the merger agreement could result in us delivering greater value to Diamond stockholders than had been anticipated by HGV should the value of the shares of our common stock increase from the date of the execution of the merger agreement;

 

   

The risk that the travel and leisure industry will not recover as quickly or as much as we expect or would hope from the COVID-19 pandemic, or that the pandemic will continue to cause significant disruptions and adverse effect on our business, Diamond’s business, the travel and leisure industry, and the global economy in general, making it very difficult for us to achieve positive benefits from the merger;

 

   

The risk of significant decline in value of Diamond’s business during the period between signing and closing;

 

   

The risk that the Apollo Funds exit the stock of the combined company which could drive down the share price of the stock of the combined company;

 

   

The risk that adding two members to the board of directors of the combined company could alter the dynamics of the board of directors in unproductive ways;

 

   

The risk that Diamond employees may not successfully integrate into our culture;

 

   

The risk that our existing customers may not accept or use the Diamond properties as part of our overall network of properties after the integration;

 

   

The risk that an Apollo affiliate may end up competing with the combined company through other investments;

 

   

The risk that our stockholders will be diluted in the short term before expected synergies are achieved; and

 

   

Acquirors often face a decline in their stock price immediately post-announcement.

Further, our board of directors considered that some members of our board of directors and certain executive officers may have interests in the proposed merger as individuals that are in addition to, and that may be different from, the interest of our stockholders generally, as described under “—Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger” beginning on page 73 of this proxy statement.

 

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After considering the factors described above, our board of directors unanimously concluded that the potentially positive reasons relating to the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the issuance of shares of our common stock to Diamond stockholders, outweighed the potentially negative reasons.

The foregoing discussion of the information and reasons considered by our board of directors is not exhaustive but is intended to reflect the material reasons considered by our board of directors in its evaluation of the merger. In view of the complexity, and the large number, of the reasons considered, our board of directors, both individually and collectively, did not find it practicable to, and did not attempt to, quantify or assign any relative or specific weight to the various reasons. Rather, our board of directors based its recommendation on the totality of the information presented to and considered by it. In addition, individual members of our board of directors may have given different weight to different reasons.

The foregoing discussion of the information and reasons considered by our board of directors is forward-looking in nature. This information should be read in light of the reasons described under “Risk Factors” beginning on page 22 of this proxy statement and “Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements” beginning on page 35 of this proxy statement.

Opinion of Our Financial Advisor

HGV has retained BofA Securities to act as HGV’s financial advisor in connection with the merger. BofA Securities is an internationally recognized investment banking firm which is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses and securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes. As previously noted, HGV selected BofA Securities to act as its financial advisor in connection with the merger on the basis of BofA Securities’ experience in transactions similar to the merger, its reputation in the investment community, and its familiarity with HGV, Diamond, and their respective businesses, and its significant hospitality, gaming and real estate M&A and capital markets experience.

On March 8, 2021, at a meeting of HGV’s board of directors held to evaluate the merger, BofA Securities delivered to HGV’s board of directors an oral opinion, which was confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated March 9, 2021, to the effect that, as of such date and based on and subject to various assumptions and limitations described in its opinion, the merger consideration was fair, from a financial point of view, to HGV.

On April 8, 2021, HGV notified BofA Securities that the Net Synergies/Cost Savings (as defined below) used by BofA Securities in connection with its fairness opinion should have assumed only the synergies that would be achieved subsequent to the anticipated closing of the transaction of July 1, 2021, rather than a January 1, 2021 closing. Specifically, the estimated cost savings for fiscal year 2021 should have been stated as $25 million rather than $59 million as reflected in the Net Synergies/Cost Savings. Consequently, (i) BofA Securities’ discounted cash flow analysis using the original Net Synergy/Cost Savings estimates, as described below, resulted in a range of implied equity value for Diamond of $1,260 million to $1,950 million instead of $1,230 million to $1,930 million, and (ii) BofA Securities’ pro forma relative ownership analysis based on discounted cash flow using the original Net Synergy/Cost Savings estimates, as described below, resulted in a range of pro forma ownership by Diamond’s shareholders of the combined company of 22.2% to 38.6% instead of 21.8% to 38.4%. On April 9, 2021, BofA Securities confirmed in writing to HGV’s board of directors that had BofA Securities issued its opinion on the basis of the actual Net Synergies/Cost Savings, there would have been no change to the conclusion set forth in such opinion.

The full text of the written opinion of BofA Securities to the HGV board of directors, which sets forth, among other things, the various assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and qualifications and limitations on the scope of the review undertaken by BofA Securities in rendering its opinion, is attached as Annex B to this proxy statement and is incorporated by reference herein in its

 

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entirety. The following summary of BofA Securities’ opinion is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the written opinion. BofA Securities delivered its opinion to the HGV board of directors for the benefit and use of the HGV board of directors (in its capacity as such) in connection with and for purposes of its evaluation of the merger consideration provided for in the merger from a financial point of view. BofA Securities’ opinion does not address any terms or other aspects or implications of the merger and no opinion or view was expressed as to the relative merits of the merger in comparison to other strategies or transactions that might be available to HGV or any of its affiliates or in which HGV or any of its affiliates might engage or as to the underlying business decision of HGV to proceed with or effect the merger. BofA Securities’ opinion does not address any other aspect or implication of the merger and does not constitute a recommendation to any shareholder as to how to vote or act in connection with the stock issuance proposal or any related matter.

In connection with rendering its opinion, BofA Securities, among other things:

 

  (a)

reviewed certain publicly available business and financial information relating to Diamond and HGV;

 

  (b)

reviewed certain internal financial and operating information with respect to the business, operations and prospects of Diamond furnished to or discussed with BofA Securities by the management of Diamond, including certain financial forecasts relating to Diamond prepared by the management of Diamond (such forecasts, the “Diamond Forecasts”);

 

  (c)

reviewed an alternative version of the Diamond Forecasts incorporating certain adjustments thereto made by the management of HGV (the “Adjusted Diamond Forecasts”) and discussed with the management of HGV its assessments as to the relative likelihood of achieving the future financial results reflected in the Diamond Forecasts and the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts;

 

  (d)

reviewed certain internal financial and operating information with respect to the business, operations and prospects of HGV furnished to or discussed with BofA Securities by the management of HGV, including certain financial forecasts relating to HGV prepared by the management of HGV (such forecasts, the “HGV Forecasts”);

 

  (e)

reviewed certain estimates as to the amount and timing of cost savings and revenue enhancements, inclusive of the costs and timing to implement such cost savings and revenue enhancements (collectively, the “Net Synergies/Cost Savings”) anticipated by the management of HGV to result from the merger;

 

  (f)

discussed the past and current business, operations, financial condition and prospects of Diamond with members of senior managements of Diamond and HGV, and discussed the past and current business, operations, financial condition and prospects of HGV with members of senior management of HGV;

 

  (g)

discussed with the management of HGV its assessments as to Diamond’s existing and future relationships, agreements and arrangements with, and HGV’s ability to retain, key customers and employees of Diamond;

 

  (h)

reviewed the potential pro forma financial impact of the merger on the future financial performance of HGV, including the potential effect on HGV’s estimated adjusted free cash flow;

 

  (i)

reviewed the trading history for our common stock and a comparison of such trading history with the trading histories of other companies BofA Securities deemed relevant;

 

  (j)

compared certain financial information of Diamond and certain financial and stock market information of HGV with similar information of other companies BofA Securities deemed relevant;

 

  (k)

compared certain financial terms of the merger to financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of other transactions BofA Securities deemed relevant;

 

  (l)

reviewed the relative financial contributions of Diamond and HGV to the future financial performance of the combined company on a pro forma basis;

 

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  (m)

reviewed a draft, dated March 7, 2021, of the Agreement (the “Draft Agreement”); and

 

  (n)

performed such other analyses and studies and considered such other information and factors as BofA Securities deemed appropriate.

In arriving at its opinion, BofA Securities assumed and relied upon, without independent verification, the accuracy and completeness of the financial and other information and data publicly available or provided to or otherwise reviewed by or discussed with BofA Securities and BofA Securities relied upon the assurances of the managements of HGV and Diamond that they were not aware of any facts or circumstances that would make such information or data inaccurate or misleading in any material respect. With respect to the Diamond Forecasts, BofA Securities were advised by Diamond, and BofA Securities assumed with the consent of HGV, that they were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best available estimates and good faith judgments of the management of Diamond as to the future financial performance of Diamond. With respect to the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts, the HGV Forecasts and the Net Synergies/Cost Savings, BofA Securities assumed, at the direction of HGV, that they were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best available estimates and good faith judgments of the management of HGV as to the future financial performance of Diamond and HGV and the other matters covered thereby and, based on the assessments of the management of HGV as to the relative likelihood of achieving the future financial results reflected in the Diamond Forecasts and the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts, BofA Securities relied, at the direction of HGV, on the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts for purposes of its opinion. BofA Securities relied, at the direction of HGV, on the assessments of the management of HGV as to HGV’s ability to achieve the Net Synergies/Cost Savings and were advised by HGV, and assumed, that the Net Synergies/Cost Savings will be realized in the amounts and at the times projected. BofA Securities did not make, nor were they provided with, any independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities (contingent or otherwise) of Diamond or HGV, nor did BofA Securities make any physical inspection of the properties or assets of Diamond or HGV. BofA Securities did not evaluate the solvency or fair value of Diamond or HGV under any state, federal or other laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. BofA Securities assumed, at the direction of HGV, that the merger will be consummated in accordance with its terms, without waiver, modification or amendment of any material term, condition or agreement and that, in the course of obtaining the necessary governmental, regulatory and other approvals, consents, releases and waivers for the merger, no delay, limitation, restriction or condition, including any divestiture requirements or amendments or modifications, will be imposed that would have an adverse effect on Diamond, HGV or the contemplated benefits of the merger. BofA Securities also assumed, at the direction of HGV, that the merger will qualify for federal income tax purposes as a reorganization under the provisions of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. BofA Securities also assumed, at the direction of HGV, that the final executed merger agreement did not differ in any material respect from the Draft Agreement reviewed by BofA Securities.

BofA Securities expressed no view or opinion as to any terms or other aspects or implications of the merger (other than the merger consideration to the extent expressly specified in its opinion), including, without limitation, the form or structure of the merger, any adjustments to the merger consideration, or any terms, aspects or implications of any other agreement, arrangement or understanding entered into in connection with or related to the merger or otherwise. BofA Securities’ opinion was limited to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to HGV of the merger consideration provided for in the merger and no opinion or view was expressed with respect to any consideration received in connection with the merger by the holders of any class of securities, creditors or other constituencies of any party. In addition, no opinion or view was expressed with respect to the fairness (financial or otherwise) of the amount, nature or any other aspect of any compensation to any of the officers, directors or employees of any party to the merger, or class of such persons, relative to the merger consideration. Furthermore, no opinion or view was expressed as to the relative merits of the merger in comparison to other strategies or transactions that might be available to HGV or in which HGV might engage or as to the underlying business decision of HGV to proceed with or effect the merger. BofA Securities also did not express any view or opinion with respect to, and BofA Securities relied, at the direction of HGV, upon the assessments of representatives of HGV regarding, legal, regulatory, accounting, tax and similar matters relating to Diamond, HGV or the merger, as to which matters BofA Securities understood that HGV obtained such advice

 

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as it deemed necessary from qualified professionals. BofA Securities did not express any opinion as to what the value of our common stock actually will be when issued or the prices at which our common stock will trade at any time, including following announcement or consummation of the merger. In addition, BofA Securities expressed no opinion or recommendation as to how any holder of shares of our common stock should vote or act in connection with the stock issuance proposal or any related matter.

BofA Securities’ opinion was necessarily based on financial, economic, monetary, market and other conditions and circumstances as in effect on, and the information made available to BofA Securities as of, the date of its opinion. BofA Securities noted that the credit, financial and stock markets have been experiencing unusual volatility and BofA Securities expressed no opinion or view as to any potential effects of such volatility on HGV, Diamond, or the merger. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect its opinion, and BofA Securities does not have any obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its opinion. The issuance of BofA Securities’ opinion was approved by a fairness opinion review committee of BofA Securities.

The discussions set forth below in the sections entitled “—Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses,” “—Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses” and “—Summary of Material Relative Financial Analyses” represent a brief summary of the material financial analyses presented by BofA Securities to HGV’s board of directors in connection with its opinion. The financial analyses summarized below include information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand the financial analyses performed by BofA Securities, the tables must be read together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not constitute a complete description of the financial analyses performed by BofA Securities. Considering the data set forth in the tables below without considering the full narrative description of the financial analyses, including the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the financial analyses performed by BofA Securities.

Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses

Selected Publicly Traded Companies Analysis. BofA Securities reviewed publicly available financial and stock market information for Diamond and four publicly traded companies in the timeshare industry. BofA Securities reviewed, among other things, enterprise values of the selected publicly traded companies, calculated as equity values based on closing stock prices on March 5, 2021, plus debt, plus preferred stock, plus minority interest, and less cash and cash equivalents, as a multiple of calendar year 2019 and estimated calendar year 2022 (which years were selected by BofA Securities in an effort to analyze financial characteristics of Diamond unaffected by COVID-19) earnings before interest, taxes, depreciations and amortization, unburdened for net construction deferrals, non-operating gains, share-based compensation expenses and one-time, non-recurring expenses including impairment expenses, which is consistent with the management of HGV’s methodology and which is referred to herein as Adj. EBITDA. The mean and median enterprise value / calendar year 2019 Adj. EBITDA multiple observed for the selected publicly traded companies were 9.4x and 9.0x, respectively, and the mean and median enterprise value / estimated calendar year 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiple for the selected publicly traded companies were 9.5x and 9.2x, respectively. The selected publicly traded companies and their respective multiples are as follows:

 

Selected Publicly Traded Companies

   Enterprise Value /
Adj. EBITDA
 
   2019A      2022E  

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation

     13.1x        11.2x  

Travel + Leisure Co.

     8.6x        9.1x  

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.

     9.4x        9.4x  

Bluegreen Corporation

     6.6x        8.2x  

The overall low to high calendar year 2019 and 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiples observed for selected publicly traded companies were 6.6x to 13.1x (with an average of 9.4x and a median of 9.0x) and 8.2x to 11.2x (with an

 

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average of 9.5x and a median of 9.2x), respectively. Estimated financial data of the selected publicly traded companies were based on publicly available research analysts’ estimates, and estimated financial data of Diamond were based on the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts.

Based on the financial characteristics of the selected publicly traded companies and Diamond, and based on its professional judgment and experience, BofA Securities applied calendar year 2019 and 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiples of 6.5x to 8.0x, derived from the selected publicly traded companies, to Diamond’s calendar year 2019 and 2022 estimated Adj. EBITDA of $304 million and $324 million, respectively, as set forth in the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts, to calculate ranges of implied enterprise values for Diamond. BofA Securities then calculated implied base equity value reference ranges by deducting estimated net debt of Diamond of $1,622 million as of December 31, 2020, as provided by Diamond’s management, from such equity values. BofA Securities then calculated implied equity value reference ranges for Diamond inclusive of estimated synergies by adding to each of the base equity value reference ranges the product of assumed annual net synergies of $120 million (the “Run-Rate Synergies”), based on the Net Synergies/Cost Savings, and the same multiple ranges of 6.5x to 8.0x.

This analysis indicated the following approximate implied base equity value ranges and equity value ranges inclusive of synergies for Diamond, as compared to the equity value of Diamond implied by the merger consideration, calculated based on HGV’s closing stock price as of March 5, 2021:

 

     Implied Equity Value Range for Diamond    Equity Value for Diamond
Implied by Parent Stock
Issuance Amount
 
     2019A    2022E

Base Valuation

   $360mm - $810mm    $490mm - $970mm   

Synergies

   $780mm - $960mm    $780mm - $960mm   

Synergies-Inclusive Valuation

   $1,140mm - $1,770mm    $1,270mm - $1,930mm    $ 1,479mm  

No company used in this analysis is identical or directly comparable to Diamond. Accordingly, an evaluation of the results of this analysis is not entirely mathematical. Rather, this analysis involves complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the public trading or other values of the companies to which Diamond was compared.

Selected Precedent Transactions Analysis. BofA Securities reviewed, to the extent publicly available, financial information relating to eight selected transactions involving companies in the timeshare industry. BofA Securities reviewed transaction values, calculated as the enterprise value implied for the target company based on the consideration payable in the selected transaction, as a multiple of the target company’s estimated Adj. EBITDA/revenue. The selected transactions and their respective multiples are as follows:

 

Acquiror

  

Target

  

Enterprise Value/Adj. EBITDA

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation    Welk Resort Group, Inc.    14.8x
KSL Capital Partners LLC    Orange Lake Resorts    ~9.0x
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation    ILG, Inc.    13.2x
Funds affiliated with Apollo Global Management LLC    Diamond Resorts International    7.7x
Diamond Resorts International    Intrawest Resorts Holdings, Inc    10.8x
Interval Leisure Group, Inc.    Vistana Signature Experiences, Inc.    10.5x
Diamond Resorts International    Gold Key Resorts LLC    6.0x
Orange Lake Country Club, Inc.    Silverleaf Resorts, Inc.    8.4x

 

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The overall low to high multiples of enterprise value to the target companies’ Adj. EBITDA for the selected transactions were 6.0x to 14.8x (with a median of 9.7x). Estimated financial data of the selected transactions were based on publicly available information. Estimated financial data of Diamond were based on the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts.

BofA Securities then applied enterprise value/Adj. EBITDA multiples of 7.0x to 13.0x, derived from the selected transactions and based on its professional experience and judgment, to Diamond’s calendar year 2019 and estimated calendar year 2022 (which years were selected by BofA Securities in an effort to analyze financial characteristics of Diamond unaffected by COVID-19) Adj. EBITDA, to calculate ranges of implied enterprise values for Diamond. BofA Securities then calculated implied base equity value reference ranges by deducting estimated net debt of Diamond of $1,622 million as of December 31, 2020, as provided by Diamond’s management, from such equity values. In applying the calendar year 2019 and 2022 multiples, BofA Securities took into consideration, among other things, the observed data for the selected publicly traded companies and for Diamond, the common stocks of the selected publicly traded companies and the differences in the financial profiles of Diamond and the selected publicly traded companies.

This analysis indicated the following approximate implied equity value ranges for Diamond, as compared to the implied equity value of Diamond by the merger consideration, calculated based on HGV’s closing stock price as of March 5, 2021:

 

Implied Equity Value Range for Diamond

  

Equity Value for Diamond Implied by
Merger Consideration

2019A

  

2022E

$510mm - $2,340mm

   $650mm - $2,590mm    $1,479mm

No company, business or transaction used in this analysis is identical or directly comparable to Diamond or the merger. Accordingly, an evaluation of the results of this analysis is not entirely mathematical. Rather, this analysis involves complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the acquisition or other values of the companies, business segments or transactions to which Diamond and the merger were compared.

Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. BofA Securities performed a discounted cash flow analysis of Diamond to calculate the estimated present value of the standalone unlevered, after-tax free cash flows that Diamond was forecasted to generate during calendar years 2021 through 2025 based on the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts. BofA Securities calculated terminal values for Diamond by applying terminal forward multiples of 6.0x to 7.5x to Diamond’s calendar year 2026 estimated Adj. EBITDA. The cash flows and terminal values were then discounted to present value as of March 5, 2021 using discount rates ranging from 9.50% to 11.50%, which were based on an estimate of Diamond’s weighted average cost of capital. From the resulting enterprise values, BofA Securities deducted estimated net debt of Diamond as of December 31, 2020 of $1,622 million, as provided by Diamond’s management, to derive implied base equity value reference ranges.

BofA Securities then calculated the unlevered, after tax free cash flows projected to result from the net cost savings and revenue synergies for calendar years 2021 through 2025 based on the Net Synergies/Cost Savings, as well as terminal values for such net cost savings and revenue synergies by applying terminal forward multiples of 6.0x to 7.5x to calendar year 2026 estimated net cost savings and revenue synergies based on the Net Synergies/Cost Savings. The cash flows and terminal values were then discounted to present value as of March 5, 2021 using discount rates ranging from 9.50% to 11.50%, which were based on an estimate of Diamond’s weighted average cost of capital to arrive at an estimated present value of such net cost savings and revenue synergies.

