Aker ASA Announces Conditional Share Lending Agreement for Merger Completion with Aker Horizons
On June 11, 2025, Aker ASA officially reported a newly established conditional share lending agreement critical to support its ongoing merger with Aker Horizons ASA's subsidiary, Aker Horizons Holding AS. The merger announcement dated May 9 revealed the structural terms of the transaction, whereby Aker Horizons shareholders, aside from Aker Capital AS, will receive a combination of cash and Aker shares upon completion. This strategic move is designed to enhance stakeholder value and ensure a seamless merger process.
To facilitate this exchange, TRG Holding AS, recognized as Aker's largest shareholder, pledged to supply Aker with up to 430,000 shares. These shares will ease the completion of the consideration share settlement as part of the merger's finalization. It's significant to note that the number of borrowed shares will adjust based on the quantity of treasury shares that Aker possesses once the merger reaches completion, enabling Aker to settle in an efficient manner.
The conditional agreement stipulates that any borrowed shares must be returned to TRG Holding no later than December 31, 2025. This arrangement emphasizes Aker's commitment to maintaining robust corporate governance by complying fully with the regulatory requirements set forth under Article 19 of the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
The district of Fornebu in Norway serves as the backdrop for this significant corporate maneuver. Aker ASA’s actions lead to a reshaped landscape in the energy and resource sectors, aligning its portfolio with Aker Horizons' green initiatives aimed at accelerating the transition towards renewable energy technologies.
Atle Kigen, Head of Media Relations and Public Affairs for Aker ASA, stated that this merger is a landmark step towards crafting a diversified enterprise that leverages both companies' strengths and recognizes the importance of sustainable solutions in the modern economy. Aker ASA is optimistic that the merger will position it to take greater strides in the rapidly evolving market for sustainable energy solutions.
The Chief Financial Officer of Aker ASA, Svein Oskar Stoknes, highlighted the financial advantages anticipated from this merger, pointing out that the convergence of resources will motivate innovation and improve operational efficiencies. This merger is viewed not just as a financial transaction, but as a strategic alignment aimed at establishing a comprehensive approach to tackling the growing challenges of climate change and energy resource management.
Market observers are keenly watching this merger unfold, anticipating that it will set a precedence for future mergers and acquisitions in the energy sector, particularly those that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. With such high levels of interest, investors are encouraged to keep track of announcements from Aker ASA, as they continue to adapt and respond to market dynamics.
In conclusion, this merger stands as a pivotal movement in Aker ASA’s long-term strategy, further enabling the company to establish itself as a leader in sustainable energy solutions while fostering shareholder value in the evolving ecosystem of energy production. As we move forward, Aker ASA will provide regular updates to the market regarding the progress of the merger and its implications for stakeholders.