Evonik Industries

Boards and chief financial officers of Evonik and BASF reportedly met for talks amid the struggle over a possible takeover. After a strong quarterly result, Evonik stresses its independence but does not rule out informational and confidential exchanges with interested parties. BASF continues to pursue merger plans to become more competitive internationally; details of the meeting were not disclosed. » More on wiwo.de

Interim CEO Claus Rettig rejects BASF’s latest €24 offer and emphasizes that Evonik is focusing on specialties rather than building a conglomerate. Evonik plans portfolio clean‑ups such as the spin‑out step in Marl, intends to reinvest proceeds into its core business and growth, and keeps acquisition options in view to play a consolidating role in the industry. The company rules out so‑called poison pills and points to the decisive position of the RAG‑Stiftung as anchor shareholder as well as antitrust hurdles for large mergers. » More on faz.net

Evonik rejected an increased takeover offer from BASF of €24 per share (around €11 billion) and emphasized that it is better positioned on its own; talks remain confidential. Strong Q3 figures bolster Evonik’s position: sales rose 13% to €3.8 billion, adjusted operating profit increased 40% to €629 million, but net result showed a loss of €53 million due to provisions. Evonik plans savings through 2029 and the reduction of 3,200 jobs, while simultaneously investing in the Essen site (new specialty silicone plant for €52 million). The RAG-Stiftung holds around 43% of the shares, and political actors in NRW have expressed concern about jobs and locations in the Ruhr area. » More on tagesschau.de

Evonik reports adjusted EBITDA of €629 million for the third quarter (+40%) and revenue up 13% to €3.8 billion. Management raised the 2026 outlook and expects the upper half of the EBITDA range of €2–2.2 billion. CEO Claus Rettig emphasizes the independence strategy and is relying on restructurings, cost‑saving programs and divestment processes (Oxeno, Syneqt) to boost returns and growth, while the company strengthens its position in the takeover battle with BASF. » More on wiwo.de

Evonik reviewed a letter from BASF and decided not to enter into negotiations over a takeover, opting to continue developing as an independent company. A purely informational and confidential exchange with BASF, however, remains possible. BASF had offered €24 per share, representing a premium of almost 40 percent, and emphasized commitments to employees and sites, including a ban on dismissals until 2032. Stakeholders such as the RAG-Stiftung, which holds around 43 percent of Evonik shares, play an important role in assessing any offer. » More on finanzen.net