Nielsen Ups IPO Goal, Adds New TV Ratings

Nielsen has increased the amount it wants to raise by selling stock to $2.01bn, in its initial public offering (IPO) filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm has also added two new categories for measuring TV viewing.

In June, Nielsen announced plans to raise up to $1.75bn in the IPO, which it said would be used to pay down debt and for 'general corporate purposes'.

In the latest S-1 filing, the company has upped this amount, explaining that most of the proceeds will be used to pay off the equity firms that took it private in 2006.

In addition to a $103m 'sponsors fee', millions of dollars of stock options will be granted to its senior managers, including CEO David Calhoun, who will receive a multimillion dollar bonus in the form of shares of stock and deferred compensation.

Once the IPO is complete, Nielsen will trade under the NLSN symbol.

Separately, Nielsen has added two new categories for measuring national TV ratings. Based on the results of a recently completed review, the firm has added 'PC /Internet', for those watching programs online; and 'Age of Householder', providing ratings for those under 25 and between 25 and 34.

Web site: www.nielsen.com .