 

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This analysis indicated the following approximate implied base equity value ranges and equity value ranges inclusive of synergies for Diamond compared to the implied equity value of Diamond by the merger consideration, calculated based on HGV’s closing stock price as of March 5, 2021:

 

    

Implied Equity Value

Reference Range for Diamond

  

Equity Value for Diamond
Implied by Merger
Consideration

Base Valuation

   $580mm - $1,110mm   

Synergies

   $680mm - $840mm   

Synergies-Inclusive Valuation

   $1,260mm - $1,950mm    $1,479mm

Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses

Selected Publicly Traded Companies Analysis. BofA Securities reviewed publicly available financial and stock market information for HGV and three publicly traded companies in the timeshare industry. BofA Securities reviewed, among other things, enterprise values of the selected publicly traded companies, calculated as equity values based on closing stock prices on March 5, 2021, plus debt, plus preferred stock, plus minority interest, and less cash and cash equivalents, as a multiple of calendar year 2019 and estimated calendar year 2022 (which years were selected by BofA Securities in an effort to analyze financial characteristics of HGV unaffected by COVID-19) earnings before interest, taxes, depreciations and amortization, unburdened for net construction deferrals, non-operating gains, share-based compensation expenses and one-time, non-recurring expenses including impairment expenses, calculated in accordance with a methodology prescribed by HGV’s management, which is referred to herein as Adj. EBITDA. The mean and median enterprise value / calendar year 2019 Adj. EBITDA multiple observed for the selected publicly traded companies were 9.4x and 9.0x, respectively, and the mean and median enterprise value / estimated calendar year 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiple for the selected publicly traded companies were 9.5x and 9.2x, respectively. The selected publicly traded companies and their respective multiples are as follows:

 

Selected Publicly Traded Companies

   Enterprise Value / Adj. EBITDA  
   2019A      2022E  

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation

     13.1x        11.2x  

Travel + Leisure Co.

     8.6x        9.1x  

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc.

     9.4x        9.4x  

Bluegreen Corporation

     6.6x        8.2x  

The overall low to high calendar year 2019 and 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiples observed for selected publicly traded companies were 6.6x to 13.1x (with an average of 9.4x and a median of 9.0x) and 8.2x to 11.2x (with an average of 9.5x and a median of 9.2x), respectively. Estimated financial data of the selected publicly traded companies were based on publicly available research analysts’ estimates and estimated financial data of HGV were based on the HGV Forecasts.

Based on the financial characteristics of the selected publicly traded companies and HGV, and based on its professional judgment and experience, BofA Securities applied calendar year 2019 and 2022 Adj. EBITDA multiples of 7.0x to 9.0x, derived from the selected publicly traded companies to HGV’s calendar year 2019 and 2022 estimated Adj. EBITDA of $453 million and $469 million, respectively, as set forth in the HGV Forecasts, to calculate ranges of implied enterprise values per share of our common stock. BofA Securities then calculated implied per share of our common stock equity value reference ranges by deducting estimated net debt of HGV of $737 million as of December 31, 2020, as provided by HGV’s management, from such equity values, and dividing the result by the number of fully-diluted shares outstanding, calculated using the treasury stock method, based on information provided by HGV management.

 

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This analysis indicated the following approximate implied per share of our common stock equity value reference ranges for HGV, rounded to the nearest $0.25, as compared to the trading price of our common stock as of March 5, 2021:

 

Implied Per Share Equity Value Range for HGV

    

        2019A         

  

        2022E         

  

HGV Per Share Trading Price as of
March 5, 2021

$28.00 - $38.50

   $29.25 - $40.00    $40.55

No company used in this analysis is identical or directly comparable to HGV. Accordingly, an evaluation of the results of this analysis is not entirely mathematical. Rather, this analysis involves complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in financial and operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the public trading or other values of the companies to which HGV was compared.

Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. BofA Securities performed a discounted cash flow analysis of HGV to calculate the estimated present value of the standalone unlevered, after-tax free cash flows that HGV was forecasted to generate during calendar years 2021 through 2025 based on the HGV Forecasts. BofA Securities calculated terminal values for HGV by applying terminal forward multiples of 6.5x to 8.5x to HGV’s calendar year 2026 estimated Adj. EBITDA. The cash flows and terminal values were then discounted to present value as of March 5, 2021 using discount rates ranging from 8.50% to 10.50%, which were based on an estimate of HGV’s weighted average cost of capital. From the resulting enterprise values, BofA Securities deducted estimated net debt of HGV as of December 31, 2020 of $737 million, as provided by HGV’s management, from such enterprise values and dividing the result by the number of fully-diluted shares outstanding, calculated using the treasury stock method, based on information provided by HGV’s management.

This analysis indicated the following approximate implied per share of our common stock equity value reference ranges for HGV, rounded to the nearest $0.25, as compared to the trading price of our common stock as of March 5, 2021:

 

Implied Per Share Equity Value Reference Range for HGV

  

HGV Per Share Trading Price as of March 5, 2021

$35.75 - $50.75

   $40.55

Summary of Material Relative Financial Analyses

Using the results of the analyses described above under “Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses—Selected Publicly Traded Companies Analysis”, “Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses—Discounted Cash Flow Analysis”, “Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses—Selected Publicly Traded Companies Analysis”, and “Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses— Discounted Cash Flow Analysis”, BofA Securities determined Diamond’s implied relative pro forma ownership percentage of the combined company. In order to calculate the implied relative pro forma ownership, BofA Securities used (i) implied equity value ranges inclusive of synergies for Diamond and the implied aggregate common stock equity value reference ranges for HGV, in each case obtained pursuant to the selected publicly traded companies analysis using 2019 Adj. EBITDA and 2022 estimated Adj. EBITDA and rounded to the nearest $10 million, and (ii) the implied equity value range inclusive of synergies for Diamond and the implied aggregate common stock equity value reference range for HGV, in each case obtained pursuant to the discounted cash flow analysis and rounded to the nearest $10 million. BofA Securities then compared Diamond’s implied relative pro forma ownership percentages of the combined company resulting from these analyses with Diamond’s relative pro forma ownership percentage of the combined company implied by the merger consideration, as follows:

 

     Publicly Traded Companies      Discounted Cash
Flow
     Aggregate Merger
Consideration
(before
adjustments)
 
     2019A      2022E  

Diamond Pro Forma Ownership Percentage (with synergies)

     25.4% - 42.1%        26.7% - 43.2%        22.2% - 38.6%        29.5

 

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Other Factors

In rendering its opinion, BofA Securities also noted certain additional factors that were not considered part of BofA Securities’ material financial analyses with respect to its opinion but were referenced for informational purposes, including, among other things, the following:

 

  (1)

historical trading prices and trading volumes of our common stock during the period from January 1, 2019 until March 5, 2021 (the “Reference Period”);

 

  (2)

an illustrative has/gets analysis to calculate the theoretical change in value for HGV stockholders resulting from the merger based on a comparison of (i) the pro forma ownership by HGV stockholders of the combined company following the merger, and (ii) the 100% ownership by HGV stockholders of our common stock on a stand-alone basis, using the discounted cash flow analyses described above in “—Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses—Discounted Cash Flow Analysis” And “—Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses—Discounted Cash Flow Analysis”, which indicated that the value attributable to a share of our common stock on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the merger would generally be higher than that on a stand-alone basis based on such analyses; and

 

  (3)

the potential pro forma financial effect of the merger on HGV’s estimated adjusted free cash flow per share from 2021 through 2023, which indicated that the merger could be accretive to HGV’s adjusted free cash flow per share in each of calendar years 2021 through 2023.

Miscellaneous

As noted above, the discussion set forth above in the sections entitled “—Summary of Material Diamond Financial Analyses,” “—Summary of Material HGV Financial Analyses”, and “—Summary of Material Relative Financial Analyses” represent a brief summary of the material financial analyses presented by BofA Securities to HGV’s board of directors in connection with its opinion and is not a comprehensive description of all analyses undertaken by BofA Securities in connection with its opinion. The preparation of a financial opinion is a complex analytical process involving various determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial analysis and the application of those methods to the particular circumstances and, therefore, a financial opinion is not readily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. BofA Securities believes that its analyses summarized above must be considered as a whole. BofA Securities further believes that selecting portions of its analyses and the factors considered or focusing on information presented in tabular format, without considering all analyses and factors or the narrative description of the analyses, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the processes underlying BofA Securities’ analyses and opinion. The fact that any specific analysis has been referred to in the summary above is not meant to indicate that such analysis was given greater weight than any other analysis referred to in the summary.

In performing its analyses, BofA Securities considered industry performance, general business and economic conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of HGV and Diamond. The estimates of the future performance of HGV and Diamond in or underlying BofA Securities’ analyses are not necessarily indicative of actual values or actual future results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those estimates or those suggested by BofA Securities’ analyses. These analyses were prepared solely as part of BofA Securities’ analysis of the fairness, from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration and were provided to HGV’s board of directors in connection with the delivery of BofA Securities’ opinion. The analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which a company might actually be sold or the prices at which any securities have traded or may trade at any time in the future. Accordingly, the estimates used in, and the ranges of valuations resulting from, any particular analysis described above are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty and should not be taken to be BofA Securities’ view of the actual values of HGV or Diamond.

The type and amount of consideration payable in the merger was determined through negotiations between HGV and Diamond, rather than by any financial advisor, and was approved by HGV’s board of directors. The

 

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decision to enter into the merger agreement was solely that of HGV’s board of directors. As described above, BofA Securities’ opinion and analyses were only one of many factors considered by HGV’s board of directors in its evaluation of the proposed merger and should not be viewed as determinative of the views of HGV’s board of directors or management with respect to the merger or the merger consideration.

HGV has agreed to pay BofA Securities for its services in connection with the merger an aggregate fee of up to $35 million, of which (a) $1.5 million was payable in connection with its opinion, and (b) $31.0 million base fee and up to $2.5 million discretionary fee are contingent upon the completion of the merger. HGV also has agreed to reimburse BofA Securities for its expenses incurred in connection with BofA Securities’ engagement and to indemnify BofA Securities, any controlling person of BofA Securities and each of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents and affiliates against specified liabilities, including liabilities under the federal securities laws.

BofA Securities and its affiliates comprise a full service securities firm and commercial bank engaged in securities, commodities and derivatives trading, foreign exchange and other brokerage activities, and principal investing as well as providing investment, corporate and private banking, asset and investment management, financing and financial advisory services and other commercial services and products to a wide range of companies, governments and individuals. In the ordinary course of their businesses, BofA Securities and its affiliates invest on a principal basis or on behalf of customers or manage funds that invest, make or hold long or short positions, finance positions or trade or otherwise effect transactions in the equity, debt or other securities or financial instruments (including derivatives, bank loans or other obligations) of HGV, Diamond and certain of their respective affiliates.

BofA Securities and its affiliates in the past have provided, currently are providing, and in the future may provide, investment banking, commercial banking and other financial services to HGV and have received or in the future may receive compensation for the rendering of these services, including (i) having acted or acting as joint lead manager in certain asset-backed securitization transactions and as administrative agent, managing agent and/or as a joint bookrunner for, and as a lender (including in some cases as a swing-line lender and a letter of credit lender) to, HGV and/or its affiliates, and (ii) having provided or providing certain derivatives and foreign exchange trading and treasury management services and products to HGV and/or its affiliates. From February 1, 2019 through January 31, 2021, BofA Securities and its affiliates derived aggregate revenues from HGV and its affiliates of approximately $22 million.

As described below under “—Description of Debt Financing”, BofA Securities and its affiliate Bank of America, N.A., together with a group of other banks and lending institutions, entered into a commitment letter with HGV with respect to certain financing arrangements in connection with the merger. Pursuant to such commitment letter, BofA Securities will act as a global coordinator and bookrunner with respect to the term loan and bridge loan facilities and Bank of America, N.A. will act as sole administrative agent with respect to the term loan facility. In addition, Bank of America, N.A. acted as bookrunner with respect to certain amendments to the Company’s existing facility in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and made “back-stop” financing commitments in respect thereof. In connection with such commitment letter, BofA Securities, together with a group of other securities firms, also entered into an engagement letter with an affiliate of HGV pursuant to which BofA Securities would act as underwriter, initial purchaser, placement agent, bookrunner and/or billing and delivery agent with respect to the underwritten offering or private placement of debt securities to be issued in connection with the merger. BofA Securities and Bank of America, N.A. will be entitled to receive fees in an aggregate amount estimated to be up to $9.5 million in connection with the aforementioned financing arrangements.

In addition, BofA Securities and its affiliates in the past have provided, currently are providing, and in the future may provide, investment banking, commercial banking and other financial services to Diamond and have received or in the future may receive compensation for the rendering of these services, including having provided or providing certain derivatives and foreign exchange trading and treasury management services and products to Diamond and/or its affiliates. From February 1, 2019 through January 31, 2021, BofA Securities and its affiliates derived aggregate revenues from Diamond and its affiliates of approximately $2.5 million.

 

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In addition, BofA Securities and its affiliates in the past have provided, currently are providing, and in the future may provide, investment banking, commercial banking and other financial services to Apollo, an affiliate of Diamond, and certain of its affiliates and their portfolio companies and have received or in the future may receive compensation for the rendering of these services, including (i) having acted or acting as financial advisor to Apollo and certain of its affiliates and their portfolio companies in connection with certain M&A transactions, (ii) having acted or acting as administrative agent, collateral agent, arranger, bookrunner and/or lender for Apollo and certain of its affiliates and their portfolio companies in connection with, among other things, the financing for various acquisition transactions, (iii) having acted or acting as underwriter, initial purchaser and placement agent for various equity and debt offerings undertaken by Apollo and certain of its affiliates and their portfolio companies and (iv) having provided or providing certain commodity, derivatives and foreign exchange trading services and treasury and trade management services and products to Apollo and certain of its affiliates and their portfolio companies. From February 1, 2019 through January 31, 2021, BofA Securities and its affiliates derived aggregate revenues from Apollo and its affiliates in excess of $400 million.

Certain Unaudited Prospective Financial Information

Other than annual and other limited financial guidance provided to investors, which we may update from time to time, we do not, as a matter of course, publicly disclose long-term forecasts as to future performance, earnings or other results due to, among other reasons, the unpredictability of the underlying assumptions and estimates. However, we have included below certain of our financial forecasts that, as described below, were furnished to our board of directors, BofA Securities, Diamond and Diamond’s financial advisor, Credit Suisse, in connection with discussions concerning the merger. During the course of our evaluation of Diamond, we received from Diamond and Credit Suisse similar long-term forecasts of Diamond, including Diamond’s Adjusted EBITDA, to which we made certain adjustments to be consistent with our forecasting methodology, including our definition of Adjusted EBITDA. Such adjustments lowered Diamond provided forecasts for all covered years. We refer to such adjusted Diamond forecast in this proxy statement as the “Adjusted Diamond Forecasts.” Our management provided to our board of directors and our financial advisor the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts, the HGV Forecasts, the Net Synergies/Cost Savings, and the HGV Combined Company Forecasts.

For internal purposes and in connection with the process leading to the merger agreement, our management prepared certain projections of future financial performance of HGV on a stand-alone basis for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. We refer to the HGV forecasts in this proxy statement as the “HGV Forecasts.” The estimates of HGV’s future financial performance set forth below entitled “HGV Forecasts” were prepared by our management based on management’s reasonable best estimates, judgments and assumptions with respect to HGV’s future financial performance at the time such estimates were prepared. Our management furnished the HGV Forecasts to our board of directors and BofA Securities, Diamond and Credit Suisse.

As noted above, we also provided to our board of directors and BofA Securities the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts. The estimates set forth below entitled “Adjusted Diamond Forecasts” were prepared using forecasts provided by Diamond’s management based on such management’s reasonable best estimates, judgments and assumptions with respect to its future financial performance at the time such estimates were prepared, as adjusted by our management to be consistent with our forecasting methodology, including our definition of Adjusted EBITDA. In all affected forecast years, our management’s adjustments resulted in lower Adjusted Diamond Forecasts as compared to forecasts provided by Diamond.

Our management, after discussions with Diamond, also estimated that the projected realization of (i) annual EBITDA synergies would be $25.1 million, $117.1 million, $135.7 million, $133.4 million and $119.8 million for each of the years ending December 31, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, respectively, and (ii) discrete costs would be $25 million, $106.1 million, $104.5 million, $111.7 million and $10.5 million for each of the years ending December 31, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, respectively, in each case assuming a July 1, 2021 closing date (which we refer to as the “Net Synergies/Cost Savings”). Such synergies are not reflected in the

 

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HGV Forecasts or the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts but they are reflected in the HGV Combined Company Forecasts (as defined below). In addition, our management prepared certain projections of future financial and operating performance for the combined company for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 by combining the HGV Forecasts, the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts and the Net Synergies/Cost Savings. Such projections are referred to in this proxy statement as the “HGV Combined Company Forecasts.” The HGV Combined Company Forecasts were provided to our board of directors and BofA Securities.

The HGV Forecasts, the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts, the Net Synergies/Cost Savings and the HGV Combined Company Forecasts are sometimes referred to as the “HGV Forward Looking Financial Information.”

With our approval, BofA Securities utilized the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information for its financial analysis and for purposes of its opinion (summarized in the section entitled “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement). The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information (i.e., prospective financial information) was not prepared with a view toward public disclosure or with a view toward complying with the guidelines established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants with respect to prospective financial information, but, in the view of our and Diamond’s management, was prepared on a reasonable basis and reflects the best currently available estimates and judgments. In addition, the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information was not prepared with a view toward complying with the published guidelines of the SEC regarding forward-looking statements or GAAP. Instead, such information was prepared on a reasonable basis, reflects the best currently available estimates and judgments, and presents, to each of our and Diamond’s respective management’s knowledge and belief, the expected course of action and the expected future financial performance of each of us, Diamond, and us and Diamond on a combined basis for the purposes of evaluating the merger. A summary of this information is presented below.

The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information covers multiple years and by their nature become less reliable with each successive year. While the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information was prepared in good faith, no assurance can be made regarding future events. The estimates and assumptions underlying these financial forecasts involve judgments with respect to, among other things, future economic, competitive, regulatory and financial market conditions and future business decisions that may not be realized and that are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies, including, among other things, the inherent uncertainty of the business and economic conditions affecting the industries in which we and Diamond operate, and the risks and uncertainties described under “Risk Factors” (as well as those that are incorporated by reference in this proxy statement) and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements,” all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are outside our and Diamond’s control and will be beyond the control of the combined company. We urge our stockholders to review our SEC filings for a description of risk factors with respect to our business, as well as the section entitled “Risk Factors.” There can be no assurance that the underlying assumptions will prove to be accurate or that the projected results will be realized, and actual results likely will differ, and may differ materially, from those reflected in the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information, whether or not the merger is completed. The inclusion in this proxy statement of the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information below should not be regarded as an indication that we, Diamond, our respective boards of directors or our respective financial advisors considered, or now considers, these forecasts to be necessarily predictive of future results. The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information should not be relied upon as being necessarily indicative of future results, and readers of this proxy statement are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this information. In addition, both the HGV Forecasts and the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts assume that each of HGV and Diamond would continue to operate as standalone companies, without giving effect to the merger or other transactions discussed in this proxy statement and as if the merger and other transactions had not been contemplated by us or Diamond.

The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information includes certain non-GAAP financial measures. Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information presented in compliance with GAAP, and non-GAAP financial measures as presented in this proxy

 

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statement may not be comparable to similarly titled amounts used by us, Diamond or other companies. The footnotes to the tables below provide certain supplemental information with respect to the calculation of these non-GAAP financial measures. Neither Ernst & Young LLP (our independent registered public accounting firm) nor any other independent registered public accounting firm (including Deloitte & Touche LLP, as Diamond’s independent auditors) has examined, compiled or otherwise performed any procedures with respect to the prospective financial information contained in these financial forecasts and, accordingly, none of Ernst & Young LLP, Deloitte & Touche LLP and any other independent registered public accounting firm has expressed any opinion or given any other form of assurance with respect thereto and no independent registered public accounting firm assumes any responsibility for the prospective financial information. Neither firm assumes any responsibility for, and each disclaims any association with, such information. The Ernst & Young LLP and Deloitte & Touche LLP reports incorporated by reference or included in this proxy statement relate to the historical financial information of HGV and Diamond, respectively. Those reports do not extend to the financial forecasts and should not be read to do so. The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information forecasts were prepared by HGV solely for use by our board of directors in connection with its consideration of HGV’s acquisition of Diamond, and BofA Securities in connection with their financial analysis and opinion and, Diamond and Diamond’s financial advisor in connection with Diamond’s consideration of the merger. Such forecasts are subjective in many respects.

