Significant progress is being made in the multi-billion euro acquisition of German chemical producer Covestro by Abu Dhabi’s state-owned energy giant ADNOC. After months of regulatory challenges, participants are expressing genuine confidence for the first time, triggering enthusiastic market response.
Market Responds with Strong Gains
Covestro’s stock delivered its strongest trading performance in over a year, soaring 5.5 percent following growing optimism about the deal’s prospects. Market analyst Thomas Schulte-Vorwick of Metzler characterized the developments as “incrementally positive news” that improves the likelihood of successful deal completion.
The acquisition premium of €62 per share continues to offer Covestro investors an attractive premium compared to the current trading level of approximately €60. For ADNOC, securing Covestro would provide access to the company’s leading expertise in polyurethanes and polycarbonates—essential materials for automotive, construction, and electronics industries.
Regulatory Hurdles Addressed Through Concessions
The European Commission has been conducting intensive scrutiny of the €14.7 billion transaction under its Foreign Subsidies Regulation framework. Regulators have expressed concerns about potential unfair competition advantages stemming from state-backed financial support from the United Arab Emirates.
Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Covestro?
In response to these concerns, ADNOC is preparing to submit a package of concessions to EU regulators as early as next week. Key elements include:
* Conversion of a €1.2 billion capital increase into a shareholder loan at market terms
* Commitment to maintain Covestro’s technology and intellectual property within Europe
* Assurance addressing fears about potential technology transfer to the Gulf region
ADNOC Executive Expresses Confidence
Klaus Froehlich, Group Chief Investment Officer at ADNOC, struck an optimistic tone in comments to Handelsblatt, emphasizing his company’s long-term investment approach. “We are strategic, long-term investors. That’s why I’m fundamentally quite optimistic,” he stated.
Froehlich simultaneously cautioned against excessive demands from European regulators, noting the necessity for “a balance between legitimate requirements and excessive demands.” These comments arrive at a crucial juncture in the negotiation process, with regulatory approval representing the final significant obstacle to transaction completion.
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