Allergan (AGN, Financial) is a global specialty pharmaceutical company focusing on the development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of generic, brand name, biosimilar and over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical products. Shares of Allergan were volatile during the quarter, providing us the opportunity to meaningfully increase our position at attractive prices. Following several months of speculation, Pfizer and Allergan announced their intention to combine on November 23rd. Assuming the deal is consummated as presently structured, Allergan shareholders would receive 11.3 shares of the combined Pfizer-Allergan for each existing Allergan share. Potential tax and regulatory hurdles remain, but we are optimistic on Allergan’s business prospects in either scenario - standalone or in combination with Pfizer. We have generally positive impressions from ongoing diligence on Pfizer’s business.
From the Weitz Funds' Research Fund shareholder letter for fourth quarter 2015.
