Oregon data center company files bankruptcy after $100 million ‘Game of War’ dispute

In this article, Adam Stein-Sapir of Pioneer Funding, LLC, identifies the bankruptcy filing of Peak Hosting.

Article Link: https://www.oregonlive.com/silicon-forest/2016/06/oregon_data_center_company_fil.html

Summary

Peak Hosting, an Oregon-based data center company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after a significant client, Machine Zone, terminated their services. Machine Zone, known for the “Game of War” app, parted ways with Peak Hosting following a two-hour game outage blamed on a software bug. The companies are now embroiled in a legal battle, with Peak Hosting claiming Machine Zone owes them nearly $100 million, while Machine Zone counters with allegations of Peak’s management incompetency and fraudulent practices. Despite the bankruptcy and workforce reduction, Peak’s chief restructuring officer asserts the company is now stable and generating positive cash flow.

  • Peak Hosting filed for bankruptcy after losing Machine Zone as a client and laid off 135 workers.
  • The legal dispute involves a $100 million claim by Peak against Machine Zone, and counterclaims by Machine Zone for damages due to alleged incompetency.
  • Peak Hosting’s bankruptcy filing lists assets and liabilities in the range of $100 million to $500 million, with the intention to restructure and continue operations.

Q&A

What are the implications of a company filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy?

Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows a company to reorganize its debts and business affairs with the goal of becoming profitable again. It provides the company with protection from creditors while it restructures, which can include downsizing operations, renegotiating debts, and selling assets. For more information on bankruptcy proceedings, you can visit Pioneer Funding LLC’s bankruptcy overview.

How does a significant client loss lead to bankruptcy?

Losing a significant client, especially one that constitutes a major portion of a company’s revenue, can lead to financial instability. For Peak Hosting, Machine Zone accounted for 80% of its business. The sudden termination of their contract and the subsequent loss of revenue made it difficult for Peak to cover its operational costs and investments, leading to the filing for bankruptcy protection.

What are the potential outcomes of the legal dispute between Peak Hosting and Machine Zone?

The legal dispute could result in a settlement or a court judgment in favor of one of the parties. If Peak Hosting prevails, they may receive compensation that could help pay off their debts and continue operations. Conversely, if Machine Zone wins, Peak may have to pay damages, which could further complicate their bankruptcy proceedings. The outcome will depend on the merits of the case and the evidence presented by both sides. For insights into the risks involved in such legal disputes, one can refer to Pioneer Funding LLC’s article on the risks of selling and buying bankruptcy claims.

Adam Stein-Sapir

Adam Stein-Sapir

Adam is a seasoned Wall Street veteran with over two decades of experience, primarily focused on capital raising, M&A, LBOs, and restructurings. He began his career at CIBC World Markets in the leveraged finance group, leading over $3 billion in capital initiatives and pioneering the U.S. Income Trust offering for Centerplate. Later, he contributed to Fortress Investment Group’s direct lending team. Co-founding Pioneer in 2009, Adam has navigated the acquisition of bankruptcy claims in over 100 cases, holding significant committee roles in high-profile restructurings. His insights have been featured in major publications such as the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg. Adam holds both a B.S. in Economics, magna cum laude, and an MBA from University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School.
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