By including in this proxy statement the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information below, none of HGV, Diamond or any of our or their respective representatives has made or makes any representation to any person regarding the ultimate performance of HGV or Diamond compared to the information contained in the financial forecasts. Further, the inclusion of HGV Forward Looking Financial Information in this proxy statement does not constitute an admission or representation by us that this information is material. The HGV Forward Looking Financial Information summarized in this section reflected the best estimates, judgments and assumptions available to our management at the time such information was prepared and have not been updated to reflect any changes since the dates each was prepared. Neither us nor, after completion of the merger, the combined company undertakes any obligation, except as required by law, to update or otherwise revise the HGV Forward Looking Financial Information to reflect circumstances existing since their preparation or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, even in the event that any or all of the underlying assumptions are shown to be in error, or to reflect changes in general economic or industry conditions.

HGV Forward Looking Financial Information should be evaluated, if at all, in conjunction with the historical financial statements and other information regarding HGV contained in our filings with the SEC.

The summary of the financial forecasts is not included in this proxy statement in order to induce any stockholder to vote in favor of the stock issuance proposal or any of the other proposals to be voted on at the special meeting; it is included because HGV Forward Looking Financial Information was made available to our board of directors and our financial advisor and, in the case of the HGV Forecasts, to Diamond and Diamond’s financial advisor.

HGV Forecasts

The following table presents a summary of the HGV Forecasts prepared by our management. The HGV Forecasts were reviewed with our board of directors. The HGV Forecasts were also provided to BofA Securities and approved by us for its use in connection with its financial analysis and fairness opinion rendered to our board of directors (summarized in the section entitled “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement), and provided to Diamond and Diamond’s financial advisor in connection with Diamond’s consideration of the merger. Amounts in millions, except per share data.

 

     2021E      2022E      2023E      2024E      2025E  

Total Revenues (Excluding Cost Reimbursements) (1)(2)

   $ 1,416      $ 1,943      $ 2,213      $ 2,396      $ 2,539  

Adjusted EBITDA (1)(3)

   $ 305      $ 469      $ 588      $ 662      $ 731  

Unlevered Free Cash Flow (4)

   $ 4      $ 192      $ 177      $ 544      $ 401  

 

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(1)

Forecasts exclude the impact of net deferrals of revenue and direct expenses related to the sales of VOIs for projects under construction.

(2)

Total revenues includes vacation ownership interest sales, service and membership related fees, rental and ancillary service fees and consumer financing fees.

(3)

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”) is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. For purposes of the HGV Financial Forecasts, Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to common stockholders, before interest income or expense (excluding consumer financing interest income and expense), provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, non-cash compensation expense, other non-operating income and certain special or non-recurring items.

(4)

Unlevered free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. HGV’s unlevered free cash flow is defined as cash from operating activities plus tax-effected net interest expense, less non-inventory capital spending, less non-recourse debt activities.

Adjusted Diamond Forecasts

The following table presents a summary of the Adjusted Diamond Forecasts which were based on certain projections prepared by Diamond’s management of Diamond’s future financial performance, as adjusted by our management. The Adjusted Diamond Forecasts were reviewed with our board of directors. The Adjusted Diamond Forecasts were also provided to BofA Securities and approved by us for its use in connection with its financial analysis and fairness opinion rendered to our board of directors (summarized in the section entitled “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement). Amounts in millions, except per share data.

 

     2021E      2022E      2023E      2024E      2025E  

Total Revenues (Excluding Cost Reimbursements) (1)

   $ 1,377      $ 1,506      $ 1,551      $ 1,605      $ 1,652  

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

   $ 253      $ 324      $ 337      $ 352      $ 368  

Unlevered Free Cash Flow (3)

   $ 56      $ 258      $ 287      $ 306      $ 310  

 

(1)

Total revenues includes vacation ownership interest sales, service and membership related fees, rental and ancillary service fees and consumer financing fees.

(2)

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”) is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. For purposes of the HGV-Adjusted Diamond Financial Forecasts, Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to common stockholders, before interest income or expense (excluding consumer financing interest income and expense), provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, non-cash compensation expense, other non-operating income and certain special or non-recurring items.

(3)

Unlevered free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. HGV-Adjusted Diamond’s unlevered free cash flow is defined as cash from operating activities plus tax-effected net interest expense, less non-inventory capital spending, less non-recourse debt activities.

HGV Pro Forma Forecasts for Combined Company

The following table presents a summary of the HGV Combined Company Forecasts prepared by our management. The HGV Combined Company Forecasts were reviewed with our board of directors. The HGV Combined Company Forecasts were also provided to BofA Securities and approved by us for its use in connection with its financial analysis and fairness opinion rendered to our board of directors (summarized in the

 

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section entitled “—Opinion of Our Financial Advisor” beginning on page 59 of this proxy statement). Amounts in millions, except per share data.

 

     2021E      2022E      2023E      2024E      2025E  

Total Revenues (Excluding Cost Reimbursements) (1)(2)

   $ 2,793      $ 3,636      $ 4,044      $ 4,297      $ 4,494  

Adjusted EBITDA (1)(3)(5)

   $ 583      $ 910      $ 1,060      $ 1,148      $ 1,219  

Unlevered Free Cash Flow(4)(5)

   $ 41      $ 571      $ 770      $ 740      $ 692  

 

(1)

Forecasts exclude the impact of net deferrals of revenue and direct expenses related to the sales of VOIs for projects under construction.

(2)

Total revenues includes vacation ownership interest sales, service and membership related fees, rental and ancillary service fees and consumer financing fees.

(3)

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”) is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. For purposes of the HGV Combined Company Financial Forecasts, Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to common stockholders, before interest income or expense (excluding consumer financing interest income and expense), provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, non-cash compensation expense, other non-operating income and certain special or non-recurring items.

(4)

Unlevered free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating performance or cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. HGV Combined Company’s unlevered free cash flow is defined as cash from operating activities plus tax-effected net interest expense, less non-inventory capital spending, less non-recourse debt activities. Unlevered Free Cash Flow shown includes discrete integration-related costs, plus cost and revenue synergies net of incremental license fees.

(5)

Reflects the updated synergies estimate of $25 million for 2021, based on an anticipated closing date of July 1, 2021. The original synergies estimate of $59 million for 2021, based on an assumed January 1, 2021 closing, resulted in Adjusted EBITDA of $616 million in 2021 and Unlevered Free Cash Flow of $65 million in 2021.

Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger

In considering the recommendation of our board of directors to vote “FOR” the stock issuance proposal, you should be aware that certain members of our board of directors and certain executive officers may have interests in the merger that may be in addition to, or different from, your interest as our stockholder. These interests may create the appearance of conflicts of interest. Our board of directors was aware of these potential conflicts of interest during its deliberations on the merits of the merger and in making its decisions to approve the merger agreement, the merger and the stock issuance.

Each of the current members of our board of directors and our senior management team will continue as our director or executive officer, respectively, following the completion of the merger and will hold office from and after the completion of the merger until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement or removal, except that, as previously announced, we and our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer have agreed to separate after the consummation of the merger as part of our planned integration of the Diamond business and synergy in connection with the merger.

The merger will technically constitute a “change in control” for purposes of our currently outstanding equity-based awards and current executive severance agreements. However, as our obligations to make or confer any change in control payments, accelerated vesting or benefit enhancements under such agreements and arrangements are “double-trigger” (i.e., such benefits are triggered only as a result of a qualifying termination within a certain period of time after a “change in control” event), and, except with respect to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer as described above, we do not intend to terminate any of our executive officers in connection with the merger, we do not anticipate any change in control payments, accelerated vesting

 

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or benefit enhancements to be triggered for our executive officers by the merger. The merger also will constitute a “change in control” under our Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, pursuant to which certain of our executive officers have elected to defer salary and/or bonus amounts. Pursuant to the terms of such plan, we are required to distribute to all plan participants all deferred amounts within thirty (30) days following the closing of the merger. However, all deferred compensation accounts are fully vested and only comprise those earned amounts that our executive officers have elected to defer. The merger does not result in any benefit enhancements under the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan.

Merger-Related Compensation for Our Named Executive Officers

The information set forth in the table below is intended to comply with Item 402(t) of Regulation S-K, which requires disclosure of information about certain compensation and benefits payable to each of our named executive officers that is based on or otherwise relates to the merger.

The compensation shown in this table and described in the footnote to the table is the subject of a non-binding, advisory vote of our stockholders at the special meeting, as described in “Proposal No. 2: Compensation Proposal” beginning on page 149. The compensation reflected in the table below would be triggered by the merger only if and upon the named executive officer’s “qualifying termination” (as defined below) within certain periods of time after the consummation of the merger as specified in such table. However, as noted previously, except with respect to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, for whom we have already disclosed the pending separation, we do not intend to terminate any of our named executive officers in connection with the merger. Accordingly, we do not expect to make any such payments to our named executive officers other than to our Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer in connection with her separation, and the information below is provided solely to comply with the applicable disclosure requirements as noted above. In addition, with respect to the cash severance payments, our named executive officers would be entitled to such amounts in any event upon a qualifying termination in accordance with the terms of the severance agreements even without the consummation of the merger. None of the information below represents any additional or enhanced benefits for our named executive officers other than those that already exist and have been previously disclosed.

The amounts reflected in the table relate to each named executive officer’s existing severance agreement and equity awards, which arrangements we have previously disclosed in our proxy statement for our 2021 annual meeting of stockholders. The amounts indicated below are estimates based on multiple assumptions that may or may not actually occur or be accurate on the relevant date, including the assumptions described below, and do not reflect certain compensation actions that may occur before the effective time of the merger. For purposes of calculating such amounts, we have assumed (i) July 15, 2021, as the closing date of the merger: (ii) a termination of each named executive officer’s employment without cause or resignation for good reason, effective as of immediately following the effective time of the merger; and (iii) a price per share of our common stock of $40.14 (the average closing market price of our common stock over the first 5 business days following the public announcement of the merger on March 10, 2021).

 

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Golden Parachute Compensation

 

Named Executive Officer

   Cash ($)(1)      Equity ($)(2)      Pension/NQ
DC (3)
     Perquisites/
Benefits ($)(4)
     Total ($)  

Mark. D. Wang

President & CEO

   $ 5,937,500      $ 14,081,243             $ 22,453      $ 20,041,196  

Daniel J. Mathewes

EVP & CFO

   $ 2,475,000      $ 3,799,833             $ 30,160      $ 6,304,993  

Charles R. Corbin

EVP & Chief Legal Officer

   $ 1,909,620      $ 3,142,510             $ 22,292      $ 5,074,422  

Dennis A. DeLorenzo

EVP & Chief Sales Officer

   $ 2,622,546      $ 3,169,201             $ 30,212      $ 5,821,959  

Sherri A. Silver (5)

Former EVP & Chief Marketing Officer

   $ 2,622,546      $ 1,819,025             $ 30,223      $ 4,471,793  

Barbara L. Hollkamp(6)

Former EVP & Chief Human Resources Officer

                                  
(1)

Reflects double-trigger severance benefits that would become payable under the applicable severance agreements for our NEOs. The severance agreements provide that a “qualifying termination” means a termination of employment either by us without “cause” or by the executive for “good reason,” each as defined in the applicable severance agreement. An executive is not deemed to have experienced a qualifying termination as a result of (a) his or her death or disability or (b) solely as a result of a change in control. Under the applicable severance agreement, in the event of a qualifying termination within 24 months of a change in control, each NEO would be entitled to receive a cash severance amount equal to 2.5 times (in the case of Mr. Wang) or 2.0 times (in the case of the other NEOs) the sum of the executive’s annual base salary at the rate in effect at the time of such termination and annual target cash incentive award under the short-term incentive plan for the year in which such termination occurs. The NEO also would be entitled to a pro rata bonus for the year in which his or her qualifying termination occurred. For purposes of this table, we have assumed that the NEOs received a pro rata target bonus for 2021.

 

(2)

Reflects double-trigger equity acceleration benefits. The merger will constitute a “change in control” under our 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as amended. If the NEO’s employment is terminated by us ‘’without cause” or by the NEO for “good reason” within 12 months following a change in control, then (i) all unvested service-based RSUs will immediately vest; (ii) all unvested stock options will immediately vest and become exercisable until the earlier of the expiration of the options or 90 days after the termination date; and (iii) the performance-based RSUs will immediately vest at actual performance, or at target if performance cannot reasonably be assessed. For the purposes of this table, we have assumed that the performance-based RSUs vested at target.

 

(3)

The merger will constitute a “change in control” under our Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (the “EDCP”), pursuant to which certain of our named executive officers have elected to defer salary and/or bonus amounts. Pursuant to the terms of such plan, we are required to distribute to all plan participants all deferred amounts within thirty (30) days following the closing of the merger. However, all deferred compensation accounts are fully vested and only comprise those earned amounts that our executive officers have elected to defer. The merger does not result in any benefit enhancements under the EDCP.

 

(4)

Reflects double-trigger benefits under the severance agreements. Under the applicable severance agreements for our NEOs, upon a “qualifying termination,” each NEO is entitled to continued healthcare coverage in an amount equal to the excess of the cost of the coverage over the amount that the executive would have had to pay if the executive remained employed for 18 months following the date of termination. In addition, to the extent we provide the executive’s life insurance coverage immediately prior to the qualifying termination and this coverage is eligible for post-termination continuation or conversion to an individual policy, each NEO is entitled to receive a cash payment equal to the amount required to continue such coverage as an individual policy for a period of 12 months following the termination date (and, if we deem necessary or advisable, to convert such coverage to an individual policy), payable in a single lump sum within 60 days following the termination date.

 

(5)

As previously disclosed, Ms. Silver will separate from the Company after the consummation of the merger as part of our planned integration of the Diamond business and synergy in connection with the merger.

 

(6)

Ms. Hollkamp separated from the Company effective July 31, 2020.

Our Board of Directors Following the Merger

Upon the effective time of the merger, our board of directors will expand from its current size of seven members to nine members. All seven members of our board of directors prior to the merger will remain on our

 

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board of directors following the merger, and, pursuant to the stockholders agreement, two new members designated by the Apollo Investors will be appointed to our board of directors at the effective time of the merger. See “Other Agreements—Stockholders Agreement” below, for more information about the stockholders agreements and Apollo’s right to appoint certain designees to our board of directors.

Regulatory Clearances Required for the Merger

We and Diamond have agreed to use each of our reasonable best efforts to obtain all governmental and regulatory clearances and approvals required to complete the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including our reasonable best efforts to (i) resolve such objections, if any, as may be asserted by any governmental authority with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby and (ii) take all such actions as may be required to obtain all antitrust approvals as promptly as possible after the execution of the merger agreement and no later than the merger agreement Termination Date, including such action that would (A) require the divestiture of any businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, of HGV, Diamond, or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates, (B) limit HGV’s freedom of action with respect to, or its ability to consolidate and control, Diamond and its subsidiaries or affiliates or any of their businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, or any of HGV’s or its subsidiaries or affiliates’ other businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, or (C) limit HGV’s ability to acquire or hold, or exercise full rights of ownership with respect to Diamond and its subsidiaries or affiliates, provided that (x) such action is conditioned on consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and (y) such action would not require HGV to sell, divest, assign, dispose of or hold separate any businesses, properties, rights or assets of HGV, Diamond or their respective affiliates and subsidiaries, or agree to, or enter into any conditions or mitigation agreements or other remedies with respect to, any businesses, properties, rights or assets of HGV, Diamond or their respective affiliates and subsidiaries, that (together with all other businesses, properties, rights and assets that are subject to antitrust remedies) generated more than $75,000,000 in revenues during the parties’ respective most recently completed fiscal years.

United States Antitrust. Under the HSR Act, certain transactions, including the merger, may not be completed until notifications have been given and information furnished to the Antitrust Division and the FTC and all statutory waiting period requirements have been satisfied. We and Diamond filed the Notification and Report Forms with the Antitrust Division and the FTC on March 29, 2021, and the other Apollo Investors completed their respective filings on March 30, 2021. The relevant waiting periods expired at 11:59 p.m. Eastern on April 28, 2021 and April 29, 2021.

It is not out of the ordinary for the FTC and the Antitrust Division to scrutinize the legality of transactions like the merger under U.S. antitrust laws. At any time before or after the consummation of the merger, notwithstanding the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the HSR Act, the FTC or Antitrust Division could take such action under the antitrust laws as it deems necessary or desirable in the public interest, including seeking to enjoin the completion of the merger, seeking divestiture of substantial assets of the parties or requiring the parties to license, or hold separate, assets or terminate existing relationships and contractual rights. At any time before or after the completion of the merger, and notwithstanding the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the HSR Act, any U.S. state could take such action under its antitrust laws as it deems necessary or desirable in the public interest. Such action could include seeking to enjoin the completion of the merger or seeking divestiture of substantial assets of the parties. Private parties may also seek to take legal action under the antitrust laws under certain circumstances. Although there is no assurance that they will not do so, we do not expect any regulatory authority, state or private party to take legal action under the antitrust laws.

Mexican Antitrust. The approval of the merger by the COFECE under the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law is required to consummate the merger. Under the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law, transactions involving parties with sales/assets above certain thresholds cannot be completed until they are reviewed and approved by COFECE. We, Diamond and the Apollo Investors filed a formal notification to COFECE of the merger on April 9, 2021 and expect that COFECE will unanimously and unconditionally approve the merger in the second or third quarter of 2021.

 

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Austrian Antitrust. The approval of the merger by the Bundeswettbewerbsbehörde (“BWB”), or Federal Competition Authority, under the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act is required to consummate the merger. Under the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act, transactions involving parties with sales above certain revenue levels cannot be completed until they are reviewed and approved by the BWB. We and Diamond filed a formal notification to the BWB of the merger on April 9, 2021 and received formal notice of unconditional clearance on May 10, 2021.

We cannot assure you that a challenge to the merger will not be made or that, if a challenge is made, it will not succeed.

Treatment of Diamond Equity-Based Awards

Each in-the-money option, whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to the option consideration (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option).

All Diamond options outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that are not in-the-money options will (i) to the extent not then vested, become fully vested as of immediately prior to the effective time (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such option) and (ii) automatically be cancelled and terminated at the effective time without payment therefor, and, to such extent, will have no further force or effect.

Accounting Treatment

The merger will be accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with GAAP, with us being considered the acquiror. This means that we will allocate the aggregate merger consideration to assets and liabilities of Diamond based on their estimated fair values as of the date of completion of the merger, with any excess merger consideration being allocated to goodwill. See the section entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Information of HGV and Diamond” and related notes thereto beginning on page 133 of this proxy statement.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences for Our Stockholders

Our stockholders will not recognize any gain or loss as a result of the merger related to their ownership of our common stock. Accordingly, there are no material U.S. federal income tax consequences to you as a result of the merger.

NYSE Market Listing of Our Common Stock

We have agreed to use our reasonable best efforts to cause our common stock issued in connection with the merger to be approved for listing on the NYSE.

Description of Debt Financing

Overview

In connection with the merger, HGV intends to issue or borrow, or to cause one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries to issue or borrow, a combination of debt securities in a private offering, term loans and/or revolving loans. On March 25, 2021, HGV entered into the commitment letter with Bank of America, N.A., BofA Securities, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Deutsche Bank AG Cayman Islands Branch, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, Barclays Bank PLC, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC,

 

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JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, MUFG Bank, Ltd. and each of the other banks and lending institutions party thereto, pursuant to which the commitment parties have agreed to provide (i) a $675.0 million senior unsecured bridge loan facility and (ii) a $1.3 billion seven-year senior secured term loan facility. The commitment parties’ obligation to fund the facilities is subject to several limited conditions as set forth in the commitment letter, including, among others, completion of the merger substantially concurrently with the funding of the facilities, the non-occurrence of a company material adverse effect (as defined in the merger agreement) on Diamond, the accuracy in all material respects of certain representations and warranties related to both HGV and Diamond, the delivery of certain financial statements of HGV and Diamond and other customary conditions.

