Clariant and Huntsman Corporation have jointly announced that they have mutually terminated their proposed merger of equals. The decision was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Clariant and Huntsman.

In a joint statement, Peter R. Huntsman, President and CEO of Huntsman, and Hariolf Kottmann, CEO of Clariant, stated: “We remain convinced that the proposed merger of equals as agreed to on May 21, 2017, would have been in the long-term best interests of all of our shareholders.”

“However, given the continued accumulation of Clariant shares by activist investor White Tale Holdings and its opposition to the transaction, which is now supported by some other shareholders, we believe that there is simply too much uncertainty as to whether Clariant will be able to secure the two-thirds shareholder approval that is required to approve the transaction under Swiss law.”

High level of disruption

“Under these circumstances and in light of the high level of disruption and uncertainty that has been created for both companies, we have jointly decided to terminate the merger agreement. This will allow both companies to focus again fully on their respective stand-alone strategies in the best interests of the companies and their shareholders, associates, and other stakeholders,” continues the statement.

“We maintain a great respect for one another, and we want to recognize and express our mutual and deep appreciation for the efforts and incredible commitment demonstrated by the associates of each company over the past several months."

The Termination Agreement foresees no payment of a break fee on either side. Clariant, therefore, avoids paying both the US$ 210 million deal breakage fee and the US$ 60 million EGM non-approval fee as foreseen in the Merger Agreement.

Missed opportunity

Following a thorough analysis of all strategic alternatives, Clariant's Board of Directors and Executive Committee unanimously considered the merger with Huntsman to be the best available option to further develop the company and increase the long-term value for all stakeholders.

“We regret the missed opportunity for value creation and thank our shareholders for their support. The Board of Directors, our Chief Executive Officer and our Executive Committee will now focus on our proven strategy to further strengthen the company's market position as a globally leading specialty chemicals company,” said Rudolf Wehrli, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Growth strategy

While the merger would have enabled Clariant to speed up its strategy, the company says it has the utmost confidence in continuing its own path towards the goal of reaching a position in the top tier of the specialty chemicals industry.

The company says the success of its strategy is evidenced by a positive track record of increased profitability and enterprise value, a stronger portfolio which continues to grow, and leadership positions in innovation and sustainability. These elements will continue to be the foundation of Clariant's profitable growth.

“While White Tale's position on the merger has been different from ours, we share a common interest in increasing Clariant's value. We are committed to achieving this through a continuation of our existing and successful long-term growth strategy. That said, we will continue our dialogue with all our stakeholders,” commented Clariant's CEO Hariolf Kottmann.

www.clariant.com

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