On 25 January 2018, Clariant confirmed the acquisition of a 24.99 % equity stake in the company by Sabic. The acquisition of these stakes, which were previously held by the investors White Tale – through Corvex Management – and 40 North, makes Sabic the largest Clariant shareholder. White Tale had previously prevented a proposed USD 20 billion merger of Clariant and Huntsman in 2017.
Clariant said it intends to engage with Sabic over the coming weeks in order to discuss the new situation and explore possible ways to create value. The two companies are also partners in the catalyst joint venture Scientific Design. Clariant said it will also continue the existing dialogue with all its other shareholders.