On May 20, 2021, we priced an unregistered offering of $850 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.000% senior notes due 2029, which is expected to close on June 4, 2021, subject to customary closing conditions.

Facilities

Pursuant to the terms of the commitment letter, the proceeds of the loans under the facilities will be available upon the satisfaction of several limited conditions precedent on completion of the merger and, if drawn, will be used, in part, to finance the repayment of certain existing indebtedness of HGV and Diamond and to pay fees, commissions and expenses incurred in connection with the merger. The loans under the bridge facility will mature on the 364th day after funding thereof. The loans under the term loan facility will mature on the seven-year anniversary after funding thereof.

Conditions Precedent

The commitment parties’ obligation to fund the loans under the facilities is subject to several limited conditions, including completion of the merger substantially concurrently with the funding of the facilities, the non-occurrence of a company material adverse effect (as such term is defined in the merger agreement) on Diamond, the accuracy in all material respects of certain representations and warranties related to both HGV and Diamond, the delivery of certain financial statements of HGV and Diamond and other customary conditions more fully set forth in the commitment letter.

Interest

Interest on the bridge loans will be at an annual rate equal to the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), for deposits with a three-month term in U.S. dollars adjusted for applicable statutory reserve requirements (such rate as so adjusted is referred to in this proxy statement as the “reserve adjusted Eurodollar rate”), plus the applicable margin and subject to a 0% LIBOR floor. The applicable margin for the bridge facility will initially be 4.50% per annum, subject to increase every three-month period by 0.50%, beginning at the end of the three-month period after the closing of, and funding of the loans under, the bridge facility, based on how long the loans under the bridge facility are outstanding. Interest will be paid quarterly in arrears and will be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in a year of 360 days.

At the option of HGV Borrower, borrowings under the term loan facility will bear interest at either a base rate or at the reserve adjusted Eurodollar rate, plus, in each case, an applicable margin and subject to a 0.50% LIBOR floor. The applicable margin for the term facility will be 2.00% per annum with respect to base rate borrowings, and 3.00% per annum with respect to the reserve adjusted Eurodollar rate borrowings.

If the base rate option is selected by HGV Borrower, interest will be at the base rate plus the applicable margin, calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in a year of 360 days (or 365 or 366 days, as the case may be, in the case base rate loans based upon the “prime rate”) and payable quarterly in arrears. The base rate will be, for any day, a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the highest of (i) the rate publicly announced by the administrative agent as its “prime rate”, (ii) the Federal Funds effective rate plus 1/2 of 1.00%, (iii) the one-month reserve adjusted Eurodollar Rate (provided, that the reserve adjusted Eurodollar Rate shall not be less than zero), plus 1.00% and (iv) 1.00%.

 

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If the reserve adjusted Eurodollar rate option is selected by HGV Borrower, interest will be determined based on interest periods to be selected by HGV Borrower of one, two, three or six months or (if agreed by all relevant lenders under the term loan facility) twelve months or a shorter period and for each interest period will be at an annual rate equal to LIBOR, for deposits with a term equivalent to such interest period in U.S. dollars adjusted for applicable reserve requirements, plus the applicable margin. Interest will be paid at the end of each interest period (and at the end of every three months, in the case of interest periods longer than three months) and will be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed in a year of 360 days.

Covenants and Events of Default

The commitment letter provides that the definitive financing agreement documenting (i) the bridge facility (if any), which is referred to in this proxy statement as the “bridge credit agreement”, will contain covenants substantially similar to the covenants in the indenture, dated as of October 24, 2016, among HGV Borrower, as issuer, the co-issuer party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee (as amended prior to the date of the commitment letter, the “existing indenture”), and (ii) the term loan facility, which is referred to in this proxy statement as the “term loan credit agreement”, will contain covenants substantially similar to the covenants in credit agreement, dated as of December 28, 2016, among HGV Borrower, the guarantors party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (as amended prior to the date of the commitment letter, the “existing credit agreement”), which, in each case, relate to, among other things, the following subjects:

 

   

legal existence;

 

   

payment of taxes;

 

   

maintenance of insurance;

 

   

performance of obligations;

 

   

maintenance of property;

 

   

observance of legal requirements;

 

   

delivery of financial statements and other information;

 

   

books and records;

 

   

limitations on indebtedness;

 

   

limitations on liens;

 

   

limitations on dispositions of assets;

 

   

limitations on affiliate transactions;

 

   

limitations on mergers, consolidations, amalgamations, liquidations and dissolutions;

 

   

limitations on restricted payments;

 

   

limitations on investments; and

 

   

limitation on negative pledges.

The commitment letter also provides that (i) the bridge credit agreement (if executed and delivered) will contain events of default limited to nonpayment of principal, interest or other amounts; inaccuracy of representations and warranties in any material respect; violation of covenants; cross acceleration and cross payment default to material indebtedness; voluntary and involuntary bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings; inability to pay debts as they become due; material monetary judgments; ERISA events that would result in a material adverse effect; actual or asserted invalidity of operative documents (including guarantees); invalidity of senior debt status or subordination provisions; and change of control (as defined in the existing indenture), in each case with customary grace periods, materiality thresholds, qualifications and exceptions and (ii) the term

 

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loan credit agreement (if executed and delivered) will contain events of default substantially similar to the events of default in the existing credit facility, limited to nonpayment of principal, interest or fees (with grace periods for interest, fees and other amounts); failure to perform negative covenants (and affirmative covenants to provide notice of default or maintain HGV Borrower’s corporate existence); failure to perform other covenants subject to a 30-day cure period after notice by the agent; any representation or warranty incorrect in any material respect when made; cross-default of, and cross-acceleration to, other indebtedness, subject to a threshold amount; bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings; final monetary judgments, subject to a threshold amount; ERISA events, subject to material adverse effect; invalidity (actual or asserted in writing by HGV Borrower) of the applicable operative documents or material portion of collateral; and change of control.

Securitization and Warehouse Facility

On or prior to the Closing Date, the Diamond Entities are required to have taken various actions with respect to their warehouse facilities. These include:

(a) obtaining commitments under Diamond’s existing Deutsche Bank warehouse facility and Credit Suisse variable funding note facility, which commitments in the aggregate shall be no less than an amount equal to (x) $400,000,000 minus (y) the proceeds of the asset-backed notes relating to a term securitization occurring in 2021 net of (i) the placement fee and other transaction expenses, (ii) the amount escrowed to fund the prefunding account and (iii) the amount used to repay the existing indebtedness under the related financing facilities;

(b) with respect to Diamond’s existing Deutsche Bank warehouse facility obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary pursuant to the terms set forth in the applicable warehouse commitment letter such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur under such facility, and such related amendments shall be deemed effective substantially concurrent with (and no later than the occurrence of) the merger;

(c) with respect to Diamond’s existing Credit Suisse receivables warehouse and variable funding note facility, obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur under such facility, and such related amendments shall be deemed effective substantially concurrent with (and no later than the occurrence of) the merger

(d) with respect to any other warehouse facilities that remain outstanding on or after the Closing Date, obtaining all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur thereunder, provided that, any such consents, approvals, amendments and waivers shall not change any existing right of the borrower parties to terminate early at their option and prepay such facility without penalty, and any related amendments shall be deemed effective substantially concurrent with (and no later than the occurrence of) the merger; and

(e) with respect to any warehouse facilities where the Diamond Entities have been unable to obtain all necessary consents, approvals, amendments and waivers necessary such that, immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated on the Closing Date (including the merger), no facility default shall occur thereunder, paying down on or prior to the Closing Date, with prior notice to us, the outstanding loan balance to zero and terminating all outstanding obligations relating thereto so that each related transaction document is no longer in full force and effect, and providing evidence of such termination as reasonably satisfactory to us.

Issuance of DROT-2021-1

On April 20, 2021, Diamond completed a securitization transaction involving the issuance of $319.2 million of securities consisting of four tranches of Vacation Interest notes receivable. For additional information see

 

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“Management’s Discussion & Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Diamond – Subsequent Events.”

Litigation Relating to the Merger

On April 21, 2021, Charles Blackburn, a purported stockholder of HGV filed a lawsuit in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, styled Blackburn v. Potter, et al., No. 2021-339-JTL (the “Blackburn Action”). The Blackburn Action was filed against HGV and our board of directors and purports to be asserted on behalf of plaintiff and all other similarly situated stockholders. The complaint in the Blackburn Action asserts that the HGV Board breached their fiduciary duties by omitting certain information issued in connection with the Preliminary Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021 (the “Preliminary Proxy”) in connection with the merger. The Blackburn Action seeks, among other things, certification of a class of HGV stockholders, a finding that our board of directors breached its fiduciary duties and an award of attorneys’, accountants’, and experts’ fees.

On April 30, 2021, Matthew Hopkins, a purported stockholder of HGV, filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, styled Hopkins v. Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc., et al., No. 21-cv-3857-ER (the “Hopkins Action”). The Hopkins Action was filed against HGV and our board of directors. The complaint in the Hopkins Action asserts that the Preliminary Proxy omitted certain material information, in violation of Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act, and that the members of our board of directors are control persons under Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act. The Hopkins Action seeks, among other things, an injunction enjoining the merger from closing, rescission of the merger or rescissory damages if the merger is consummated, the filing of an amendment to the Preliminary Proxy, and an award of attorneys’ and experts’ fees.

On May 7, 2021, Marina Clough, a purported stockholder of HGV, filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, styled Clough v. Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc., et al., No. 21-cv-2583-FB-PK (the “Clough Action”). The Clough Action was filed against HGV and our board of directors. The complaint in the Clough Action asserts that the Preliminary Proxy omitted certain material information, in violation of Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act, and that the members of our board of directors are control persons under Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act. The Clough Action seeks, among other things, an injunction enjoining the merger from closing, rescission of the merger or rescissory damages if the merger is consummated, and an award of attorneys’ and experts’ fees.

No Rights of Appraisal for HGV Stockholders

Current holders of our common stock will not have any rights of appraisal as a result of the merger.

 

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THE MERGER AGREEMENT

The following section summarizes material provisions of the merger agreement, which is included in this proxy statement as Annex A and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The rights and obligations of HGV and Diamond are governed by the express terms and conditions of the merger agreement and not by this summary or any other information contained in this proxy statement. Our stockholders are urged to read the merger agreement carefully and in its entirety as well as this proxy statement before making any decision regarding the stock issuance proposal.

The merger agreement is included in this proxy statement to provide you with information on its terms and is not intended to provide any factual information about HGV or Diamond. The merger agreement contains representations and warranties by each of the parties to the merger agreement. These representations and warranties:

 

   

have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the merger agreement;

 

   

may not be intended as statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk between the parties if the statements therein prove to be inaccurate (and, accordingly, investors and others should not rely on the representations and warranties, or any descriptions thereof, as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of Diamond, HGV or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates);

 

   

have been qualified by certain disclosures that were made between the parties in connection with the negotiation of the merger agreement, which disclosures are not reflected in the merger agreement itself; and

 

   

may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material by you or other investors.

Accordingly, the representations and warranties and other provisions of the merger agreement should not be read alone, but instead should be read together with the information provided elsewhere in this proxy statement and in the documents incorporated by reference into this proxy statement. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information and Incorporation by Reference” beginning on page 152 of this proxy statement.

This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the merger agreement.

The Merger

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the merger agreement and in accordance with the DGCL, at the effective time, Diamond will merge with and into HGV Borrower, the separate corporate existence of Diamond will cease, and HGV Borrower will continue as the surviving company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGV. The merger will have the effects set forth in the merger agreement and the relevant provisions of the DGCL.

Completion of the Merger

The closing of the merger will take place electronically through the exchange of documents via e-mail or facsimile, at 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the third business day following the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing described below under “Closing Conditions” (other than those conditions that by their terms are to be satisfied at the closing of the merger, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver of those conditions at the closing) or at such other date, time and place as HGV and Diamond may mutually agree in writing provided, that if the marketing period has not ended on or prior to the time the closing of the merger would have otherwise been required to occur pursuant to the foregoing, the closing will be delayed until the earlier to occur of (x) any business day before or during the marketing period as may be specified by HGV on no less than three business days’ prior written notice to Diamond and (y) three business days following the final day of the marketing

 

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period, subject in each case to the continued satisfaction or waiver of all of the conditions to closing described below under “Closing Conditions” (other than those conditions that by their terms are to be satisfied at the closing of the merger, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver of those conditions at the closing). Concurrently with the closing, Diamond and HGV Borrower will cause a certificate of merger relating to the merger to be executed, acknowledged and filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as provided in Section 264 of the DGCL and Section 18-209 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act. The merger will become effective at the time the certificate of merger with respect to the merger is filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware or at such later time as may be agreed by HGV and Diamond in writing and specified in the certificate of merger.

Merger Consideration

Pursuant and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the merger agreement, at the effective time, among other things:

 

   

each share of Diamond common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time will cease to be outstanding, shall automatically be cancelled and cease to exist and, other than Appraisal Shares (as defined in the merger agreement), treasury shares and shares owned directly or indirectly by Diamond, be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive the merger consideration, calculated in the manner set forth in the merger agreement and allocated among the various sellers based on their respective ownership interests in Diamond in accordance with the merger agreement;

 

   

each in-the-money option, whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to the option consideration (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option); and

 

   

all Diamond options outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that are not in-the-money options will (i) to the extent not then vested, become fully vested as of immediately prior to the effective time (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such option) and (ii) automatically be cancelled and terminated at the effective time without payment therefor, and, to such extent, will have no further force or effect.

Conversion and Exchange of Shares of Diamond Common Stock

At the effective time, shares of Diamond common stock will cease to be outstanding, shall automatically be cancelled and cease to exist, and each holder thereof shall have the right to receive the merger consideration. HGV will deposit (or cause to be deposited) with the exchange agent, evidence of book-entry shares representing a number of shares of our common stock equal to (i) the aggregate merger consideration issuable in respect of shares of Diamond common stock pursuant to the merger agreement plus (ii) the aggregate option consideration issuable in respect of in-the-money options, as well as cash in an amount sufficient to pay any cash payments to be made in lieu of fractional shares.

Each of the parties to the merger agreement and the exchange agent will be entitled to deduct and withhold from amounts otherwise payable pursuant to the merger agreement those amounts that it is required to deduct and withhold from such payments under applicable tax law.

Representations and Warranties

The merger agreement contains representations and warranties made by Diamond to HGV and HGV Borrower, on the one hand, and by HGV and HGV Borrower to Diamond, on the other hand. Such

 

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representations and warranties (i) were made solely for the benefit of the parties to the merger agreement; (ii) are subject to limitations agreed upon by the parties; (iii) are not intended to be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating contractual risk among the parties; (iv) may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to the parties that differ from what might be viewed as material to stockholders; (v) are qualified by information in confidential disclosure schedules delivered to HGV by Diamond, on the one hand, and Diamond by HGV, on the other hand, concurrently with the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, which contain information that modify, qualify and create exceptions to the representations and warranties set forth in the merger agreement; and (vi) were made only as of the date of the merger agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the merger agreement. Accordingly, investors and others should not rely on the representations and warranties, or any descriptions thereof, as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of Diamond, HGV or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates.

Diamond’s representations and warranties relate to, among other things:

 

   

organization, qualification and power;

 

   

authority with respect to the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, and the due and valid execution and delivery and enforceability of the merger agreement;

 

   

absence of conflicts with, or violations of, organizational documents, other contracts and applicable laws;

 

   

required regulatory filings and consents and approvals of governmental entities;

 

   

capital structure;

 

   

indebtedness;

 

   

financial statements and undisclosed liabilities;

 

   

absence of certain changes and events during certain specified time periods prior to the date of the execution of the merger agreement;

 

   

compliance with applicable laws and permits;

 

   

litigation;

 

   

employee benefits matters and employment and labor matters;

 

   

tax matters;

 

   

insurance;

 

   

title to, sufficiency and condition of assets;

 

   

inapplicability of state takeover statutes and anti-takeover devices;

 

   

intellectual property, information technology systems, privacy and data protection matters;

 

   

material contracts;

 

   

environmental matters;

 

   

compliance with applicable anti-corruption and trade sanctions laws;

 

   

real property;

 

   

certain previous securitization transactions;

 

   

the vote of Diamond’s stockholders required to approve the merger and the recommendation of Diamond’s board of directors;

 

   

opinions from financial advisors;

 

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broker’s fees payable in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;

 

   

affiliate transactions;

 

   

certain matters related to COVID-19; and

 

   

timeshare and exchange matters.

HGV’s representations and warranties relate to, among other things:

 

   

organization, qualification and power;

 

   

authority with respect to the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, and the due and valid execution and delivery and enforceability of the merger agreement;

 

   

absence of conflicts with, or violations of, organizational documents, other contracts and applicable laws;

 

   

required regulatory filings and consents and approvals of governmental entities;

 

   

capital structure;

 

   

SEC reports;

 

   

litigation;

 

   

employee benefits matters and employment and labor matters;

 

   

tax matters;

 

   

financial statements and undisclosed liabilities;

 

   

absence of certain changes and events during a specified time period prior to the date of execution of the merger agreement;

 

   

inapplicability of state takeover statutes and anti-takeover devices compliance with applicable laws and permits;

 

   

the ownership and operation of HGV Borrower;

 

   

timeshare and exchange matters.

 

   

broker’s fees payable in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;

 

   

affiliate transactions;

 

   

solvency; and

 

   

the debt financing in connection with the merger.

Many of the representations and warranties in the merger agreement are qualified by a “materiality” or “material adverse effect” standard (that is, they will not be deemed to be untrue or incorrect unless their failure to be true or correct, individually or in the aggregate, would, as the case may be, be material or have a material adverse effect). For purposes of the merger agreement, a “material adverse effect” means, with respect to either party, any event, change, occurrence, development or effect that, individually or taken as a whole with all other events, changes, occurrences, developments or effects, would, or is reasonably expected to, (i) prevent, materially delay or materially impede the performance by Diamond or the sellers, or HGV, as applicable, of their obligations under the merger agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, or (ii) have a material adverse effect on the business, properties, financial condition or results of operations of Diamond and its subsidiaries or HGV and its subsidiaries, as applicable, taken as a whole, other than, in the case of the foregoing clause (ii) only, any event, change, occurrence, development or effect (by itself

 

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or taken together with any and all other events, changes, occurrences, developments or effects) constituting or resulting from:

 

   

changes or developments in general economic, business or geopolitical conditions or financial, debt, capital, currency or securities markets (including changes in interest rates or exchange rates);

 

   

general changes or developments in any of the industries in which such parties operate, as applicable;

 

   

any weather, meteorological conditions or climate, storms, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions or natural disasters, epidemics or pandemics (including COVID-19) or any escalation or worsening of any of the foregoing;

 

   

changes after March 10, 2021 in any applicable laws or applicable accounting regulations or principles (including GAAP) or, in each case, any change in the interpretations thereof or the adoption or addition of any new laws or the rescission, expiration or retirement of any current laws;

 

   

any outbreak or escalation of hostilities or any acts of war (whether or not declared) or terrorism;

 

   

any work stoppages, layoff, furlough or reduced work schedule of employees or independent contractors of such parties, as applicable, resulting from, arising out of or otherwise related to COVID-19 (and the impact of any associated shutdown, shelter in place or non-essential business order or other similar measures mandated by any applicable governmental authority);

 

   

the execution and delivery of the merger agreement (other than in the case of certain representations made by such parties, as applicable) or announcement or pendency of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby; or

 

   

any failure by such parties, as applicable, to meet its internal or published projections, budgets, plans or forecasts of its revenues, earnings or other financial performance or results of operations (it being understood that the underlying facts or occurrences giving rise to or contributing to such failure, not otherwise excluded by the exceptions set forth in this definition, shall be taken into consideration when determining whether a material adverse effect has occurred or is reasonably expected to occur),

provided, that with respect to the first six bullets above, such matter will only be excluded to the extent such matter does not have a disproportionate effect on such parties, as applicable, taken as a whole, relative to other participants in the industries or markets in which such parties operate, as applicable (in which case solely the incremental disproportionate effect may be taken into account in determining whether there has been a material adverse effect).

