Forward Industries Sweetens SkyAI Takeover Offer to 50% Premium

Forward Industries has increased its takeover offer for SkyAI, suggesting a 50% premium over its previous proposal. The renewed offer aims to value SkyAI at approximately $2.13 per share, up from the previously stated $1.42. Investors would have the option of receiving Forward shares, cash, or a combination of both. The new proposal is non-binding and requires approval from both regulators and SkyAI's shareholders by September 25.

SkyAI's board has until the same date to respond. The proposal is contingent on regulatory approvals and a shareholder vote. Forward Industries CEO Ryan Navi stated that the updated bid is based on confidence in the potential value creation from the combination. The company's statement came a day after SkyAI rejected the previously offered deal, maintaining its intention to remain independent.

SkyAI's independent Special Committee unanimously concluded that Forward's initial all-stock proposal was not in the shareholders' best interest. SkyAI holds over two million SOL in its treasury with no outstanding debt, generating more than $12 million in staking revenue through June 30. The company reported a 6.01% annualized gross yield from its validator, surpassing the Solana validator average of 5.57%.

The renewed offer for SkyAI takes place three days before the company's annual meeting on September 18, where shareholders will vote on five director nominees and the company's 2026 equity incentive plan. Forward Industries shares are currently trading at $6.63, down 4.6% today, while SkyAI shares are at $1.30, down more than 8%.