Materials Science

KCC to acquire Momentive

M omentive Performance Materials and SJL Partners, KCC and Wonik QnC (collectively, the “Investor Group”) have entered into a definitive merger agreement, whereby the Investor Group will acquire Momentive in a transaction valued at approximately $3.1 billion, including the assumption of net debt, pension and OPEB liabilities. The three members of the Investor Group consortium are technology leaders in South Korea.

Based in Waterford, New York, Momentive develops and manufactures specialty silicones and silanes, as well as fused quartz and specialty ceramics products. Momentive has a more than 75-year track record of creating products and solutions to serve more than 4,000 customers in over 100 countries. The Company has a global network of 24 production sites and 12 research and development facilities.

“Today’s announcement is the result of a thoughtful and comprehensive review of the strategic growth and value creation opportunities available to the Company,” said Jack Boss, Chief Executive Officer and President at Momentive. “We believe this is a great outcome for all of our stakeholders, delivering maximum value to our stockholders while positioning the Company for long-term growth and future job creation that will benefit our talented employees across the globe, customers and suppliers. The transaction will not only allow our silicones and quartz businesses to benefit from KCC and Wonik’s industry expertise but will also further enhance Momentive’s global leadership position by expanding our portfolio of products, broadening our geographic reach and strengthening our financial position. We look forward to partnering with the exceptional teams at KCC, Wonik and SJL after the transaction closes to continue providing specialized products and services to our global customers.”

Under the terms of the agreement, the Investor Group will assume Momentive’s net debt obligations subject to minimum closing cash requirements of $250 million. Momentive stockholders will receive $32.50 for each share of common stock they own subject to minimum closing cash requirements.

The transaction will be financed through a combination of cash and new debt that will be put in place at closing. The transaction is not subject to any financing contingency and is expected to close in the first half of 2019, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.