6-K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
Form 6-K
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
February 28th, 2007
SCOR
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its chapter)
1, Avenue du Général de Gaulle
92074 Paris La Défense Cedex, France
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form
20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F þ Form 40-F o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by
Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by
Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form
is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes o No þ
If Yes is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule
12g3-2(b): Not Applicable.
Attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein is the registrants press release titled SCOR
and Converium creating together a top 5 Reinsurer, issued on February 26, 2007.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Signature
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused
this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Dated February 28th, 2007
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SCOR
(Registrant)
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By: |
/s/ MARCEL KAHN
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Marcel Kahn |
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Chief Financial Officer |
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Exhibit 99.1
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, JAPAN AND AUSTRALIA
26 February, 2007
Converium and SCOR : creating together a Top 5 reinsurer
SCOR announces a tender offer for Converiums outstanding shares
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Voluntary public tender offer for 67.1% of Converiums publicly owned shares not already owned
or acquired by SCOR |
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For every Converium share, 0.5 new SCOR share plus CHF4 in cash, equivalent to CHF21.1 per
Converium share based on closing share prices as at 16 February 2007 |
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Attractive 27% premium on Converiums last unaffected share price as of 4 January 2007 |
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Offer subject to 50.01% acceptance level on a fully diluted basis, SCOR shareholder approval
and other customary conditions |
Strategic rationale
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Compelling combination in a consolidating sector |
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Creating a Top 5 global multi-line reinsurer with leading positions in life reinsurance,
specialty lines, large facultative accounts and treaties |
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Leveraging complementary markets and business lines |
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Benefiting clients and brokers |
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Diversifying risks and improving earnings visibility |
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Providing attractive opportunities for management and employees |
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Accelerating SCORs proven strategy and setting new ambitions |
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Targeting to offer an A+ level of security for clients by 2010 |
Value creating combination for all shareholders
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Post-tax ROE objective of 900bps above risk free rate across
the cycle Estimated EUR65 mn annual pre-tax cost synergies |
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Improved ability to manage capital through the cycle |
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EPS and ROE enhancing transaction from 2009 onwards |
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Combination supported by Converiums main shareholders |
Key milestones
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Offer prospectus to be published within 6 weeks |
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Expiration of the offer period expected in June 2007 |
This press release is not a pre-announcement within the meaning of Swiss takeover regulations and
only the terms and conditions set forth in SCORs formal pre-announcement (the Pre-announcement)
have any legal effect and relevance. This communication is incomplete and fully qualified by the
terms, conditions and information set forth in the Pre-announcement. The Pre-announcement has been
published in Bloomberg and will be published in Le Temps and the Neue Zürcher Zeitung. In addition,
it will be available at www.scor.com. The Pre-announcement will not be issued and the offer
will not extend into the United States or any other country, in which the making of such
Pre-announcement or Offer, or its acceptance, would be illegal or subject to regulatory filings,
registration or other approvals.
Paris, 26 February 2007 SCOR published today the formal Pre-announcement of a voluntary public
tender offer for the publicly held shares in Converium Holding AG that SCOR has not already
acquired. Under the proposed offer, for each Converium share, Converium shareholders will receive
0.5 new SCOR share and CHF4 in cash.
The offer will be subject to the customary conditions set forth in the Pre-announcement, including
a 50.01% acceptance level on a fully diluted basis, obtaining regulatory and antitrust approvals as
well as the approval of SCOR shareholders for the issuance of the new SCOR shares.
This announcement follows the announcement made by SCOR on 19 February 2007 that it had acquired
32.9% of Converiums share capital: 8.3% through direct market purchases and 24.6% through share
purchase agreements, the consummation of which is subject to regulatory and antitrust approvals.
SCORs initial intention had been to obtain a recommendation from the Converium Board of Directors
prior to making this announcement. After a first meeting with the Chairman and the Vice-Chairman of
Converium on Saturday, 17 February 2007, SCORs approach was rejected by Converiums Board on
Sunday, 18 February 2007. During the week following the Converium Boards rejection of SCORs
approach, several attempts by SCOR to hold meaningful discussions with the Board of Directors and
top management of Converium were rejected. Hence, at this stage SCOR has decided to pre-announce a
voluntary tender offer to Converiums shareholders. The terms being offered to all Converiums
shareholders are equivalent to those agreed between Converiums largest shareholders and SCOR.
The combination of Converium and SCOR is in the best interest of both companies, their shareholders
and stakeholders. Therefore, SCOR is hopeful that the Board of
Converium will support the offer in due course given the written proposals made by SCOR to the Board and the management of
Converium on Friday, 23 February 2007.
The aggregate consideration to be offered by SCOR will be equivalent to CHF21.1 per Converium share
based on SCORs closing price as at 16 February 2007. This represents a 27% premium over
Converiums last unaffected closing price (as at 4 January 2007) and a 20% premium over Converiums
3-month average prior to 16 February 2007. The transaction values the entire issued share capital
of Converium at CHF3.1bn (EUR1.9 bn).
