Further to recent speculation, Aviva plc (“Aviva”) confirms it is in discussions with AmerUs Group Co (“AmerUs”), which may or may not lead to the acquisition of AmerUs. A transaction, if agreed, is expected to be funded from a combination of Aviva's internal resources, external debt and a market placing of Aviva shares.
Further to recent speculation, Aviva plc (“Aviva”) confirms it is in discussions with AmerUs Group Co (“AmerUs”), which may or may not lead to the acquisition of AmerUs. A transaction, if agreed, is expected to be funded from a combination of Aviva's internal resources, external debt and a market placing of Aviva shares.
If a transaction is agreed, any equity placing will be accompanied by an update on Aviva's current trading.
These discussions are consistent with Aviva’s stated strategy of pursuing value creating acquisition opportunities in key growth segments of the major global long term savings markets.
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Enquiries:
Analysts
Charles Barrows, investor relations director +44 (0)20 7662 8115
Jessie Burrows, head of investor relations +44 (0)20 7662 2111
Media
Sue Winston, head of media relations +44 (0)20 7662 8221
Rob Bailhache, Financial Dynamics +44 (0)20 7269 7200
Notes to editors:
- Aviva is the world’s sixth-largest insurance group based on gross world-wide premiums and market capitalisation (at 31 December 2004); it is one of the leading providers of life and pensions in Europe and has substantial businesses in other markets around the world.
- Aviva’s principal business activities are long-term savings, fund management and general insurance, with worldwide total sales of Ł35 billion and assets under management of Ł317 billion at 31 December 2005.