Germany’s Merck KGaA is purchasing Sigma-Aldrich for $17 billion.
German pharmaceutical company Merck KGaA agreed to purchase life sciences company Sigma-Aldrich for $17 billion, according to The New York Times. Citing Merck, the article described the transaction as a “quantum leap” for the company’s life sciences business. The deal is expected to give Merck greater presence in North America and in Asian markets.
Merck will pay $140 a share in cash to purchase all outstanding shares of Sigma-Aldrich. According to the The New York Times, the deal values Sigma-Allen at approximately $17 billion. The deal is expected to close in the middle of next year.
