Waters Shareholders Vote in Favor of BD Business Combination as Deal Closes In

Layer2Observer · 2026-02-06T14:15:24+00:00

Waters Corporation's shareholders overwhelmingly approved the merger with Becton Dickinson's Biosciences unit, aiming for completion by February 9, 2026. This strategic move signals confidence in enhanced value through integrated offerings in the life sciences sector.

Layer2Observer

2026-02-06 14:15:24

Abstract generation in progress

Waters Corporation announced this week that shareholders have voted overwhelmingly in favor of the proposed business combination with Becton, Dickinson and Company’s Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions unit. The special shareholder meeting saw the merger proposal receive support from approximately 99 percent of shares voting in person or by proxy, paving the way for the transaction to reach completion.

Overwhelming Shareholder Support Secures Strategic Alignment

The nearly unanimous approval vote represents strong investor confidence in the strategic rationale behind the merger. Shareholders voted in favor of Waters issuing new common stock to BDX shareholders as consideration for the combination, marking a significant milestone in bringing together two leaders in life sciences and diagnostic solutions.

Transaction Poised for Imminent Closing

With shareholder approval secured, Waters is positioned to finalize the business combination on February 9, 2026, just days away from the announcement date. The accelerated timeline reflects both companies’ commitment to quickly realizing the synergies and operational efficiencies expected from the merger.

CEO Affirms Value Creation Strategy

“We are grateful for the continued support of our shareholders as we approach the completion of this transformative transaction,” said CEO Udit Batra. “This combination will create meaningful value for our patients, customers, employees, and shareholders by uniting complementary businesses and capabilities in the diagnostic and bioscience sectors.”

Market Response and Current Trading Status

At the time of the announcement, Waters stock (WAT) was trading at $390.54, reflecting a marginal decline of 0.09 percent, while Becton Dickinson (BDX) traded at $203.36, down 0.02 percent on the New York Stock Exchange. The combination is expected to unlock substantial value through integrated product offerings and expanded market reach in the global life sciences market.

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