Finance

Merck KGaA says high asset prices call for prudent M&A approach

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 23, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 27, 2026

Add as preferred source on Google
Merck KGaA CEO Belen Garijo discusses prudent M&A strategy at Davos - Global Banking & Finance Review
CEO Belen Garijo of Merck KGaA outlines the company's cautious M&A approach amid high asset prices during the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasizing organic growth.
Global Banking & Finance Awards 2026 — Call for Entries

DAVOS, Switzerland (Reuters) - The CEO of Germany's Merck KGaA said a recovery in sales growth at its existing business means it can take a cautious approach when it comes to buying other companies,

Merck KGaA Adopts Cautious M&A Strategy Amid High Prices

DAVOS, Switzerland (Reuters) - The CEO of Germany's Merck KGaA said a recovery in sales growth at its existing business means it can take a cautious approach when it comes to buying other companies, which are expensively priced.

"We need to stay prudent and patient because our business is returning to growth organically. We are not in a rush," CEO Belen Garijo told Reuters in an interview on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

Merck is focused in particular on strengthening its Life Science unit, a maker of lab gear and supplies, but asset prices when measured as a multiple of earnings are high, she added.

(Reporting by Divya Chowdhury in Davos; Writing by Ludwig Burger; Editing by Friederike Heine)

Key Takeaways

  • Merck KGaA is taking a cautious approach to M&A.
  • High asset prices influence Merck's acquisition strategy.
  • Focus remains on strengthening the Life Science unit.
  • Organic growth is returning for Merck KGaA.
  • CEO Belen Garijo emphasizes patience in acquisitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
The main topic is Merck KGaA's cautious M&A strategy due to high asset prices, focusing on organic growth.
Why is Merck KGaA cautious about M&A?
Merck KGaA is cautious about M&A because asset prices are high, and they are focusing on organic growth.
What is Merck KGaA focusing on?
Merck KGaA is focusing on strengthening its Life Science unit and achieving organic growth.

Related Articles

More from Finance

Explore more articles in the Finance category