On March 8, 2018, Cigna (NYSE:CI) entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Express Scripts Holding Company for $67B, or $92 per share. This buyout would broaden the portfolio of Cigna’s specialty services and boost their focus on advanced analytics. Combining the companies’ strengths will allow them to use a patient’s medical history to improve treatments and lower costs while simplifying the healthcare supply chain. The merger consideration will consist of $48.75 in cash and 0.2434 shares of stock of the combined company per ESRX share. Upon closing the transaction, Cigna shareholders will own approximately 64% of the company and Express Scripts shareholders will own 36%. Current CEO of Cigna, David Cordani, will lead the combined company with Tim Wentworth, current CEO of Express Scripts, transitioning to President of Express Scripts, Inc. The deal is being closely watched and scrutinized by the Department of Justice who recently asked both companies for additional information. The Justice Department successfully blocked both Aetna from buying Humana Inc. and Anthem Inc. from acquiring Cigna in 2017, but Cigna is still confident in their ability to gain regulatory approval and complete the acquisition by the end of 2018.
From Jeff Auxier (Trades, Portfolio)'s first-quarter 2018 shareholder letter.
