Allen & Overy LLP has advised Merck with regard to a bridge financing supporting the acquisition of Sigma-Aldrich Corporation by Merck for a purchase price of USD  17 bn. (EUR  13.1 bn.). Closing of the transaction establishing one of the leading players in the global life science industry is expected mid-year 2015, subject to regulatory approvals, approval by a special meeting of the shareholders of Sigma-Aldrich and other customary closing conditions.

„We are very pleased to have advised Merck in respect of this important financing.“ said Allen & Overy Partner Dr. Neil George Weiand.

Dr. Friederike Rotsch (Group General Counsel, Head of Group Legal & Compliance (LE), Norbert Kaliwe and Gabriel Medynska acted as inhouse counsel to Merck.

Allen & Overy Partner Dr. Neil George Weiand, Counsel Dr. Mark Hallett and Dr. Alexander Schilling (all Banking and Finance, Frankfurt) acted for Merck.