Lafayette Digital Raises $287.5 Million to Target Technology Sector
Miami, Monday, 12 January 2026.
On January 12, 2026, Lafayette Digital Acquisition Corp. I (Nasdaq: ZKPU) finalized its initial public offering, raising $287.5 million to fund future tech-sector acquisitions. The Miami-based special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) sold 28.75 million units at $10.00 each, a total bolstered by the underwriters fully exercising their over-allotment option. Led by CEO Samuel A. Jernigan IV, the firm intends to deploy this capital toward a merger or acquisition, specifically targeting the technology and fintech industries. This successful closing marks a notable data point in the 2026 financial landscape, suggesting a calculated return of investor appetite for blank-check companies with disciplined focus areas. While currently trading as units, the securities will eventually split into Class A ordinary shares and warrants. This liquidity event provides Lafayette Digital with a substantial war chest to identify a private target ready for the public markets.
Offering Structure and Warrant Terms
The finalized offering structure reflects robust demand, as the gross proceeds of $287.5 million include the full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option [1][2]. Specifically, the company sold 28,750,000 units at an offering price of $10.00 per unit [4]. This total comprises the initial base offering plus an additional 3,750,000 units purchased by the underwriters to cover over-allotments [2][4]. BTIG, LLC acted as the sole book-running manager for the transaction [1][3].
Strategic Focus and Market Environment
Lafayette Digital Acquisition Corp. I, organized as a Cayman Islands exempted company, has explicitly directed its search toward the technology industry [2]. While the mandate allows for broad exploration within the tech sector, there is a particular emphasis on financial technology (fintech) businesses [3]. This focus aligns with the background of the management team and targets a sector that has seen significant consolidation and valuation resets in recent years [3]. The company’s securities began trading on the Nasdaq on Friday, January 9, 2026, ahead of today’s formal closing [3].
Leadership and Trading Mechanics
The company is steered by Samuel A. Jernigan IV, who serves as both Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors [1]. Under his leadership, the firm will now commence the search for a target business to take public. Currently, the units are listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “ZKPU” [1]. In the future, once the securities begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to trade under the symbols “ZKP” and “ZKPW,” respectively [1][4]. The company has also engaged Loeb & Loeb LLP and Kirkland & Ellis LLP as legal counsel to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the de-SPAC process [1].