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Speculation in London's The Independent and the Financial Times that Hilton, which was bought by Blackstone for US $26 billion in 2007, could be broken up under plans devised by the hotel group's owner are “categorically untrue”, according to an official spokesperson for The Blackstone Group.
Reports based on 'sources close to the firm' claimed Blackstone needed to devise plans to realise the value from the group ahead of debt repayment deadlines coming up in three to four years.
The Independent article suggested the owner was in early-stage discussions, but highlighted the $21 billion worth of debt raised to buy Hilton back in 2007 would not be easily refinanced. However, changes in the market since the deal meant preparations needed to be made.
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