Conduct of Business

Each of Diamond and HGV has undertaken certain covenants in the merger agreement restricting the conduct of their respective businesses between the date of the merger agreement and the effective time. In general, each of Diamond and HGV has agreed to, and to cause our and their respective subsidiaries to, carry on their respective businesses in the ordinary course of business and use commercially reasonable efforts to preserve intact their business organizations, preserve in all material respects their relationships with customers, suppliers, governmental authorities and other persons with which it has material business relations or regulatory relations, keep available the services of their current officers, employees and consultants. However, each of Diamond and HGV may deviate from the ordinary course covenants if, among other things, it determines reasonably and in good faith that deviation is necessary to protect the health and safety of its employees, customers or other individuals with whom it has direct business dealings or to respond to the direct impact of COVID-19 on it.

Each of Diamond and HGV has also agreed to various specific restrictions relating to the conduct of its business, including with respect to the below (subject in each case to certain exceptions, including those specified below or in the merger agreement or disclosed in the confidential disclosure schedules provided to the other party).

 

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In the case of Diamond:

 

   

amending, adopting any amendment to or otherwise changing or modifying Diamond’s organizational documents;

 

   

except for issuances of Diamond common stock resulting from the exercise or settlement of options outstanding as of the date of the merger agreement, issuing, delivering, granting, authorizing, pledging, disposing of, or encumbering or selling, any shares of capital stock, voting securities or other ownership interests of any shares of capital stock, voting securities, equity interests or other ownership interests (including stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units, phantom stock or similar instruments) of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries, or any options, warrants, convertible securities or other rights of any kind to acquire or receive, or that are convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for, any such shares of capital stock, voting securities, equity interests or other ownership interests (including stock appreciation rights, phantom stock or similar instruments);

 

   

permitting any leakage (as defined in the merger agreement), or otherwise declaring, setting aside, establishing a record date for, authorizing, making or paying any dividends or other distributions (whether in cash, stock, property or otherwise) with respect to any of its capital stock, except for dividends, distributions or other payments by any direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Diamond to Diamond or any other wholly-owned subsidiary of Diamond;

 

   

(a) adopting a plan or agreement of complete or partial liquidation, dissolution, merger, consolidation, restructuring, reorganization or other recapitalization, (b) reclassifying, combining, splitting, reverse splitting, consolidating, recapitalizing, subdividing or redeeming, or purchasing or otherwise acquiring, directly or indirectly, any of its capital stock or other ownership interests (or any warrants, options or other rights to acquire the foregoing) or consummating or authorizing or reinstating any other similar transaction with respect to its capital stock or ownership interests (or any warrants, options or other rights to acquire the foregoing) or (c) making any other change with respect to its capital structure;

 

   

acquiring (whether by merger, consolidation or acquisition of stock or assets or otherwise), or making any investment in any interest in, any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, other business organization or division thereof or any properties or assets (including vacation ownership interests (as defined in the merger agreement)) other than (a) purchases of inventory (including vacation ownership interests) or other assets in the ordinary course of business or pursuant to contracts in existence as of March 10, 2021 and made available to HGV prior to such date, (b) acquisitions or investments in an amount that does not exceed $3,000,000 individually or $6,000,000 in the aggregate, or enter into any joint venture, material strategic alliance, exclusive dealing, noncompetition or similar contract or arrangement, (c) in connection with a securitization transaction (as defined in the merger agreement) in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice or (d) in connection with a permitted securitization and warehouse activity (as defined in the merger agreement);

 

   

selling, transferring or otherwise disposing of (whether by merger, consolidation or disposition of stock or assets or otherwise) any corporation, partnership or other business organization or division thereof or otherwise selling, leasing, assigning, licensing, transferring, exchanging, swapping, abandoning, mortgaging, pledging, hypothecating, granting any security interest in, granting an easement with respect to, or otherwise encumbering or restricting the Company Real Property (as defined in the merger agreement) or the use thereof (including securitizations), or subject to, incur or create any lien (other than permitted liens), allow to lapse or expire, or dispose of, in a single transaction or series of transactions, any material assets (including Company Real Property and vacation ownership interests), rights or properties, in each case, other than (a) sales or dispositions of inventory (including vacation ownership interests) in the ordinary course of business; (b) sales or dispositions in an amount that does not exceed $3,000,000 individually or $6,000,000 in the aggregate; (c) non-exclusive licenses in the ordinary course of business; (d) dispositions, transfers, assignments, substitutions or removals of vacation ownership interests from or into any multisite trust; (e) sales, pledges, contributions or other transfers of receivables in connection with a securitization transaction in the ordinary course of

 

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business and consistent with past practice or (f) in connection with a permitted securitization and warehouse activity;

 

   

entering into any contract that would be a Company Material Contract (as defined in the merger agreement) if entered into prior to March 10, 2021, or renew any Company Material Contract other than any such contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business (including contracts with customers, vendors or clients) and in connection with a permitted securitization and warehouse activity;

 

   

modifying, amending, terminating, consenting to the termination of, or allowing the expiration of, or waiving any material rights or obligations under, (a) any Company Material Contract (including any Existing Company Loan Document and any Company Real Property Lease (each as defined in the merger agreement)), (b) any contract with a related party (including the sellers and any of their respective affiliates), or (c) any contract which if entered into prior to March 10, 2021 would be a Company Material Contract or a contract with a related party, as applicable, if it had been in effect as of March 10, 2021, in each case, other than (1) any such contract that provides a commitment by (x) Diamond or any of its subsidiaries to make to a third party or (y) a third party to make to Diamond or any of its subsidiaries, in each case, payments of less than $750,000 in the aggregate annually, (2) any Company Real Property Lease that provides for a current base rent equal to or less than $83,000 per month and a term of less than two years, (3) for contracts relating to the commercial operations of the Company’s business, such actions as are in the ordinary course of business, (4) in connection with any permitted securitization and warehouse activity or (5) any immaterial amendment;

 

   

incurring or assuming any indebtedness for borrowed money or issue any debt securities or assuming, guaranteeing or endorsing, or otherwise become responsible for, the obligations of any person, or making any loans or advances other than (a) with respect to the Company 2021 Securitization Transaction and the transactions contemplated by the warehouse commitment letters (each, as defined in the merger agreement), (b) indebtedness for borrowed money, including borrowings under existing revolving credit facilities, that does not exceed $10,000,000 individually or $20,000,000 in the aggregate, (c) borrowings under the Diamond warehouse facilities in the ordinary course of business, which borrowings will be accompanied by notice to HGV by electronic mail to the extent such borrowings exceed in the aggregate $20,000,000 or any increment of $5,000,000 in excess thereof, (d) borrowings between or among Diamond or any of its wholly-owned subsidiaries or (e) indebtedness for insurance premium financings in the ordinary course of business that does not exceed $25,000,000 in the aggregate;

 

   

making or authorizing any new capital expenditures in excess of or otherwise inconsistent with Diamond’s capital expenditure budget as set forth in Diamond’s confidential disclosure schedules, other than such capital expenditures that do not exceed such budget by more than $1,000,000 individually or $5,000,000 in the aggregate;

 

   

except to the extent required by applicable law or any employee plan (as defined in the merger agreement) in effect as of March 10, 2021 and disclosed on Diamond’s disclosure schedules, (a)(1) increasing the compensation, bonus or benefits payable or provided to any employee, officer, director or other individual service providers of Diamond or its subsidiaries, other than for compensation increases for employees with annual total target compensation less than $175,000, (2) granting or provide any equity-based compensation (including options or restricted stock units) or additional rights to, or enter into any agreement providing for, severance, retention, stay bonus, change in control, termination or other similar payment or benefit to any current or former employees, officers, directors or other individual service providers of Diamond and its subsidiaries, (3) loaning or advancing any amount to, any current or former employee, officer, director or other individual service providers of Diamond or its subsidiaries (excluding advances of routine business expenses to in the ordinary course of business), or (4) granting or agree to grant any right to reimbursement, indemnification or payment for any taxes, including any taxes incurred under Section 409A or 4999 of the Code, (b) hiring,

 

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engaging or terminating (other than terminations for “cause”) any individual other than (1) a person whose annual total target compensation is less than $175,000 (or any person, who if hired, would not have an annual total target compensation that is less than $175,000) or (2) as a replacement hire receiving substantially similar terms of employment to such replaced employee, (c) amending or terminating any, enter into or adopt, or otherwise make any changes to any Employee Plan (or any other plan, trust, fund, policy, agreement or arrangement that would be an Employee Plan if in effect on March 10, 2021), (d) taking any action to fund the payment of compensation or benefits under any Employee Plan, or (e) taking any action to amend or waive any performance or vesting criteria or accelerate the vesting, exercisability, funding or payment or benefit under any Employee Plan (including in respect of options), except as required by the merger agreement;

 

   

entering into any Company Real Property Lease, or failing to exercise any rights of renewal with respect to any Company Leased Real Property;

 

   

(a) adopting or making any change to any material method of tax accounting or annual tax accounting period, except as required by GAAP, (b) making, changing or revoking any material tax election, (c) surrendering, agreeing, settling or compromising any tax audit, examination or proceeding, (d) to extend the statute of limitations in respect of any material amount of taxes (other than pursuant to extensions of the due date for the filing of an income tax return that do not require consent of a taxing authority), (e) filing or causing to be filed any amended material tax return, (f) initiating any voluntary disclosure with, or request any ruling from, a taxing authority with respect to a material amount of taxes, (g) entering into any closing agreement with any taxing authority with respect to any material tax, or (h) surrendering any right to claim a material tax refund;

 

   

waiving, releasing, assigning, settling or compromising, or entering into or committing to, any agreement with respect to, any Action, demand for appraisal or other claim, liability or obligation, whether absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise against Diamond or any of its subsidiaries or any of their respective directors or officers, other than (a) in the ordinary course of business and (b) where the amount paid or to be paid does not exceed $250,000 individually (including any single or aggregated claims arising out of the same or similar facts, events or circumstances) or $1,200,000 in the aggregate, in each of clauses (a) and (b), only without the imposition of equitable relief on, any ongoing obligations (other than the payment of money and customary confidentiality obligations relating thereto) on, or the admission of wrongdoing by, any of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries or any of their respective officers or directors;

 

   

allowing any material Company Permit (as defined in the merger agreement) to expire or lapse, or take any action (or fail to take any action) that would reasonably be expected to terminate, invalidate, impair or be a breach of any material Company Permit (including any material permit of any governmental authority);

 

   

causing any material amendment to any Company Offering Documents of any vacation club association (“VCA”), vacation club or vacation ownership property (other than with respect to any amendments that do not increase the obligations or waive or release any rights of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries under such documents) (each, as defined in the merger agreement);

 

   

allowing any registrations of a vacation club to lapse, or failing to keep such registrations current in accordance with applicable law;

 

   

permitting to lapse or fail to renew material insurance policies covering any properties of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries and material assets under substantially similar or better terms and conditions as such Diamond entity’s policies as of March 10, 2021 with respect to such properties or take any action that would reasonably be expected to invalidate or give cause for cancellation of any insurance policy, other than with respect to any such insurance policy that is no longer available on commercially reasonable terms (provided that, to the extent reasonably practicable under the circumstances, Diamond will give us reasonable prior notice of such facts and such lapse, failure to renew or cancellation);

 

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accelerating the collection of or discount any accounts receivable, delaying the payment of accounts payable or defer expenses, reducing inventories or otherwise increasing cash on hand, except in the ordinary course of business;

 

   

making any material adverse change to any policy of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries regarding personal data or the security of the IT systems used by Diamond or any of its subsidiaries, except as required by applicable law;

 

   

taking any action which would trigger any notification or other requirements of the WARN Act, including any “plant closing” or “mass layoff”;

 

   

voluntarily recognizing a labor union, works council or similar labor organization or entering into, terminating, extending or materially modifying any collective bargaining agreement;

 

   

(i) initiating or consenting to any zoning reclassification of any portion of the Company Real Property or seek any variance under any existing zoning ordinance or (ii) using or permitting the use of any portion of the Company Real Property in any manner that would reasonably be expected to result in such use becoming a non-conforming use under any zoning ordinance or any other applicable land use law, rule or regulation;

 

   

taking any action or exercising any of their votes, or failing to take any action or failing to exercise any of their votes, within a non-profit VCA or a non-profit VOA (each, as defined in the merger agreement) that would materially and adversely affect the rights, control, powers, and privileges of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries under the Company Offering Documents or a Company Management Agreement (as defined in the merger agreement), whether by statute or otherwise;

 

   

committing or suffering any material physical waste of any of the real property or making any change in the use of the real property which will in any way materially increase the risk of fire or other hazard arising out of the operation of the real property; and

 

   

agreeing, resolving, authorizing or committing to do or take any of the actions described in the foregoing.

In the case of HGV:

 

   

amending, adopting any amendment to or otherwise changing or modifying our organizational documents;

 

   

issuing, delivering, granting, authorizing, pledging, disposing of, or encumbering or selling, any shares of capital stock, voting securities or other ownership interests of any shares of capital stock, voting securities, equity interests or other ownership interests (including stock appreciation rights, phantom stock or similar instruments) of HGV or any of our subsidiaries, or any options, warrants, convertible securities or other rights of any kind to acquire or receive, or that are convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for, any such shares of capital stock, voting securities, equity interests or other ownership interests (including stock appreciation rights, phantom stock or similar instruments) other than the issuance of shares of our common stock pursuant to the exercise or settlement, as applicable, of equity or equity-based awards granted pursuant to the HGV stock plans which are outstanding as of March 10, 2021 in accordance with the terms of such instrument;

 

   

declaring, setting aside, establishing a record date for, authorizing, making or paying any dividends or other distributions (whether in cash, stock, property or otherwise) with respect to any of its capital stock, except for dividends, distributions or other payments by any direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiary of HGV to HGV or any other wholly owned subsidiary of HGV;

 

   

(a) adopting a plan or agreement of complete or partial liquidation, dissolution, merger, consolidation, restructuring, reorganization or other recapitalization, (b) reclassifying, combining, splitting, reverse splitting, consolidating, recapitalizing, subdividing or redeeming, repurchasing or purchasing or

 

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otherwise acquiring, directly or indirectly, any of its capital stock or other ownership interests (or any warrants, options or other rights to acquire the foregoing) or consummate or authorize or reinstate any other similar transaction with respect to our capital stock or ownership interests (or any warrants, options or other rights to acquire the foregoing) or (c) making any other change with respect to our capital structure;

 

   

selling, transferring or otherwise disposing of (whether by merger, consolidation or disposition of stock or assets or otherwise) any corporation, partnership or other business organization or division thereof or otherwise selling, leasing, assigning, licensing, transferring, exchanging, swapping, abandoning, mortgaging, pledging, hypothecating, granting any security interest in, granting an easement with respect to, or otherwise encumbering or restricting the Parent Real Property (as defined in the merger agreement) or the use thereof (including securitizations), or subject to, incur or create any lien (other than permitted liens), allow to lapse or expire, or dispose of, in a single transaction or series of transactions, any material assets (including Parent Real Property and vacation ownership interests), rights or properties, in each case, other than (a) sales or dispositions of inventory (including vacation ownership interests) equipment or other assets in the ordinary course of business; (b) any liens that do not impair the value of the asset on which such liens are placed or in connection with indebtedness for borrowed money permitted by the immediately following paragraph, (c) sales or dispositions of assets marked as available for sale and as described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020; (d) non-exclusive licenses entered into in the ordinary course of business; or (e) sales, transfers, contributions, assignments or pledges of receivables in connection with a HGV securitization transaction in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice;

 

   

incurring or assuming any indebtedness for borrowed money or issuing any debt securities or assuming, guaranteeing or endorsing, or otherwise becoming responsible for, the indebtedness for borrowed money of any person, or make any loans or advances, other than (a) such indebtedness for borrowed money that does not exceed $30,000,000 in the aggregate, (b) in the ordinary course of business, including in connection with HGV securitization transactions, (c) under credit facilities or securitizations of HGV or any of its subsidiaries existing, and in accordance with their terms, as of March 10, 2021, (d) borrowings between or among HGV entities, (e) indebtedness contemplated by the debt commitment letter described in the merger agreement(or any securities issued in lieu thereof), (f) to refinance indebtedness of HGV or its subsidiaries under certain agreements as described in the merger agreement and (g) to refinance certain outstanding indebtedness; and

 

   

agreeing, resolving, authorizing or committing to do or take any of the actions described in the foregoing.

No Solicitation of Alternative Proposals

Diamond has agreed that it will not and will not authorize or permit any of its affiliates or any of its or their officers, directors, employees, representatives, consultants, financial advisors, attorneys, accountants or other agents to, directly or indirectly solicit, encourage, facilitate, engage in discussions or negotiations with, or provide any information or access to or enter into any agreement with any person (other than HGV and/or its respective affiliates) concerning any direct or indirect sale of any of Diamond’s equity securities, any merger of Diamond, any direct or indirect sale of more than 10% of the assets of Diamond and its subsidiaries or any similar transaction involving Diamond and its subsidiaries.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the sellers and Diamond may respond to any unsolicited proposal regarding an acquisition transaction solely by indicating that the sellers and Diamond are subject to an exclusivity agreement and are unable to provide any information related to Diamond or entertain any proposals or offers or engage in any negotiations or discussions concerning an acquisition transaction for as long as the merger agreement remains in effect.

 

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Change in HGV Board Recommendation

We have agreed under the merger agreement to, through our board of directors, recommend to the HGV stockholders they approve the issuance of shares of our common stock as consideration for the merger, and to include such recommendations in this proxy statement.

The merger agreement provides that, subject to the exceptions described below, our board of directors will not withdraw, modify or qualify its approval or recommendation of the merger, the merger agreement or the issuance of the shares of our common stock in connection with the merger.

At any time before obtaining the stockholder approval, our board of directors may, if it reasonably determines in good faith, after consultation with outside counsel. that the failure to do so would violate its fiduciary obligations under applicable law, effect an adverse recommendation change in response to any material event or circumstance with respect to HGV and its subsidiaries that (i) improves or would be reasonably expected to improve the business, financial condition or continuing results of operations of HGV, (ii) is and was not known or reasonably foreseeable (with respect to substance or timing) by HGV or our board of directors as of the date of the merger agreement and (iii) first becomes known to HGV or our board of directors prior to the time the stockholder approval is obtained; provided that in no event shall any of the following, individually or in the aggregate, constitute or be taken into account in such determination: (A) any event, fact, change, effect, development, circumstance or occurrence (I) resulting from or arising out of any breach of the merger agreement by HGV or HGV Borrower, (II) that involves or relates to any proposal or offer from any person (other than the sellers or Diamond) relating to any direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of a business, any tender offer or exchange offer, or any merger, division, reorganization, consolidation, share exchange, business combination, recapitalization, liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction, in each case involving HGV (or any of its subsidiaries) that is not an Acquisition Proposal (as defined in the merger agreement) or any inquiry or communications or matters relating thereto or (III) that is set forth in clause (A) of clause (ii) of the definition of Parent material adverse effect (as defined in the merger agreement); (B) the fact, in and of itself, that HGV meets or exceeds any internal or published forecasts or projections for any period, or any changes after March 10, 2021 in the market price or trading volume of our common stock; (C) the reasonably foreseeable consequences of the announcement of the merger agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby; or (D) any event, fact, change, effect, development, circumstance or occurrence relating to or involving Diamond or any of its subsidiaries.

Efforts to Obtain Required Stockholder Vote

We agreed to hold a special meeting of its stockholders as soon as reasonably practicable following the clearance of this proxy statement by the SEC for the purpose of obtaining the stockholder approval of the stock issuance proposal. Subject to the ability of our board of directors to make an adverse change of recommendation, we must, through our board of directors, recommend to our stockholders the approval of the stock issuance proposal. Our board of directors unanimously determined that the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement are advisable and in the best interests of us and our stockholders; authorized and approved the merger agreement, the issuance of shares of our common stock in the merger and the other transactions contemplated thereby by a unanimous vote of our directors; and adopted resolutions directing that the stock issuance proposal be submitted to our stockholders for their consideration. See the section entitled “The Merger – Reasons for the Merger: Recommendation of Our Board of Directors” beginning on page 55 of this proxy statement.

