Basel, January 10, 2006 - After completion of due diligence and an assessment of the potential benefits and risks of an acquisition, Novartis has decided not to make an offer for Berna Biotech AG.
Novartis announced in December that it was considering whether to acquire Berna Biotech AG after Crucell N.V., a Dutch biotechnology company, made an offer earlier in December to acquire the Swiss company through an all-share exchange offer.
About Novartis
Novartis AG (NYSE: NVS) is a world leader in pharmaceuticals and consumer health. In 2004, the Group's businesses achieved net sales of USD 28.2 billion and pro forma net income of USD 5.6 billion. The Group invested approximately USD 4.1 billion in R&D. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis Group companies employ about 91,700 people and operate in over 140 countries around the world.
For further information please consult http://www.novartis.com.
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Contacts
John Gilardi
Novartis Global Media Relations
+41 61 324 3018 (direct)
+41 79 596 1408 (mobile)
Corinne Hoff
Novartis Global Media Relations
+41 61 324 9577 (direct)
+41 79 248 5717 (mobile)
