8-KLeadership ChangesMaterial AgreementsCorporate Changes+2

BECTON DICKINSON & CO 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Apr 24, 2017)

Filed April 24, 2017For Securities:BDX

Summary

Becton, Dickinson and Company (BDX) has announced a significant strategic move with the signing of a definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger to acquire C.R. Bard, Inc. (Bard) for a combination of cash and stock. This transaction, valued at approximately $24 billion based on the provided consideration details, is expected to create a leading global medical technology company, enhancing BD's portfolio in areas like urology, oncology, and surgical specialty products. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and shareholder approvals, with an anticipated closing in the latter half of fiscal year 2017. Financing for the cash portion of the acquisition is secured through a $15.7 billion bridge loan facility, indicating robust financial backing for the deal. The filing also disclosed an internal change, with Thomas E. Polen appointed as President of BD, previously serving as Executive Vice President and President of the Medical Segment. This merger represents a major step in BD's growth strategy, aiming to leverage synergies and expand its market presence.

Key Highlights

  • 1BDX enters into a definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger to acquire C.R. Bard, Inc. (Bard).
  • 2The acquisition consideration consists of $222.93 in cash and 0.5077 shares of BDX common stock per Bard share.
  • 3The transaction is valued at approximately $24 billion, creating a larger entity in the medical technology sector.
  • 4BDX has secured $15.7 billion in bridge loan commitments to finance the cash portion of the acquisition.
  • 5The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals (antitrust) and adoption by Bard's stockholders.
  • 6Thomas E. Polen has been appointed President of BDX.
  • 7The deal is expected to close in the latter half of fiscal year 2017, subject to approvals and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The acquisition is a significant financial undertaking for BDX, valued at approximately $24 billion. The company has secured $15.7 billion in financing through bridge loans for the cash component. Investors should anticipate a pro forma combined entity with a strengthened product portfolio and market position, but also increased debt and integration costs. Detailed financial projections and synergy estimates will likely be provided in the upcoming S-4 filing.

The acquisition of Bard is expected to significantly enhance BD's presence in key growth areas, including urology, oncology, and surgical specialty products. It aims to create a more diversified and comprehensive medical technology offering, potentially leading to cross-selling opportunities, expanded market reach, and realization of operational synergies.

The merger is subject to several customary closing conditions. These include the adoption of the merger agreement by Bard's stockholders, the SEC's declaration of effectiveness for BD's Form S-4 registration statement, approval for listing of BD stock on the NYSE, obtaining necessary antitrust approvals in the U.S. and other jurisdictions, and the accuracy of representations and warranties from both parties.

Yes, the filing notes the appointment of Thomas E. Polen as President of BDX. Additionally, BD and Bard have agreed that the Chairman of Bard's board and one independent Bard director will join the BD board of directors following the merger, indicating an integration of leadership.