Efforts to Complete the Merger

Subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, HGV and Diamond have each agreed to use their reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable law or otherwise to consummate and make effective the

 

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transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and the ancillary agreements as promptly as practicable, including to:

 

   

obtain from governmental authorities and other persons all expiration of applicable waiting periods, consents, approvals, authorizations, qualifications and orders as are necessary for the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and the ancillary agreements;

 

   

promptly (and with respect to any applicable filings under the HSR Act, in no event later than 10 business days after the date of the merger agreement) make all necessary filings, and thereafter make any other required submissions, with respect to the merger agreement required under the HSR Act or any other applicable law; and

 

   

obtain all necessary consents, approvals or waivers, and any necessary or appropriate financing arrangements, from third parties.

Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the parties must use reasonable best efforts to (i) resolve such objections, if any, as may be asserted by any governmental authority with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby and (ii) take all such actions as may be required to obtain all antitrust approvals, including such action that would (A) require the divestiture of any businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, of HGV, Diamond, or any of their respective Subsidiaries or affiliates, (B) limit HGV’s freedom of action with respect to, or its ability to consolidate and control, Diamond and its subsidiaries or affiliates or any of their businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, or any of HGV’s or its subsidiaries or affiliates’ other businesses, properties, rights or assets, or portions thereof, or (C) limit HGV’s ability to acquire or hold, or exercise full rights of ownership with respect to, HGV and its subsidiaries or affiliates, provided that (x) such action is conditioned on consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and (y) such action would not require HGV to sell, divest, assign, dispose of or hold separate any businesses, properties, rights or assets of HGV, Diamond or their respective affiliates and subsidiaries, or agree to, or enter into any conditions or mitigation agreements or other remedies with respect to, any businesses, properties, rights or assets of HGV, Diamond or their respective affiliates and subsidiaries, that (together with all other businesses, properties, rights and assets that are subject to antitrust remedies) generated more than $75,000,000 in revenues during the parties’ respective most recently completed fiscal years.

D&O Indemnification, Exculpation and Insurance

The merger agreement requires HGV, for a period of six years following the closing, to indemnify, defend and hold harmless each former or present director or officer of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries, each referred to as an indemnified party, against all losses, damages, liabilities, deficiencies, claims, interest, awards, judgments, penalties, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in investigating, preparing or defending the foregoing) arising out of or relating to any threatened or actual claim, action, suit or proceeding arising out of or relating in whole or in part to the fact that such person is or was such an officer or director or for any acts or omission in the indemnified party’s capacity as such an officer or director before the effective time, in each case to the maximum extent permitted or required under applicable law and to the same extent as such indemnified parties were indemnified as of the date of the merger agreement under the organizational documents of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries, or any indemnification agreements in existence as of the date of the merger agreement. The merger agreement also requires HGV to maintain for six years following the Closing Date either the current policies of directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and fiduciary liability insurance currently maintained by Diamond and any of its subsidiaries or provide substitute policies for not less than the existing coverage and having other terms not less favorable to the insured persons, except that in no event will HGV be required to pay with respect to such insurance policies (or substitute insurance policies) for any one policy year more than 300% of the annual premium payable by Diamond as of the date of the merger agreement. The merger agreement also provides that at HGV’s election, Diamond shall obtain a six-year “tail” policy under its existing directors and officers insurance policy in lieu of the foregoing if and to the extent it may be obtained for an amount not to exceed the maximum aggregate amount otherwise payable for such six-year period pursuant to the previous sentence.

 

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Financing

HGV and HGV Borrower have agreed to use reasonable best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions and do, or cause to be done, as promptly as possible, all things necessary, proper or advisable to arrange the debt financing for the merger, including to: (a) satisfy on a timely basis all conditions applicable to HGV Borrower, (b) negotiate and enter into definitive agreements with respect thereto on the terms and conditions contemplated by the commitment letter (including any related flex provisions) or on other terms that would not reasonably be expected to materially delay (taking into account the expected timing of the 15-consecutive business day marketing period (as defined in the merger agreement)) or adversely affect the ability of HGV Borrower, from a conditionality or enforceability perspective, to consummate the transactions contemplated thereby and (c) consummate the debt financing on or prior to the closing.

HGV shall give the seller representative prompt notice (and in any event no later than three (3) business days following) (i) of any actual breach or default under the commitment letter of which HGV or HGV Borrower becomes aware and (ii) of any termination, repudiation, rescission, cancellation or expiration of the commitment letter. HGV will keep Diamond and the seller representative informed on a reasonably current basis in reasonable detail of the status of its efforts to arrange the debt financing or any alternate financing including providing executed copies of the definitive documents related to the debt financing or any alternate financing. If any portion of the debt financing becomes unavailable on the terms and conditions contemplated in the commitment letter, HGV will (i) promptly notify Diamond and (ii) use its reasonable best efforts to obtain alternative financing, including from alternative sources on commercially reasonable terms (as defined in the merger agreement) as promptly as practicable following the occurrence of such event, and such alternative financing will not impose any new or additional condition or otherwise expand any condition to draw and other terms that would reasonably be expected to affect the availability thereof at the closing.

HGV and HGV Borrower shall (1) comply in all material respects with the commitment letter and each definitive agreement with respect thereto, (2) upon satisfaction of the conditions thereunder, enforce in all material respects their rights under the commitment letter and such definitive agreements, and (3) not permit any amendment or modification to be made to, or any waiver of any provision or remedy under, the commitment letter or any such definitive agreement or the fee letter referred to in the commitment letter without the prior written consent of the seller representative in a manner that (i) would prevent or materially delay the timing of the funding of the commitments thereunder or make the timely funding of the debt financing or the satisfaction of the conditions to obtaining the debt financing materially less likely to occur or (ii) adversely impact the ability of HGV to enforce its rights under the commitment letter or the definitive agreements with respect thereto, or to consummate the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.

Prior to the closing, Diamond has agreed to, and agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to cause each of its and its subsidiaries’ respective representatives, in each case, to cooperate with HGV in connection with the debt financing as may be reasonably requested by HGV, including by:

 

   

furnishing HGV and the debt financing sources with the required information (as defined in the merger agreement), any updates thereto as may be necessary for such required information to remain compliant (as defined in the merger agreement);

 

   

participating (and causing senior management and using commercially reasonable efforts to cause representatives and advisors to participate) in a reasonable number of meetings (including customary one-on-one meetings), presentations, road shows, drafting sessions, due diligence sessions (including using commercially reasonable efforts to cause its independent auditors to participate therein) and sessions with ratings agencies, in each case, at reasonable times and with reasonable notice in connection with the debt financing;

 

   

assisting HGV and the debt financing sources in the preparation of confidential information memoranda, lender presentations and similar marketing documents, investor presentations (including “roadshow” or investor meeting slides), offering memoranda and private placement memoranda (including under Rule 144A) and materials for rating agency presentations;

 

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executing and delivering any guarantee, other definitive financing documents, or other certificates or documents as may be reasonably requested by HGV and as may be necessary and customary in connection with the debt financing; provided that all such guarantees and other documents with respect to Diamond, its subsidiaries and their respective assets shall be authorized and become effective only at, or as of, the closing;

 

   

taking all corporate actions, subject to the occurrence of the closing, reasonably requested by HGV that are necessary to permit the consummation of the debt financing and to permit the proceeds thereof to be made available on the Closing Date to consummate the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;

 

   

providing customary authorization and representation letters to the debt financing sources, executed by or on behalf of Diamond, authorizing the distribution of information to prospective lenders or investors and containing customary representations to the debt financing sources;

 

   

assisting with HGV’s preparation of (and using commercially reasonable efforts to cause the independent auditors of Diamond to assist with HGV’s preparation of) pro forma financial information for HGV;

 

   

using commercially reasonable efforts to cause the independent auditors of Diamond to provide reasonable and customary assistance and cooperation in connection with the debt financing, including using commercially reasonable efforts to cause such independent auditors to provide consents to the use of their audit reports and deliver customary “comfort letters” for a Rule 144A placement of securities;

 

   

assisting HGV in procuring public corporate ratings and corporate family ratings and public ratings of the facilities and securities contemplated by the debt financing;

 

   

cooperating with the debt financing sources’ due diligence in connection with the debt financing, to the extent customary and reasonable;

 

   

providing, at least three (3) business days prior to the Closing Date, all documentation and other information as is required by applicable “know your customer”, beneficial ownership and anti-money laundering rules and regulations including the USA PATRIOT Act to the extent requested at least eight (8) business days prior to the Closing Date;

 

   

reasonably cooperating to effect the prepayment, redemption, termination or satisfaction and discharge of Diamond’s existing secured indenture (and, if HGV notifies Diamond that it is so electing, Diamond’s existing unsecured indenture), including by delivering or facilitating the delivery of notices of redemption for the notes issued pursuant to the applicable indenture in accordance with the terms of such indenture (and related officer’s certificates) and facilitating and effecting on the Closing Date the satisfaction and discharge of the applicable indenture and the release of guarantees and, if applicable, liens thereunder in accordance with the terms thereof; provided that (x) any notice of redemption given prior to the Closing Date shall be conditioned on the closing and (y) nothing shall require Diamond or any of its subsidiaries to pay or deposit any amounts necessary for Diamond to redeem the notes issued under the indentures; and

 

   

cooperating with, and taking all actions reasonably requested by, HGV in order to facilitate the termination and payoff of Diamond’s existing credit facility and the release of liens thereunder, to be effective no earlier than the Closing Date;

provided that such requested cooperation does not unreasonably interfere with the ongoing operations of Diamond and its subsidiaries and (a) Diamond and its subsidiaries shall not be required to incur any liability or pay any fee or expense in connection with the debt financing prior to the closing, (b) the pre-closing board of directors of Diamond or any subsidiary thereof shall not be required to adopt resolutions approving the agreements, documents and instruments pursuant to which the debt financing is obtained or incur any personal

 

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liability, (c) Diamond and its subsidiaries shall not be required to execute prior to the closing any definitive financing documents that will be effective prior to closing, including any credit or other agreements, pledge or security documents, or other certificates, legal opinions or documents in connection with the debt financing, other than the authorization letters, “know your customer” information and redemption notices set forth above, (d) Diamond and its subsidiaries shall not be required to take any corporate actions that will be effective prior to the closing to permit the consummation of the debt financing, (e) Diamond and its subsidiaries shall not be required to provide cooperation that sellers reasonably believe would violate any material contract binding on Diamond and its subsidiaries, any law, or violate Diamond or its subsidiaries’ organizational documents and (f) Diamond and its subsidiaries and their respective representatives shall not be required to prepare or provide (1) pro forma financial statements or pro forma financial information, (2) information regarding any post-closing or pro forma cost savings, synergies, capitalization, ownership or other post-closing pro forma adjustments desired to be incorporated into any of the information used in connection with the debt financing, (3) any description of all or any portion of the debt financing, including any such description to be included in liquidity and capital resources disclosure or any “description of notes,” and other information customarily provided by financing sources or their counsel, (4) projections, risk factors or other forward-looking statements relating to all or any component of the debt financing or (5) any financial statements or other information of the type required by Rule 3-09, Rule 3-10 (other than financial data regarding Diamond and its subsidiaries sufficient to enable HGV to include customary disclosure regarding guarantor and nonguarantor information) or Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act, any Compensation Discussion and Analysis or other information required by Item 402 of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act or any other information customarily excluded from an offering memorandum for private placements of nonconvertible high-yield debt securities under Rule 144A.

HGV and HGV Borrower have agreed to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the representatives and the pre-closing directors and officers of Diamond and its subsidiaries from and against any liability or obligation to providers of the debt financing in connection with any cooperation in connection with the debt financing, subject to certain exceptions. HGV has agreed to promptly upon Diamond’s request reimburse Diamond for all reasonable out-of-pocket and documented costs and expenses (including fees and disbursements of outside counsel) incurred by Diamond and its subsidiaries in connection with any cooperation in connection with the debt financing.

Securitization and Warehouse Facilities

Diamond has agreed to, and agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to cause each of its and its subsidiaries’ respective officers, directors, employees and representatives, in each case, to cooperate with HGV and/or any of its subsidiaries in connection with such party’s negotiation of new receivables financing arrangements to finance assets or the amendment of existing receivable financings with existing or new lenders on behalf of Diamond and its subsidiaries as may be reasonably requested by HGV and/or any of its subsidiaries, subject to customary limitations. HGV will promptly upon Diamond’s request reimburse Diamond, or cause it to be reimbursed, for all reasonable out-of-pocket and documented costs and expenses incurred by Diamond and its subsidiaries in connection with such cooperation.

HGV has agreed to, and agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to, and agreed to cause any of its subsidiaries to, and to use reasonable best efforts to, cause each of its and its subsidiaries’ respective officers, directors, employees and representatives, in each case, to cooperate with Diamond and its subsidiaries in connection with Diamond’s and such subsidiaries’ negotiation of the amendments contemplated by the warehouse commitment letters and any other amendments to or consents under the warehouse agreements necessary to satisfy the applicable closing conditions, provided that, in each case, HGV and any such subsidiaries will have received drafts of such documents reasonably in advance of execution, as may be reasonably requested by Diamond or such subsidiaries.

After March 10, 2021 and prior to the Closing Date, subject to the terms of the merger agreement, Diamond is permitted to take any and all actions necessary in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past

 

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practice to execute each permitted securitization and warehouse activity (as defined in the merger agreement); provided that, with respect to Diamond’s 2021 securitization transaction, such transaction will be effected in accordance with commercially reasonable terms (as determined by Diamond in good faith) under the market conditions at the time of issuance; provided, further that, (i) if such securitization cannot be effected on reasonable terms (as determined by Diamond, in its sole discretion) or (ii) the aggregate amount of the issuance exceeds $350,000,000 (net of any required deposit of proceeds into a prefunding account), Diamond will consult with HGV to pricing and consider in good faith HGV’s advice with respect to such negotiations and proceedings. In connection with the 2021 securitization transaction, HGV and each of its material subsidiaries will provide cooperation and assistance as may be reasonably requested by Diamond and its subsidiaries to facilitate such transaction. In connection with any permitted securitization and warehouse activity, Diamond will promptly upon HGV’s request reimburse HGV or its material subsidiaries for all reasonable out-of-pocket and documented costs and expenses incurred by HGV or any of its material subsidiaries in connection with such cooperation.

Issuance of DROT-2021-1

On April 20, 2021, Diamond completed a securitization transaction involving the issuance of $319.2 million of securities consisting of four tranches of Vacation Interest notes receivable. For additional information see “Management’s Discussion & Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Diamond– Subsequent Events.”

Employee Benefits Matters

From and after the Closing Date until the first anniversary thereof (or earlier cessation of employment, as applicable), HGV will, or will cause Diamond or one of its subsidiaries to, provide (i) a base salary or base wages to each continuing Diamond employee at a rate that is no less than the annual rate of the base salary or base wages that was provided to such continuing Diamond employee immediately prior to the closing of the merger and (ii) other employee benefits (but excluding any change of control, sale, retention or similar bonus arrangements, long-term incentive cash bonus opportunity or equity or equity-linked compensation (the “Excluded Benefits”)) that are substantially similar, in the aggregate, to, in HGV’s sole discretion, either (x) the other employee benefits (but excluding the Excluded Benefits) provided to employees of Diamond or any of its subsidiaries immediately prior to the Closing Date or (y) the other employee benefits (but excluding the Excluded Benefits) provided to similarly-situated employees of HGV and its subsidiaries (excluding any such benefits that similarly-situated employees of HGV and its subsidiaries become entitled to as a result of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement or the ancillary agreements). In addition, from and after the Closing Date until December 31 of the year in which the closing occurs (or earlier cessation of employment, as applicable), HGV will, or will cause Diamond or one of its subsidiaries to, provide target annual cash bonus opportunity to each continuing Diamond employee that is no less than the target annual cash bonus opportunity that was provided to such continuing Diamond employee immediately prior to the closing of the merger.

Generally, HGV will cause the service of each continuing Diamond employee prior to the Closing Date to be taken into account for all purposes, including of participation, eligibility, vesting, level of benefits and benefit accrual (but not for benefit accruals under any defined benefit pension plan or for purposes of qualifying for subsidized early retirement benefits), as applicable, under all employee benefit plans of HGV and its subsidiaries, to the same extent as such service was taken into account under corresponding plans of Diamond and its subsidiaries for such purposes. HGV will waive, and will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause any third-party insurer to waive, any pre-existing condition or limitation for each continuing Diamond employee under any health or welfare plan of HGV or its subsidiaries for any condition for which such continuing Diamond employee would have been entitled to coverage under the corresponding plan of Diamond and each of its subsidiaries in which such continuing Diamond employee participated immediately prior to the Closing Date.

If requested by HGV not less than ten business days before the Closing Date, Diamond or its applicable subsidiary will terminate the Diamond Resorts 401(k) Savings Plan (the “Diamond 401(k) Plan”), effective as of immediately prior to the Closing Date. In the event that the Diamond 401(k) Plan is terminated, HGV will use

 

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commercially reasonable efforts to cause an HGV plan that includes a cash or deferred arrangement qualified under Section 401(k) of the Code to permit and accept (i) rollover contributions of account balances and (ii) as rollover contributions a maximum of two (2) outstanding loan notes made by such continuing Diamond employee that are held as assets of the Diamond 401(k) Plan immediately prior to the closing of the merger and permit the continuing Diamond employee who made such loan note to continue to repay the underlying loan in accordance with its terms in effect immediately prior to the closing.

Treatment of Equity Awards

 

   

Each in-the-money option, whether vested or unvested, will automatically cease to be outstanding and be converted into and exchanged for the right to receive, without any interest thereon, a number of shares of our common stock and/or cash in lieu of any fractional shares of our common stock equal to the option consideration (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such in-the-money option); and

 

   

All Diamond options outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that are not in-the-money options will (i) to the extent not then vested, become fully vested as of immediately prior to the effective time (assuming full satisfaction of any performance-vesting conditions applicable to such Option) and (ii) automatically be cancelled and terminated at the effective time without payment therefor, and, to such extent, will have no further force or effect.

Other Covenants and Agreements

The merger agreement contains certain other covenants and agreements, including covenants relating to:

 

   

confidentiality and access by each party to certain information about the other party during the period before the effective time of the merger;

 

   

the payment of certain costs and expenses incurred in connection with the filing, printing and mailing of this proxy statement (including filing fees) and the filings of under the HSR Act and similar laws of other jurisdictions (including filing fees);

 

   

taking all action necessary to eliminate or minimize the effect of takeover laws on the merger and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;

 

   

notification to the other party of any notice or other material communication from governmental entities or any actions commenced or threatened in connection with the merger;

 

   

the use of HGV’s reasonable best efforts to cause the shares of our common stock issuable in connection with the merger to be approved for listing on the NYSE (subject to official notice of issuance);

 

   

cooperation between HGV and Diamond in the defense or settlement of any stockholder litigation relating to the merger;

 

   

the use of each party’s reasonable best efforts to cause the merger to qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) the Code;

 

   

cooperation between HGV, on the one hand, and the sellers and Diamond, on the other hand, in connection with public announcements; and

 

   

effective as of the closing, (i) HGV’s and Diamond’s release of the sellers for all claims against any seller for matters related to the pre-closing period and (ii) the sellers’ release of Diamond for all claims against Diamond for matters related to the pre-closing period.

 

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Conditions to Completion of the Merger

The respective obligations of HGV, Diamond and each seller to consummate the merger are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:

 

   

the approval of the stock issuance proposal by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast by holders of our common stock entitled to vote thereon at a stockholder’s meeting duly called and held for such purpose;

 

   

the termination or expiration of any applicable waiting period under the HSR Act;

 

   

the receipt of all authorizations, consents, orders or approvals of, or declarations or filings with, or expirations of waiting periods imposed by, the COFECE under the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Law and the Federal Competition Authority under the Austrian Cartel Act and the Competition Act;

 

   

the absence of any judgment, order, law or other legal restraint by a court or other governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that prevents the consummation of the merger; and

 

   

the approval for listing by the NYSE of the shares of our common stock issuable in the merger.

