Step right up, folks. Don’t be shy. We’re playing “Which Deal Is Better” today, and any contestant is welcome.
The deals — announced well under the radar this week — were inked by IBM and by HSBC. You decide which was better.
First, IBM:
Big Blue says it’s acquiring Bank of America Corp.’s (NYSE:BAC) Wilshire Credit Corp., including the Wilshire mortgage servicing platform. IBM is hiring Wilshire’s 900 employees. Financial terms were not disclosed. Wilshire, a former Merrill Lynch Mortgage Capital subsidiary, provides BPO services to financial institutions in the mortgage lending sector.
Now, HSBC:
In a deal that’s estimated to be worth $1 million, HSBC Bank USA has purchased a six-ad package in Conde Nast’s The New Yorker. It’s the magazine’s largest single-issue ad buy since August 2005. The New Yorker’s October 12 Money issue, which hits newsstands today, features three covers—bound in the same issue—which have been created by three different artists. The HSBC ads will appear opposite the three covers, inside the front cover flap, on the inside back cover and on the back cover. “We’re thrilled that HSBC has come onboard for this unique opportunity,” said Lisa Hughes, vice president and publisher of The New Yorker, in a statement. “Our cover is always a source for conversation and the three unique covers on this year’s Money Issue are sure to get people talking.
So, there you have it, folks. Our deals of the day: IBM buying a BofA mortgage servicing shop and HSBC buying New Yorker ad space. Which one is better? And don’t forget to mention why, especially if you think HSBC’s $1 million to the wind is better. You’ll certainly be expected to defend that one.