The pop superstar is set to become the latest muso to sell off their music catalogue, with reports saying he’s nearing a US$200 million deal with Blackstone-backed Hipgnosis Songs Capital. Those in the know say that the deal – which would include Bieber’s recorded music catalogues and his publishing rights – ​​”would be the largest music-rights acquisition for Hipgnosis to date”, following its acquisition of Justin Timberlake and Leonard Cohen’s catalogues earlier this year. Several megastar musos have sold up in recent years for reasons including tax benefits, recouping pandemic losses, and industry uncertainties. But the catalogue-buying market has started cooling off thanks to increased asking prices and hefty taxes. The cash won’t go astray for Bieber – he was forced to take a break from touring this year due to a medical condition causing facial paralysis. #SquizShortcut