Our obligations to consummate the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following additional conditions:

 

   

the representations and warranties of Diamond related to its capital structure being true and correct in all respects both when made and as of the Closing Date, which will be the third business day after all conditions to the completion of the merger have been satisfied or waived (other than those conditions that by their terms are to be satisfied at the closing, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver thereof at the closing), unless us and Diamond mutually agree in writing to a different date (subject to extension under certain circumstances, the “Closing Date”) (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date), except, in each case, for de minimis inaccuracies;

 

   

certain representations and warranties of Diamond relating to organization, standing, corporate power, authority, inapplicability of state anti-takeover statutes, the recommendation of Diamond’s board of directors, the vote required by Diamond’s stockholders, brokers, its wholly-owned subsidiaries party to the merger agreement and certain matters related to Diamond’s vacation ownership interest inventory (“dedicated inventory”) being true and correct in all material respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date);

 

   

each other representation and warranty of Diamond being true and correct both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to a specific date in which case such representations and warranties must be true and correct as of such date), except where the failure of such representations and warranties to be so true and correct (without giving effect to any limitation or qualification as to “materiality” (including the word “material”) or “material adverse effect” set forth therein) does not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate with respect to all such failures, a material adverse effect on Diamond;

 

   

certain ancillary agreements having been delivered and not having been rescinded or repudiated by certain parties thereto;

 

   

Diamond and each seller having performed in all material respects all obligations and complied in all material respects with all covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the merger agreement;

 

   

the absence of a material adverse effect on Diamond having occurred and continuing; and

 

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the receipt of an officer’s certificate executed by an authorized officer of Diamond certifying that certain conditions have been satisfied.

The obligations of Diamond and each seller to consummate the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following additional conditions:

 

   

the representations and warranties of HGV related to its capital structure being true and correct in all respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date), except, in each case, for de minimis inaccuracies;

 

   

certain representations and warranties of HGV relating to organization, standing, corporate power, authority, the shares of its common stock issuable in the merger, inapplicability of state anti-takeover statutes, brokers and its wholly-owned subsidiaries party to the merger agreement being true and correct in all material respects both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to a specific date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such date);

 

   

each other representation and warranty of HGV being true and correct both when made and as of the Closing Date (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to a specific date in which case such representations and warranties must be true and correct as of such date), except where the failure of such representations and warranties to be so true and correct (without giving effect to any limitation or qualification as to “materiality” (including the word “material”) or “material adverse effect” set forth therein) does not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate with respect to all such failures, a material adverse effect on HGV;

 

   

certain ancillary agreements having been delivered and not having been rescinded or repudiated by certain parties thereto;

 

   

HGV having performed in all material respects all obligations and complied in all material respects with all covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the merger agreement;

 

   

the absence of a material adverse effect on HGV having occurred and continuing; and

 

   

the receipt of an officer’s certificate executed by an authorized officer of HGV certifying that certain conditions have been satisfied.

Additionally, our obligation to complete the merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of conditions relating to the absence of defaults under Diamond’s unsecured notes and absence of defaults and sufficient availability under Diamond’s warehouse facilities immediately after giving effect to the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.

Termination of the Merger Agreement

The merger agreement contains certain customary termination rights for HGV and Diamond. The parties may mutually agree to terminate the merger agreement before completing the merger.

In addition, we or Diamond may terminate the merger agreement:

 

   

if the merger is not consummated by the termination date, subject to extension to December 9, 2021 under certain circumstances where the required antitrust approvals have not been obtained;

 

   

if any law or order prohibiting the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement has become final and non-appealable;

 

   

if the other party has breached or failed to perform in any respect any of its representations, warranties, covenants or other agreements contained in the merger agreement, which breach or failure to perform

 

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(a) would give rise to the failure of the applicable condition to consummate the closing of the merger and (b) is incapable of being cured by such party or is not cured by the earlier of (x) twenty days following delivery of written notice of such breach to such other party and (y) the termination date; provided, that such termination right shall not be available if such party is then in breach of any of its representations, warranties or covenants contained in the merger agreement and such breach would give rise to the failure of the applicable condition to consummate the closing of the merger; or

 

   

if we hold a stockholders meeting for the purpose of obtaining approval of the stock issuance proposal and HGV stockholders vote on the stock issuance proposal and approval thereof is not obtained in such vote.

In addition, Diamond may terminate the merger agreement:

 

   

if (a) the closing of the merger is required to occur pursuant to the merger agreement, (b) all of the closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement continue to be met, (c) HGV fails to close the transaction when required pursuant to the merger agreement (including by reason of a financing failure) and (d) Diamond and the sellers stand ready, will and able to consummate the closing; or

 

   

if, prior to the time our stockholder approval is obtained, our board of directors has withdrawn, modified or qualified its recommendation in favor of the merger as a result of an Intervening Event (as defined in the merger agreement), and reasonably determines in good faith, after consultation with outside counsel, that failure to do so would violate its fiduciary obligations under applicable law.

Termination Fees and Expenses

We may be obligated to pay (or cause to be paid) a termination fee to Diamond in the following circumstances:

 

   

If either party terminates the merger agreement following the board of directors of HGV (or a committee thereof) withdrawing, modifying or qualifying its recommendation in favor of the stock issuance proposal, and, at the time of such termination, our stockholders have not approved the stock issuance proposal, we may be required to pay a termination fee of $44.1 million to Diamond.

 

   

In the event Diamond terminates the merger agreement following (i) the closing being required to occur pursuant to the merger agreement, (ii) certain closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement continuing to be satisfied (other than those conditions that, by their nature, are to be satisfied at the closing), (iii) our failure to close the transaction when required by the merger agreement (including by reason of a financing failure) and (iv) Diamond and the sellers standing ready, willing and able to consummate the closing, then we may be required to pay a termination fee of $73.5 million to Diamond.

 

   

In the event the stockholder approval is not obtained and the merger agreement is terminated for this reason, we will be obligated to reimburse up to $7.5 million of Diamond’s and its stockholders’ fees and expenses.

Generally, each party is required to pay all fees and expenses incurred by it in connection with the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. The merger agreement further provides that, with respect to termination fees incurred by or on behalf of Diamond in connection with obtaining certain consents pursuant to the merger agreement, including Diamond’s warehouse facilities, we, on the one hand, and the sellers, on the other hand, will each bear 50% of such costs.

Amendment and Modification

The merger agreement may be amended by the parties at any time in an instrument in writing; provided that no amendment of certain provisions may be material and adverse to HGV’s debt financing sources without their prior written consent.

 

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No Third-Party Beneficiaries

The merger agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies upon any person other than the parties thereto, the debt financing sources with respect to certain provisions of the merger agreement, and, with respect to the provisions described in the section entitled “—D&O Indemnification, Exculpation and Insurance” beginning on page 93 of this proxy statement, the indemnified parties.

Indemnification

Diamond stockholders will indemnify HGV for: (i) breaches of Diamond’s fundamental representations in the merger agreement to the extent not covered by representation and warranty insurance; (ii) breaches of such stockholders’ covenants in the merger agreement; (iii) any leakage and excluded liabilities to the extent not deducted from the merger consideration; (iv) pre-closing taxes as specified in the merger agreement to the extent not covered by representation and warranty insurance; and (v) appraisal claims by Diamond stockholders. Each seller’s liability is capped at the dollar value of the merger consideration received by such seller (or, in the case of the Apollo Investors, the aggregate merger consideration received by such Apollo Investors).

HGV will indemnify Diamond stockholders for: (i) breaches of HGV’s fundamental representations in the merger agreement; and (ii) breaches of HGV’s covenants in the merger agreement or, after the closing, the surviving company.

Specific Performance

The parties have agreed in the merger agreement that irreparable damage would occur and that monetary damages, even if available, would not be an adequate remedy if any of the provisions of the merger agreement are not performed in accordance with their specific terms or are otherwise breached. The parties have agreed that they will be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent or restrain breaches of the merger agreement and to enforce specifically the performance of its terms and provisions, without proof of actual damages, in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity. The sellers and Diamond’s entitlement to specific performance is conditioned upon (i) the closing being required to occur pursuant to the merger agreement; (ii) satisfaction and/or waiver of the conditions set forth in the merger agreement; (iii) funding of the debt financing at the closing and (iv) Diamond and the seller representative having irrevocably confirmed in writing to HGV that if specific performance is granted and the debt financing is funded, then Diamond and the sellers will participate in the closing.

The parties have further agreed to waive (i) any defense in any action for specific performance that a remedy at law would be adequate and (ii) any requirement under any law to post security as a prerequisite to obtaining equitable relief.

 

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OTHER AGREEMENTS

In connection with, and as part of, us entering into the merger agreement, (a) we and Apollo negotiated a final form of a stockholders agreement, a form of which is attached to the merger agreement that we, the Apollo Investors and Hilton will enter into in connection with the closing of the merger; and (b) with respect to Hilton, we obtained the Hilton consent and also entered into the Hilton agreements.

The following section summarizes material provisions of the form of the stockholders agreement and the Hilton agreements and Hilton consent.

Stockholders Agreement

HGV, the Apollo Investors and, for certain limited purposes, Hilton, have agreed to a “form of” stockholders agreement, which the parties will enter into as of the effective time of the merger. This stockholders agreement will govern the terms of the Apollo Investors’ investment in HGV post-closing. The following is a summary of the terms of the stockholders agreement.

Board and Governance Terms

Board Seats

The Apollo Investors will initially be entitled to designate two individuals (the “Apollo Designees”) to serve on our board of directors (out of a total of nine directors). The Apollo Investors have indicated that the initial designees will be David Sambur and Alex van Hoek. The Apollo Investors also have the right to designate replacements for the initial Apollo Designees, subject to undergoing a customary evaluation process by our nominating and corporate governance committee.

If we increase the size of our board of directors, for every three additional directors added, the Apollo Investors may appoint the third such director, so long as the Apollo Investors (or their affiliates who have executed a joinder agreement to become party to the stockholders agreement, which we refer to in this section, collectively, as the “Apollo parties”) still hold a number of shares equal to 20% of our total outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing.

The right to designate members of our board of directors will step down as the Apollo parties’ ownership decreases. When the Apollo parties no longer own a number of the shares received at the closing of the merger equal to (i) 15% of our total outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing, one Apollo Designee will be required to resign and (ii) 10% of our total outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing, the second Apollo Designee will be required to resign and the Apollo Investors will no longer be entitled to any representation on our board of directors. The Apollo Investors cannot buy back into the right to designate any Apollo Designees to our board of directors. The shares are not fungible, so the Apollo parties must retain the relevant number of shares from those received in the merger at closing.

Board Committees

One Apollo Designee will be entitled to serve on the Audit Committee, subject to satisfaction of all eligibility requirements (including “independence” requirements) for membership on the Audit Committee as mandated by applicable law, the rules of the NYSE and the charter of the Audit Committee. Additionally, each of the Apollo Designees will have observation rights and will be entitled to notice of, and to attend, committee meetings except when such attendance would reasonably be expected to present an actual or likely conflict of interest for the Apollo Designees in the good faith opinion of the applicable committee. However, the Apollo Designees (except with respect to an Apollo Designee who is a member of the Audit Committee) will not be entitled to a vote at such committee meetings.

 

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Transfer Restrictions

The Apollo parties are subject to a 180 day lock-up period post-closing. Only certain “Permitted Transfers” (as such term is defined in the Stockholders Agreement) are allowed during this period, including transfers to affiliates (subject to such affiliates executing a joinder agreement) and transfers pursuant to a bona fide loan or other financing arrangement.

After the lock-up period, the Apollo parties may freely transfer their shares, so long as such transfers (i) comply with the volume and manner of sale restrictions in Rule 144, (ii) (a) are to any person or group are of less than 5% of the total outstanding stock, and (b) are not to certain competitors of HGV or Hilton, known holders of 5% or more of HGV’s common stock or known activists, or (iii) are pursuant to an underwritten offering or a broker-facilitated block trade, in each case, so long as the Apollo parties direct the applicable underwriter(s) or broker(s) to comply with the restrictions set forth in clause (ii) of this sentence.

HGV will have certain pre-emptive rights on transfers by the Apollo parties, and the Apollo parties will provide HGV with two days’ prior written notice in advance of consummating a proposed transfer (unless the notice is delivered before 9:00 am on a Friday, in which case the notice period only lasts until 4:00 pm on such day), and during the notice period will consider in good faith any written offer made by HGV to purchase all or any portion of the HGV stock that the Apollo party proposes to transfer.

Standstill Obligations

The Apollo parties will be subject to standstill obligations so long as (i) the Apollo parties own a number of shares equal to 5% of the total outstanding shares of our common stock at closing or (ii) the Apollo parties have the right to designate at least one director, including, subject to certain exceptions, prohibitions against:

 

   

acquiring shares or debt of HGV;

 

   

publicly offering to acquire HGV;

 

   

soliciting proxies or influencing any voting of our common stock;

 

   

seeking to control or influence of Board (including removal/election) or HGV management;

 

   

initiating HGV stockholder proposals or seeking action by HGV stockholders;

 

   

forming or joining a “group” with respect to the common stock of HGV (other than a group consisting solely of Apollo parties);

 

   

seeking to control or influence HGV management or policies (alone or with others);

 

   

advising, assisting, encouraging or entering into arrangements with anyone with respect to any of the above;

 

   

arranging or providing any financing for the acquisition of common stock or assets of HGV by anyone generally (other than as permitted by the stockholders agreement);

 

   

publicly disclosing any intention, plan, or arrangement inconsistent with any of the above that an Apollo party knows, or would reasonably be expected to know, would require HGV to make a public announcement regarding any of the foregoing activities; and

 

   

contesting the validity of the above restrictions or challenging any ‘poison pill’ or similar anti-takeover device.

If the Apollo parties no longer own a number of shares equal to 5% of the total outstanding shares of our common stock, the standstill provision will terminate on the later of (i) the day after the next annual stockholders meeting and (ii) 90 days after the first date on which the Apollo parties’ ownership falls below such 5% level.

 

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The Apollo parties will be permitted to acquire additional shares of HGV common stock, so long as such acquisitions do not exceed the lower of (i) the Apollo Investors’ ownership level of HGV common stock at the closing of the merger and (ii) the Apollo Investors’ ownership level of HGV common stock at the closing of the merger less the number of shares of HGV common stock transferred by the Apollo parties to a person other than another Apollo Entity (as such term is defined in the Stockholders Agreement) plus 2% of the total outstanding shares of HGV common stock immediately prior to such purchase.

Voting Matters

So long as the Apollo parties own a number of shares equal to 5% of the total outstanding shares of our common stock at closing, the Apollo parties are obligated to vote all of their shares as recommended by our board of directors with respect to routine matters (including contested or uncontested elections of directors, “say on pay” votes, approval of equity compensation plans and ratification of the selection of HGV’s auditors).

Additionally, as described under “Standstill Obligations” above, the Apollo parties will agree to customary restrictions with respect to solicitation of proxies and voting of shares in contested elections. Otherwise, the Apollo parties will be free to vote their shares in their sole discretion up to the number of shares that represents the Apollo Investors’ ownership percentage at the closing of the merger. If at any time the Apollo parties’ ownership percentage exceeds what it was at the closing of the merger (due to share repurchases or another reduction in the total number of shares outstanding), then any excess shares must be voted pro rata with other HGV stockholders.

Consent Rights

So long as the Apollo parties hold a number of shares equal to at least 10% of our total outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing, the consent of the Apollo parties will be required to (i) amend HGV’s charter or bylaws in a manner that would require stockholder approval and would materially, disproportionately and adversely affect the rights of the Apollo parties or (ii) increase the size of our board of directors to exceed twelve directors; provided, that the Apollo parties have no such consent right for amendments to HGV’s charter or bylaws to adopt poison pills approved by our board of directors.

Additionally, the stockholders agreement may not be amended without the written consent of both HGV and the Apollo Investors (and, in some cases, Hilton).

Registration Rights

The Apollo parties can make up to six demands to have HGV register the shares of our common stock received in connection with the consummation of the merger, subject to standard carve-outs. Certain affiliates of Reverence Capital Partners (the “Reverence parties”) and the other selling stockholders have the right to participate in any of the demand registrations, and the Reverence parties and Apollo parties have “piggyback” rights allowing them to participate in registered public offerings by HGV.

If eligible to file a Form S-3, HGV must file the requested registration statement within 45 days of the written demand for registration. If not eligible, HGV must file a registration statement on another form as expeditiously as possible. HGV must keep the registration effective for at least 180 days after the effective date (or such shorter period during which all registrable securities have been sold), subject to extension in the event of any required suspension of sales.

The Apollo parties are responsible for paying all expenses for the registration of their shares.

 

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Pre-emptive Rights

The Apollo parties will have limited preemptive rights on certain future equity issuances, subject to customary carve-outs and limitations, so long as the Apollo parties own an aggregate of 10% of the total outstanding shares of our common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing. The Apollo parties will be able to participate in such issuances up to an amount equal to their then-current ownership percentage.

Confidentiality and Non-Use

The Apollo Designees will sign a customary confidentiality and non-use agreement in substantially the same form as signed by other members of our board of directors.

In addition, Apollo Designees who serve, or have served in the preceding twelve months, on HGV’s Board shall not serve on the board of directors of certain competitors of HGV or Hilton, or serve on the board of directors of any Apollo Entity (as defined in the stockholders agreement) that has a significant interest in such competitors. The Apollo parties are also prohibited from acquiring a significant interest in such competitors that would result in such competitor becoming an affiliate of any Apollo Entity.

Termination

Generally, the stockholders agreement terminates when the Apollo parties no longer own a number of shares equal to 5% of our total outstanding shares of common stock immediately after the closing after giving effect to the stock issuance at closing; provided, that certain provisions have earlier termination dates as noted above.

Hilton Consent to Certain Amendments or Waivers

Hilton will be a party to the stockholders agreement solely for the purpose of requiring its consent prior to any amendments to or waivers of certain provisions that govern (a) corporate governance matters, (b) voting matters, (c) transfer restrictions and (d) standstill obligations.

Hilton Agreements and Consent

In connection with, and as part of, us entering into the merger agreement, we obtained the Hilton consent and entered into the Hilton agreements.

Hilton Consent

Our original license agreement with Hilton requires us to obtain Hilton’s prior written consent before completing certain significant transactions, including the acquisition of Diamond through the merger. As part of us entering into the merger agreement and completing the merger and the related transactions, we obtained the Hilton consent simultaneously with the signing of the merger agreement. The Hilton consent is effective as of the date of the merger agreement and is irrevocable unless: (a) the merger agreement is materially amended between signing and closing of the merger, (b) if the form of the stockholders agreement and related arrangements are amended with respect to certain sections over which Hilton would have consent rights as described above under “—Stockholders Agreement”; (c) if we or Diamond are required by any governmental authority to divest of certain assets or properties in excess of a certain dollar threshold (which threshold is higher than the threshold set forth in the merger agreement; see “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to Completion of the Merger”); or (d) if the merger has not been consummated by the outside date set forth in the merger agreement. The Hilton consent also provides that, if the merger has not been consummated by the outside date, the A&R Hilton license agreement will be null and void and the parties’ arrangement will revert back to the original license agreement.

 

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Hilton Agreements

In connection with entering into the merger agreement, we and Hilton entered into the A&R Hilton license agreement, which replaced the original license agreement in its entirety, and certain other arrangements. These Hilton agreements are intended to facilitate our integration of the Diamond business and created a separate license fee structure related to such integration.

Among other items, the A&R Hilton license agreement provides for a gradual ramp-up of royalty fee structure over the initial five (5) years following the closing of the merger, ranging from 2.0% to 5.0% of applicable revenue, with respect to:

 

   

sales of interests or rights to use in a new exchange club or membership (“New Club”) to be developed by us after the closing of the merger as part of the Diamond integration that may cover both HGV’s current properties and Diamond properties that we anticipate will convert into Hilton Vacation Club or other HGV-branded properties (“New Brand Properties”); and

 

   

various property-level revenues associated with New Brand Properties, such as transient rental revenues.

The A&R Hilton license agreement also provides for a ramp-up of royalty fees over the initial five (5) years following the closing of the merger for certain HOA expenses, ranging from 0% to 1.5%.

