Merck KGaA to acquire Silence Therapeutics for $1.3 billion
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Merck KGaA announced on October 19, 2026 that it will acquire UK-based siRNA company Silence Therapeutics, paying $20 in cash per U.S.-listed share. The deal values Silence at an equity value of about $1.3 billion and an enterprise value of about $1.1 billion, with the offer representing a 130% premium and an 82% premium to the 30-day average price. Shareholders representing 14% of voting power have already agreed to the transaction. Merck KGaA expects the deal to close in the first quarter of 2027. The acquisition marks a significant bet on RNA interference technology and expands the German company's presence in hematology.
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- BioSpacePickMerck KGaA makes noise in hematology with $1.1B Silence buy
Merck KGaA will acquire UK siRNA company Silence Therapeutics for an enterprise value of approximately $1.1 billion and an equity value of approximately $1.3 billion. The offer of $20 per share represents an 82% premium to the 30-day average price. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027.
- BioPharma DiveMerck KGaA bets on RNAi with $1.3B Silence buyout
Merck KGaA announced on October 19, 2026 that it will acquire UK-based Silence Therapeutics for approximately $1.3 billion, paying $20 in cash per U.S.-listed share, a 130% premium. Key shareholders representing 14% of voting power have agreed, and the company expects the deal to close in the first quarter of 2027.
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