GSK to acquire Human Genome Sciences for US$14.25 per share in cash

GlaxoSmithKline plc GSK and Human Genome Sciences HGSI today announced that the companies have entered into a definitive agreement under which GSK will acquire HGS for US$14.25 per share in cash. The transaction values HGS at approximately US$3.6 billion on an equity basis, or approximately US$3 billion net of cash and debt, and represents a premium of 99% to the HGS closing price of US$7.17 per share on 18 April 2012, the last day of trading before HGS publicly disclosed GSK's initial private offer. The Boards of Directors of both companies have approved the transaction. The transaction is well aligned with GSK's long-term strategy of delivering sustainable growth, simplifying GSK's business model, enhancing R&D returns and deploying capital with discipline. Through complete ownership of BENLYSTA, albiglutide and darapladib, GSK can simplify and optimize R&D, commercial and manufacturing operations to advance these products most effectively and efficiently while securing the full potential long-term value of the assets. GSK expects to achieve at least US$200 million in cost synergies to be fully realized by 2015, subject to appropriate consultation, and expects the transaction to be accretive to core earnings beginning in 2013. GSK also assessed the potential returns of this acquisition relative to its long-term share buyback program. As part of this ongoing program, GSK continues to expect to repurchase (GBP)2-2.5 billion in shares in 2012. Sir Andrew Witty, Chief Executive Officer of GSK, said: "We are pleased to have reached a mutually beneficial agreement with HGS on friendly terms and believe the combination of GSK and HGS represents clear financial and strategic logic for both companies and our respective shareholders. The transaction meets GSK's strict financial criteria for acquisitions, and we expect will deliver significant returns over the long-term. This is a natural next step in our nearly 20-year relationship with HGS, and we look forward to working with HGS to integrate our businesses and to realizing the full value of BENLYSTA, albiglutide, and darapladib for the benefit of patients and our shareholders."