The new ramp-up royalty fee structure applies only to the Diamond business and any conversion of existing Diamond properties to our branded properties and the A&R Hilton license agreement did not modify the current royalty fee and other fee structures from the original license agreement. Accordingly, our current business and existing properties or any new properties that we may acquire or open will continue to be subject to the original royalty fee structure. The conversion of any Diamond property into our branded property is subject to an approval process by Hilton.

The A&R Hilton license agreement, together with other arrangements entered into at the same time, also made the following additional changes:

 

   

extended our original exclusivity period known as the “Initial Noncompetition Term” (as defined in the A&R Hilton license agreement) by five (5) years to December 31, 2051;

 

   

amended certain provisions related to the parties’ respective obligations with respect to Hilton’s current co-branded credit card program;

 

   

modified certain marketing rights, marketing channel rights, and lead generation; and

 

   

modified certain hotel rate discount provisions for our VOI owners, employee participation in certain Hilton employee programs, and branding and licensed mark provisions relating to New Brand Properties and New Club.

Under the A&R Hilton license agreement, we are required to operate the Diamond business as a “Separate Operation,” as such term is defined therein, subject to the approved conversion of any Diamond property to our branded property. We and Hilton are currently in discussions to further amend such requirements, with any such amendments to be agreed to by Hilton in its sole discretion, so as to allow us to operate the Diamond business in a manner that would optimize efficiency and synergy.

Stockholders Agreement

As previously discussed, Hilton will be a party to our stockholders agreement with the Apollo Investors solely with respect to certain provisions of the stockholders agreement. Accordingly, certain sections of the stockholders agreement that relate to certain corporate governance matters, transfer restrictions relating to our common stock, certain voting obligations of the Apollo Investors, and standstill provisions may not be amended or waived without Hilton’s consent. See “—Stockholders Agreement” beginning on page 103 of this proxy statement.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF DIAMOND

Business Overview

Diamond and certain of its subsidiaries were established to complete the merger of DRI with certain Apollo affiliates, which was completed on September 2, 2016 (the “Apollo Merger”). DRI is a holding company, the principal asset of which is the direct and indirect ownership of equity interests in its subsidiaries, including Diamond Resorts Corporation, the wholly-owned operating subsidiary that has historically conducted the business described below. See “Note 1:— Business, Background and Basis of Presentation” to the audited consolidated and unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Diamond included in this proxy statement.

Diamond is a global leader in the hospitality and vacation ownership industry, with a vast resort network of global vacation destinations located around the world, including the continental U.S., Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Africa.

Diamond’s operations consist of two interrelated businesses:

 

   

Vacation Interests sales and financing, which includes marketing and sales of VOIs and consumer financing for purchasers of our VOIs. Diamond derives a majority of its revenue and operating cash flows from the VOI sales and financing segment, primarily driven by sales and marketing efforts at channels that predominately include managed resorts, on-site sales centers at affiliated resorts and local venues; and

 

   

Hospitality and management services, which includes operations related to the management of the homeowners associations (the “VOAs”), multi-resort trusts and the Diamond Collections, operations of the exchange programs, operation of certain resort amenities and the provision of other hospitality and management services.

Significant Events

Hilton Grand Vacation Merger Agreement

On March 10, 2021, HGV, Merger Sub, Dakota Holdings, and certain stockholders of Dakota Holdings entered into the merger agreement. The merger agreement provides that, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein and in accordance with applicable law, Dakota Holdings will merge with Merger Sub with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving entity after the merger.

Diamond’s board of directors unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement including the merger, are advisable, fair to and in the best interest of Dakota Holdings and its stockholders, and authorized, approved and declared advisable the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger.

The Apollo Investors and the Dakota Holdings’ other stockholders are expected to receive 34.4 million of HGV common shares, valued at approximately $1.3 billion, subject to customary adjustments. Upon closing of the merger, existing HGV stockholders will own approximately 72% of the combined company and Apollo and the other Diamond stockholders will own approximately 28% of the combined company, subject to adjustments under the merger agreement. In connection with the merger, HGV intends to repay Diamond’s Senior Facilities and First Lien Notes at the closing of the merger.

Among other things, the closing is subject to certain conditions, including the approval of the proposed issuance of HGV common shares in connection with the merger by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote on such matter at a special meeting of stockholders. See “Note

 

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25—Subsequent Events” to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this proxy statement for additional information related to terms and conditions of the merger agreement.

Impact of COVID-19

In March 2020 the World Health Organization designated COVID-19 as a global pandemic. The results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the three months ended March 31. 2021 include impacts related to COVID-19 which have had a negative impact on Diamond and the travel and hospitality industry. In response to social distancing directives and significant restrictions on travel caused by COVID-19, Diamond initially closed most of its resorts and suspended its onsite sales and marketing operations. Diamond has taken several steps to enhance liquidity, preserve cash, reduce expenditures and provide financial flexibility, and the company’s management is continuing to assess the evolving situation and will take actions as appropriate. These include measures such as: reductions in both salaries and workforce, including voluntary reductions in salaries by its executive leadership team; unpaid employee furloughs; temporary elimination of 401(k) matching; and deferral of all -non-essential operating and capital expenditures.

Beginning in May 2020, as governmental authorities began to lift restrictions, Diamond worked with health experts in establishing reopening safety protocols. Diamond implemented and trained team members on the “Diamond Standard of Clean.” Since late May 2020, Diamond has re-opened the majority of its North American Portfolio Properties and onsite sales centers, albeit at reduced capacity levels and revenue has not returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. Although certain of the Diamond Club offerings and member benefits, such as cruise itineraries, remain unavailable, Diamond expects total revenue to recover to pre-COVID-19 levels late in 2021. Diamond continues to monitor travel restrictions and prioritize the safety of our customers and employees. This involves a continuous assessment of whether the closure of resorts is necessary due to potential tightening of government restrictions, stay-at-home orders and the potential resurgence of coronavirus cases.

Diamond considered the income tax accounting and disclosure implications of the relief provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act enacted on March 27, 2020. The effect of tax law changes is generally required to be recognized in the interim period in which the legislation is enacted and reflected in the computation of the annual effective tax rate. As of December 31, 2020, Diamond evaluated the income tax provisions of the CARES Act and determined there to be an immaterial effect on the December 31, 2020 computation of the effective income tax rate for the year. Diamond will continue to evaluate the income tax provisions of the CARES Act and monitor the developments in the jurisdictions where Diamond has significant operations for tax law changes that could have income tax accounting and disclosure implications. Diamond recorded $6.6 million of employee retention payroll tax credits pursuant to the CARES Act and similar foreign government programs in the year ended December 31, 2020.

Based on Diamond’s current estimates regarding the magnitude and length of the disruptions to its business, it does not anticipate these disruptions will impact its ability to meet its obligations when due or is ability to maintain compliance with debt covenants for at least the next 12 months. However, the ultimate magnitude and length of time that the disruptions from COVID-19 will continue is highly uncertain. This uncertainty will require Diamond’s management team to continually assess the situation, including the impact of changes to government-imposed restrictions. Accordingly, Diamond’s estimates regarding the magnitude and length of time that these disruptions will continue to impact the company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial condition may change in the future and such changes could be material.

Debt Amendments

Deutsche Bank Conduit Facility

On July 15, 2020, Diamond amended the Deutsche Bank Conduit Facility to reduce the maximum commitment amount for aggregate borrowings from $250.0 million to $200.0 million and provide flexibility with respect to satisfying certain financial covenants through the first quarter of 2021 due to the ongoing and uncertain future impact of COVID-19.

 

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Capital One Conduit Facility

On August 4, 2020, Diamond entered into an amendment and waiver agreement related to its warehouse loan facility with Capital One, National Association (the “Waiver”). The Waiver provided flexibility with respect to satisfying certain financial covenants with respect to pledged collateral for the second quarter of 2020.

 

On September 30, 2020, Diamond amended the Capital One Conduit Facility to: (i) extend the stated maturity to September 30, 2024 and the commitment expiration to September 30, 2022 and, (ii) provide additional flexibility with respect to certain financial covenants through the second quarter of 2021.

Senior Facilities

On August 12, 2020 and September 16, 2020, Diamond entered into incremental assumption agreements with certain lenders of Diamond’s Senior Facilities primarily to extend the maturity of an aggregate $100.0 million of revolving facility commitments from September 2, 2021 to June 2, 2023.

Credit Suisse Conduit Facility

On August 24, 2020, Diamond amended the Credit Suisse Conduit Facility to: (i) extend the stated maturity to August 24, 2023 and the commitment expiration to August 24, 2022; (ii) reduce the maximum commitment amount for aggregate borrowings from $300.0 million to $200.0 million and, (iii) provide flexibility with respect to satisfying certain financial covenants through the second quarter of 2021 due to the ongoing and uncertain future impact of COVID-19 (that certain ninth amended and restated note funding agreement, dated as of August 24, 2020, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “Note Funding Agreement”). The maximum commitment can be increased up to $300.0 million prior to the commitment expiration date subject to consent by all parties to the amended Note Funding Agreement.

Wells Fargo Conduit Facility

On September 9, 2020, Diamond terminated the Wells Fargo Conduit Facility which historically provided for a maximum commitment amount of $75.0 million. Diamond paid $29.3 million to redeem the remaining aggregate principal amount of commitments outstanding.

Early Redemption of DROT 2016-1

On January 20, 2021, Diamond gave notice to exercise early redemption of the securitization notes outstanding under Diamond Resorts Owner Trust 2016-1 (“DROT 2016-1”) in the amount of $19.0 million, which includes aggregate outstanding principal and accrued interest. The redemption was completed on February 22, 2021.

Merger Signing Amendments

On March 10, 2021, Diamond entered into various amendments and a commitment letter relating to the Deutsche Bank Conduit Facility for the purpose of amending the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Deutsche Bank Conduit Facility, as of the date thereof and as may be further amended in the future, to accommodate for changes relating to the Merger.

On March 10, 2021, Diamond entered into various amendments relating to the Capital One Conduit Facility for the purpose of amending the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Capital One Conduit Facility, as of the date thereof and as may be further amended in the future, to accommodate for changes relating to the Merger.

 

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On March 10, 2021, Diamond entered into various amendments and a commitment letter relating to the Credit Suisse Conduit Facility for the purpose of amending the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Credit Suisse Conduit Facility, as of the date thereof and as may be further amended in the future, to accommodate for changes relating to the Merger.

On March 10, 2021, Diamond entered into various amendments and a commitment letter relating to the Credit Suisse Premium Yield Facility for the purpose of amending the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Credit Suisse Premium Yield Facility, as of the date thereof and as may be further amended in the future, to accommodate for changes relating to the Merger.

On March 10, 2021, Diamond entered into various amendments and a commitment letter relating to the Natixis Conduit Facility for the purpose of amending the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Natixis Conduit Facility, as of the date thereof and as further amended on May 6, 2021, as set forth below, and as may be further amended in the future, to accommodate for changes relating to the Merger.

Natixis Conduit Facility

On May 6, 2021, Diamond amended the Natixis Conduit Facility to renew a line of credit provided by Natixis, New York Branch with a maximum commitment amount of $125 million and to amend the terms of the operative legal documents relating to the Natixis Conduit Facility to accommodate changes relating to the Merger.

Subsequent Events

Issuance of DROT 2021-1

On April 20, 2021, Diamond completed a securitization transaction involving the issuance of $319.2 million of securities (the DROT 2021-1 Notes”). The DROT 2021-1 Notes consists of four tranches of Vacation Interest notes receivable that include $134.1 million of Class A tranche notes, $83.2 million of Class B tranche notes, $65.4 million of Class C tranche notes and $36.5 million of Class D tranche notes. The interest rates for the Class A tranche notes, the Class B tranche notes, the Class C tranche notes and the Class D tranche notes are 1.51%, 2.05%, 2.70% and 3.83% respectively. The overall weighted average interest rate of the DROT 2021-1 Notes is 2.16%.

The proceeds of the DROT 2021-1 Notes were used to repay amounts outstanding under certain Funding Facilities in the amount of $134.1 million in principal and accrued interest. The DROT 2021-1 Notes allow for a prefunding amount of $79.8 million which is available to draw subject to eligible Vacation Interests notes receivable requirements as outlined in the DROT 2021-1 indenture. The remaining proceeds were used to fund reserve accounts and pay costs associated with the transaction with the remaining cash transferred to Diamond for general corporate purpose.

Segment Reporting

For financial reporting purposes, Diamond presents its results of operations and financial condition in two reportable segments: Vacation Interests sales and financing and hospitality and management services, which include the operations as discussed above in “—Business Overview.” Certain line items reflected on its statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) fall completely into one of these reportable segments, while other line items relate to both segments; specifically, other revenue and loan portfolio expense, which are allocated to the appropriate segment based on the nature of the underlying transactions. Certain expense items, principally corporate interest expense, depreciation and amortization and provision for income taxes, are not, in management’s view, allocable to either of these reportable segments as they apply to all operations of the business. In addition, general and administrative expenses are not allocated to either of Diamond’s reportable segments because historically management has not allocated these expenses for purposes of evaluating our different operational divisions. Accordingly, these expenses are presented under corporate and other.

 

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Diamond also provides financial information for our geographic segments based on the geographic locations of our subsidiaries in “Information Regarding Geographic Areas of Operation.”

Results of Operations

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 ($ in millions).

 

     Three Months Ended              
     March 31, 2021     March 31, 2020     $ Change     % Change  

Revenues:

        

Vacation Interests sales, net of provision of $28.8 and $100.6, respectively

   $ 98.9   $ 82.3   $ 16.6     20.2%  

Management and member services revenue

     100.3     108.6     (8.3     (7.6)%  

Consumer financing interest

     25.6     27.9     (2.3     (8.2)%  

Other

     16.7     21.1     (4.4     (20.9)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total revenues

     241.5     239.9     1.6     0.7%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Costs and Expenses:

        

Vacation Interests cost of sales

     19.6     19.1     0.5     2.6%  

Advertising, sales and marketing

     70.5     103.1     (32.6     (31.6)%  

Vacation Interests carrying cost, net

     26.2     19.4     6.8     35.1%  

Management and member services expense

     45.1     55.9     (10.8     (19.3)%  

Loan portfolio

     6.9     8.7     (1.8     (20.7)%  

General and administrative

     46.7     41.1     5.6     13.6%  

Depreciation and amortization

     29.8     29.4     0.4     1.4%  

Goodwill impairment

     —         103.4     (103.4     (100.0)%  

Impairments and other write-offs

     —         14.1     (14.1     (100.0)%  

Consumer financing interest expense

     8.6     9.2     (0.6     (6.5)%  

Gain on disposal of assets, net

     —         (0.6     0.6     (100.0)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Total operating costs and expenses

     253.4     402.8     (149.4     (37.1)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Interest income

     (0.2     (0.9     0.7     (77.8)%  

Corporate indebtedness interest expense

     40.3     51.1     (10.8     (21.1)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Loss before benefit for income taxes

     (52.0     (213.1     161.1     (75.6)%  

Benefit for income taxes

     (7.0     (27.0     20.0     (74.1)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Net loss

   $ (45.0   $ (186.1   $ 141.1     (75.8)%  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

Consolidated Results

Total revenues increased $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily from a combination of the following:

 

   

$10.3 million of higher revenues in the Vacation Interests sales and financing segment resulting from a $16.6 million increase in Vacation Interests sales, net, due to a decrease in the provision for uncollectible Vacation Interests sales of $71.8 million, which was primarily due to an incremental loan loss included in the provision, related to COVID-19 of $0.0 million and $45 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. The remaining decrease was due to lower gross Vacation Interests sales; which was partially offset by a decrease in consumer financing interest revenue of $2.3 million primarily due to a reduction in the balance of the notes receivable portfolio from the prior period and a decrease in other revenue of a $4.4 million due to reduction in closing costs revenue from gross Vacation Interests sales and lower business levels due to COVID-19.

 

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$8.7 million of lower revenues in the hospitality and management services segment primarily resulting from a decrease in management and member services revenue of $8.3 million mainly as a result of a decrease in room, food and beverage, and ancillary revenue primarily driven by reduced resorts’ capacity and ongoing travel restrictions related to COVID-19.

Total operating costs and expenses decreased $149.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily from a combination of the following:

 

   

$145.1 million of lower operating costs and expenses in the Vacation Interests sales and financing segment primarily attributable to a decrease in advertising, sales and marketing expense of $32.6 million largely driven by the decrease in gross Vacation Interests sales; and cost reduction efforts related to COVID-19; a decrease in goodwill impairment charge related to the NA VISF reporting unit of $103.4 million and a decrease in incremental allowance for credit losses related to the Acquired Notes of $14.1 million. The decrease was partially offset by an increase in Vacation Interests carrying costs, net of $6.8 million, which was primarily driven by lower rental revenues of $13.3 million, decrease in usage of sales incentives, and partially offset by a decrease in inventory carrying costs of $6.5 million.

 

   

$10.9 million of lower operating costs and expenses in the hospitality and management services segment primarily as a result of a decrease in management and member services expense of $10.8 million mainly as a result of a reduction in resorts’ capacity and ongoing travel restrictions related to COVID-19.

 

   

$6.6 million of higher unallocated corporate costs primarily attributable to an increase in general and administrative expense of $5.6 million primarily driven by acquisition related expenses for the HGV Merger.

Our effective income tax rate of 13.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2021 differed from the statutory tax rate primarily due to the effect of certain foreign income and losses included in U.S. taxable income, the impact of valuation allowances applied to certain foreign losses and permanent book-tax differences.

See the following discussion by business segment for additional details.

 

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Business Segment Results

Following is a discussion of the results of each of our two business segments and corporate and other for the periods presented below.

Vacation Interests Sales and Financing ($ in millions, except as otherwise noted)

 

     Three Months Ended                
     March 31, 2021      March 31, 2020      $ Change      % Change  

Revenues:

           

Vacation Interests sales, net

   $ 98.9    $ 82.3    $ 16.6      20.2%  

Consumer financing interest

     25.6      27.9      (2.3      (8.2)%  

Other revenue

     14.7      18.7      (4.0      (21.4)%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total revenues

     139.2      128.9      10.3      8.0%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Expenses:

           

Vacation Interests cost of sales

     19.6      19.1      0.5      2.6%  

Advertising, sales and marketing

     70.5      103.1      (32.6      (31.6)%  

Vacation Interests carrying cost, net

     26.2      19.4      6.8      35.1%  

Loan portfolio

     6.1      7.8      (1.7      (21.8)%  

Goodwill impairment

     —          103.4      (103.4      100.0%  

Other impairments and write-offs

     —          14.1      (14.1      100.0%  

Consumer financing interest expense

     8.6      9.2      (0.6      (6.5)%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total expenses

   $ 131.0    $ 276.1    $ (145.1      (52.6)%  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Number of Tours

     29,273      47,159      (17,886      (37.9)%  

VPG ($ not in millions)

   $ 4,687    $ 3,740    $ 947      25.3%  

Gross Vacation Interests sales decreased by $55.2 million, or 30.2%, primarily due to a decrease in tours of 17,886 resulting from lower arrivals due to COVID-19 partially offset by higher VPG of $947 driven primarily by an increase in average transaction price. The increase in Vacation Interest sales, net of $16.6 million, or 20.2%, is primarily offset by a decrease in the provision for uncollectible Vacation Interests sales of $71.8 million primarily due to the $45.0 million in additional provision incurred for COVID-19 and the remaining change due to lower gross Vacation Interests sales.

Consumer financing interest revenue decreased $2.3 million, or 8.2%, primarily due to a reduction in the balance of the notes receivable portfolio from the prior period.

Other revenue decreased $4.0 million, or 21.4%, primarily due to a decrease in closing costs revenue from gross Vacation Interests sales and lower business levels due to COVID-19.

Advertising, sales and marketing expense decreased $32.6 million, or 31.6%, primarily driven by the decrease in gross Vacation Interests sales and cost reduction efforts related COVID-19.

Vacation Interests carrying cost, net increased $6.8 million primarily due to lower rental revenues and usage of sales incentives and partially offset by a decrease in inventory carrying costs of $6.5 million.

 

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Hospitality and Management Services ($ in millions)

 

     Three Months Ended                
     March 31, 2021      March 31, 2020      $ Change