Chemie: BASF lotet Fusion mit Evonik aus – Aktien reagieren kräftig

Düsseldorf – BASF, the German chemical giant, reportedly reached out to Evonik, a specialty chemicals company, with the intention of acquiring it, according to the Financial Times (FT). The news outlet obtained the information from sources within the industry. BASF reportedly contacted both Evonik and its primary shareholder, the RAG Foundation.

However, there is currently no confirmed outcome, and it remains uncertain if a takeover will take place. BASF has already approached banks regarding a potential takeover and is still working on the plans. Although no definitive takeover offer has been reported, Evonik's shares surged in the MDax index by up to ten percent following the news.

In contrast, BASF shares dropped by up to 2.8 percent. Both companies, like the entire German chemical industry, are currently facing a crisis. High energy prices in Europe and mounting competition from Asia are putting pressure on the firms. Recently, Evonik announced plans to lay off 3,200 employees, many of whom were based in Germany.

However, production declines in Asia, caused by a lack of oil and gas due to the Iran war, have recently provided a temporary boost to Germany's chemical companies. Additionally, four banks are reportedly planning to bring BASF's agricultural division to the stock exchange in 2027.