Roche has raised its offer for the gene sequencing firm Illumina.
The Swiss firm has raised its offer from $44.50 per share to $51, valuing the deal at more than $6bn (£3.8bn).
Roche hopes the new bid will win over Illumina shareholders who gather for the annual general meeting next month.
The purchase of Illumina would help Roche build its personalised healthcare business, as Illumina's gene sequencing technology can identify which treatments suit different patients.
Illumina's management rejected Roche's initial offer made in January, so the Swiss pharmaceuticals giant has now taken its offer directly to shareholders.
"Based on our discussions with Illumina shareholders we have seen interest to accelerate the takeover process," said Roche chief executive Severin Schwan.
"Roche's preference continues to be a negotiated transaction. We look forward to the possibility of a swift completion that offers immediate value to Illumina's shareholders."
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