Aurobindo Pharma clarifies on Zentiva deal; Here's what it said

Aurobindo Pharma on Friday, September 12, issued a clarification on media reports regarding the potential acquisition of Zentiva.

The Hyderabad-based drugmaker said the development around Zentiva's ownership change had already been publicly announced by Zentiva, Advent (its current owner), and US-based private equity firm GTCR.

"Zentiva, on September 11, announced that Advent has entered into a pact to sell Zentiva to GTCR," Aurobindo said in a stock exchange filing. The company added that such announcements could have a bearing on the price or volume movement of its securities.

Aurobindo assured investors that it remains in continuous compliance with SEBI's disclosure obligations and will update the market as required.

GTCR is close to acquiring Zentiva in a deal valued at €4.1 billion ($4.8 billion). The US-based buyout firm has reportedly outbid rival private equity players and pharmaceutical companies, emerging as the frontrunner to buy Zentiva from Advent . The deal has been finalised and is expected to be announced shortly.

Aurobindo Pharma was earlier seen as a potential bidder for Zentiva. On August 22, the company told CNBC-TV18 that discussions were at a very early stage and that Zentiva fit its criteria for inorganic growth. However, management had emphasised that it was too early to comment on any specific deal.

The company also reiterated that it continues to evaluate both organic and inorganic growth opportunities while being mindful of shareholder concerns and committed to not overpaying for acquisitions.

Advent had acquired Zentiva from French drugmaker Sanofi for €1.9 billion in 2018. Zentiva today manufactures a wide range of generic and over-the-counter medicines, operates in more than 30 countries, and employs over 5,000 people, according to its website.

On Friday, shares of Aurobindo Pharma Ltd. closed 1.37% lower at ₹1,094 on the NSE. The stock has declined 19% so far in 2025.