Intermex soars on Western Union's $500 million buyout deal

** International Money Express IMXI.O shares, better known as Intermex, jump 56% to $14.49 premarket

** Western Union WU.N will buy IMXI in a $500 million all-cash deal; WU up 1.4% at $8.15

** WU offers $16 per IMXI share, 72.4% premium to Friday's close

** Deal strengthens WU's U.S. retail presence, adds scale in high-growth Latin America geographies

** IMXI had explored strategic alternatives last year, but suspended it in 2025

** Valuation is well below other deals in fintech but likely reflects geopolitical challenges within U.S.–to–Latin America corridors, upcoming 1% tax on cash-based remittances, and continued uncertainties within the traditional retail channel - William Blair

** YTD, as of last close, IMXI down 55.5% vs WU down 24%