Recent insider transactions in Quebec reveal significant financial maneuvers. Mario Plourde retired from Cascades with over $14 million, while the Caisse de dépôt plans strategic investments, including a stake in Brookfield’s $13 billion pipeline acquisition. Executives at Power Corporation also profited from rising stock values. L’Oréal’s SalonCentric acquired Concept JP, and iA Financial Group’s Alain Bergeron gained $1.3 million from options. Rodeo FX expanded by acquiring Mikros Animation, and Savaria’s Marcel Bourassa invested heavily in his company amid stock declines.
Insights into Insider Transactions in Quebec
In this article, we delve into the latest insider transactions and investments within Quebec-based companies.
Mario Plourde’s Successful Transition
Mario Plourde’s retirement is off to a prosperous start. After stepping down from the top management position at Cascades last year, he walked away with a remarkable $10 million. Having dedicated 40 years to the paper products company, Mr. Plourde served as CEO since 2013. Prior to his departure, he secured over $6.1 million consisting of a retirement allowance and profit sharing, in addition to $3.6 million for an 18-month consulting agreement that will conclude in June 2026. Altogether, the executive amassed upwards of $14 million in 2024.
Significant Movements by Caisse de dépôt
The Caisse de dépôt is making strategic moves. The Canadian-American enterprise Brookfield is set to acquire the American Colonial pipeline for an impressive $13 billion. This deal will yield more than $2 billion for the Caisse’s 17% stake in the infrastructure, which was originally bought for roughly $830 million back in 2011. Additionally, the Caisse has been active in the marketplace this week, planning to invest an undisclosed amount in a new subsidiary of Rogers Communications, along with other Canadian institutional investors. Furthermore, it will become a shareholder of Synex, a Quebec-based insurance brokerage, partnering with the California firm Ares.
Profits for Power Corporation Executives
Executives at Power Corporation are reaping rewards. CEO Jeffrey Orr realized a profit exceeding $4.5 million through the exercise of stock options last week. Meanwhile, Paul Desmarais III, the first vice-president, benefitted from gains of over $405,000 via his options. Power’s stock has surged approximately 14% since the year’s onset.
L’Oréal Expands with Local Acquisition
L’Oréal’s subsidiary, SalonCentric, has made headlines this week with its acquisition of Concept JP. Established in 1996 by Jean-Pierre Perron, Concept JP is a prominent distributor of hair care products, including the renowned Redken brand, and operates 11 professional boutiques across Quebec.
iA Financial Group’s Investment Success
Alain Bergeron, the head of investments at iA Financial Group, recently enjoyed a profit of over $1.3 million by exercising options from the Quebec insurer in the past few weeks. Notably, iA’s stock has appreciated nearly 50% in the last 52 weeks.
Rodeo FX Expands Its Portfolio
The Montreal-based visual effects company Rodeo FX has successfully acquired Mikros Animation, a studio that was formerly under the ownership of the financially-challenged French group Technicolor. Mikros is known for its work on popular projects such as PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie and the latest Ninja Turtles film. Founded in 2006 by Sébastien Moreau, Rodeo FX has also contributed to acclaimed series like Game of Thrones and Stranger Things, as well as the first two Dune films directed by Denis Villeneuve.
Marcel Bourassa Invests in Savaria
Marcel Bourassa, the chairman of the board at Savaria, made a significant investment by purchasing over $825,000 worth of shares in the residential elevator manufacturer last month. The company’s stock has faced challenges, declining more than 20% since the start of the year, partly due to the ongoing trade war. Mr. Bourassa is the largest shareholder of Savaria, holding approximately 19% of the company’s shares.