Basell acquisition of Huntsman approved by the two boards

27-Jun-07

Basell, global leader in polyolefins' technology, production and marketing, and Huntsman Corporation, one of the world's largest manufacturers and marketers of differentiated chemicals and pigments, have signed a definitive agreement pursuant to which Basell will acquire Huntsman in a transaction valued at approximately US$9.6 billion, including the assumption of debt. The transaction was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both Basell and Huntsman. Huntsman's Board of Directors approved the transaction agreement at the recommendation of a Transaction Committee comprised of Huntsman independent directors. Under the terms of the agreement, Basell will acquire all of the outstanding common stock of Huntsman for US$25.25 per share in cash. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval in the U.S. and in Europe, as well as the approval of Huntsman shareholders. Entities controlled by MatlinPatterson and the Huntsman family, who collectively own 57% of Huntsman's common stock, have agreed to approve the transaction. Closing is expected in Q4-07. In 2006, Basell and Huntsman had combined revenues of more than US$26 billion.