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Strategies & Market Trends : Speculating in Takeover Targets -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: richardred who wrote (542)	12/10/2004 2:25:28 AM
From: richardred	Respond to of 7265

Merck KGaA Acquires Generics Market Leader in Scandinavia - Pfizer's NM Pharma business acquired for EUR 54 million - Merck to be Number One player in fast-growing Nordic Generics market - Strong operational platform established for future growth Darmstadt, Germany - Merck KGaA announced today that it will acquire most of NM Pharma, the generics business of Pfizer in Scandinavia, for a purchase prize of EUR 53.8 million. The transaction will be closed as soon as all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. By acquiring NM Pharma, Merck Generics consolidates its leading position and will be the number one player in the Nordic generics market. With headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, the acquired business achieved sales of EUR 39.1 million in 2003. After closing of the transaction, Merck will integrate the product portfolio into its own existing Merck Generics infrastructure in Scandinavia. Because of the strong NM brand recognition, the new company will operate under the name of Merck NM. In 2003, the generics market in the Nordic countries represented a volume of approximately EUR 600 million, with an annual growth rate of 9 percent. "The acquisition of NM Pharma provides Merck Generics with a clear number one position in Scandinavia and a strong potential for future growth", said Hank Klakurka, CEO of the Merck Generics Group. "It is a perfect example for our strategy to grow organically as well as through attractive acquisitions." About Merck Generics Founded in 1984 and a member of the Merck Group since 1994, the Merck Generics Group is one of the fastest-growing generics businesses in the world. With global sales approaching USD 2 billion in 2004, Merck Generics ranks among the top five companies worldwide in this highly competitive market. Generics sales increased from roughly EUR 100 million in 1995 to EUR 1,5 billion in 2003, mainly through strong organic growth and supported by acquisitions. The business focuses on the development, manufacture and sale of generic and specialized pharmaceuticals and holds leading positions in major markets. With a broad portfolio of products covering nearly all the important therapeutic areas, Merck Generics is represented in more than 90 countries world-wide. All Merck Press Releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Website. Please go to www.subscribe.merck.de to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service. In case of questions, please contact the Media Hotline at: +49 (0)6151 72 5000. Merck is a global pharmaceutical and chemical company with sales of EUR 7.2 billion in 2003, a history that began in 1668, and a future shaped by 28,300 employees in 56 countries. Its success is characterized by innovations from entrepreneurial employees. Merck's operating activities come under the umbrella of Merck KGaA, in which the Merck family holds a 74% interest and free shareholders own the remaining 26%. The former U.S. subsidiary, Merck & Co., has been completely independent of the Merck Group since 1917. Merck KGaA Germany

To: richardred who wrote (542)	12/24/2004 9:54:22 AM
From: richardred	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 7265

BNT showing some good upward price action lately. The Perrigo BNT connection now has an Israeli tie. Remember Perrigo Co. is buying pharmaceutical company Agis Industries Ltd. for about $818 million. BNT just renewed it's rights plan to protect shareholder from unfair treatment. Director MICHAEL MCGOVERN bought a big portion of his 2 million shares plus around 5.00. It's been awhile since there have been insiders sales. Those sales were in the 14 range over a years ago. There are a few rumors flying on the YH BNT board about Teva. I'm in before the rumors. Prospects look much improved for BNT if nothing develops. Merry Christmas to All.