Merck KGaA to Acquire Bio-Techne for $11.3bn in Cash to Boost Life Sciences

Key Facts

1Merck KGaA announced it will acquire Bio-Techne Corporation for $11.3 billion in cash, at $73 per share.

In a major life sciences expansion, German drugmaker Merck KGaA (MKGAF) has announced, according to reports, its acquisition of Bio-Techne Corporation for $11.3 billion in cash, at $73 per share. The deal aims to strengthen Merck's positions in high-growth areas including multi-omics, spatial biology, precision diagnostics, and cell and gene therapy.

Merck will fund the acquisition through available cash and new debt, with expectations to close by late 2026 or early 2027. The company targets €140 million in annual cost synergies, as the biotech sector continues to see active consolidation for innovation and scale. According to market data, Merck's stock (MKGAF) closed at $168.51 on June 26, 2026, having traded between $170.41 and $159.28 during the session.

Investors are now watching regulatory approvals needed to close the deal in the near term, as well as the performance of Merck's shares amid broader interest-rate expectations and macro data. Markets will also seek updates on the financing structure and its impact on debt levels and cash flow. Future catalysts could include potential divestitures or new partnerships following the deal's completion.