BASF to acquire biotech firm Verenium

BASF Corporation, the US affiliate of the German chemicals major BASF AG, has entered into an agreement to commence a cash tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of common stock of the biotechnology company Verenium Corporation for $ 4 per share. Based on all outstanding shares and including all net financial liabilities, the enterprise value would be approximately $ 62 million (approximately Euro 48 million). Verenium is based in San Diego, California, and generated sales of $ 57 million in 2012. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2013. BASF will finance the transaction out of operating cash.
 
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Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts, enabling or accelerating biological and chemical processes. They are used in the development of sustainable solutions in a variety of applications, eg detergents, human and animal nutrition. Combining Verenium’s scientific and technological excellence with BASF’s enzyme activities and its global access into all relevant markets will strengthen BASF’s footprint in the strategic enzyme growth market.