Rationale
The combination of Converium and SCOR is fully aligned with SCORs proven strategy. It will
accelerate the development of both companies by setting new ambitions for the combined group. The
combined group will become one of the top choices for clients in key markets. It will capitalise on
a comprehensive network structured around hubs with three key European locations in Zurich, Paris
and Cologne, plus 2 major hubs in Asia and the Americas. It will also benefit from an enlarged pool
of talents and competencies and an increased diversified offering by market and business line. The
combined group will aim at achieving a post-tax ROE of 900bps above the risk-free rate across the
cycle. Improved market presence and proactive cycle management is expected to deliver sustainable
growth. The combined group will target to offer clients an A+ level of security by 2010.
The combination of Converium and SCOR will create a Top 5 global multi-line reinsurance company in
terms of pro forma gross written premiums, based on very solid foundations:
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Premium income in the range of EUR5.5 bn; |
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Market capitalisation in the range of EUR3.9 bn; |
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Long term capital base in the range of EUR4.7 bn; |
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Leading positions in Europe in most lines of business and leading global market positions in selected areas such as
life reinsurance, specialty lines, large facultative accounts and treaties; |
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Well diversified sources of revenues between life and non-life lines, providing reduced earnings volatility and
improved risk profile; |
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Strong position to efficiently manage cycle thanks to a wider spectrum of business lines and services; |
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Value enhancing combination of recognised pools of talents from both organisations focused on innovation and
tailor-made solutions for clients and better able to adapt to todays risk environment; |
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EUR65 mn of estimated annual pre-tax cost synergies from 2009 onwards; |
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Maximum diversification benefit according to Solvency Il requirements; |
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State-of-the-art Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). |
The transaction is expected to be ROE and EPS accretive from 2009 onwards.
SCOR strongly believes that this combination is beneficial for all stakeholders. Clients and
brokers will gain access to a new top-choice risk carrier, an enlarged and innovative product mix,
a reinforced security level and an expanded network. Employees will benefit from enhanced
opportunities. The combination is also expected to create substantial value for both companies
shareholders as the benefits of the combination are realised.
Denis Kessler, SCOR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said :
The consolidation in the insurance and reinsurance industries shows that size, diversification and
expertise are critical success factors. They generate competitive advantages and lead to superior
value creation. The combination of Converium and SCOR is a unique strategic opportunity and creates
value for both sets of shareholders due to the enhanced earnings profile of the combined group, its
lower volatility and synergies to be achieved. This is a very attractive offer. It is also a very
fair offer, with all shareholders being offered equivalent terms and conditions.
The timetable of the offer currently contemplates the publishing of the offer prospectus within 6
weeks and the expiration of the offer period in June 2007.
SCOR is advised by BNP Paribas and UBS as financial advisers and by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
and Flom LLP and Homburger as legal advisers.
This communication is not a pre-announcement within the meaning of Swiss takeover regulations
and only the terms and conditions set forth in SCORs formal pre-announcement (the
Pre-announcement) have any legal effect and relevance. This communication is fully qualified by
the terms, conditions and information set forth in the Pre-Announcement. The Pre-announcement has
been published in Bloomberg and will be published in Le Temps and Neue Zürcher Zeitung. In
addition, it will be available on www.scor.com.
Furthermore, this communication does not constitute an offer to sell or to purchase securities, nor
a solicitation of an offer to sell or to purchase securities, whether in the context of the public
offer in Switzerland (the Tender Offer) on the shares of Converium Holding AG (Converium) or
otherwise in France or in any jurisdiction where such offer, solicitation or sale may be unlawful.
The distribution of this communication may, in some countries, be restricted by law or regulation.
Accordingly, persons who come into
possession of this communication should inform themselves of and observe these restrictions. To
the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, SCOR S.A. (SCOR) disclaims any responsibility or
liability for the violation of such restrictions by any persons.
The Tender Offer will be made exclusively by way of an offer prospectus (the Offer Prospectus)
which will be filed with the Swiss Take Over Board and will be published on Bloomberg in
Switzerland. The Offer Prospectus will not be approved by nor registered with any securities
regulator in any other jurisdiction. The Offer Prospectus will contain the terms and conditions of
the Tender Offer, including the way the Tender Offer can be accepted and the restrictions
applicable to the Tender Offer in some countries. The Tender Offer will be subject to all the
terms and conditions set forth in the Offer Prospectus.
Admission to trading of the new SCOR shares on the Eurolist market by Euronext Paris S.A. will be
requested by SCOR. A prospectus regarding the new SCOR shares to be issued in consideration to
Converium shareholders contributions of their shares to the Tender Offer (the `Admission
Prospectus) and a prospectus regarding the new SCOR shares to be issued in consideration to the
contributions by Patinex AG and by Alecta pensionsfrsékring, 6msesidigt of their Converium shares
(the `Document E) will be registered with the French Autorité des Marchés Financiers (the AMF).
The publication and the availability of the Admission Prospectus and the Document E will be
announced by a press release published on SCORs website (www.scor.com) and on the AMFs website
(www.amf-france.org), as well as on Company News (www.companynewsgroup.com). The Admission
Prospectus will be published and made available at the latest the first day of the offer period.
The Document E will be published and made available at the latest 15 days prior to the SCORs
shareholders meeting called to approve the contributions. The Admission Prospectus and the
Document E will be available without charges at SCORs corporate headquarters, 1, avenue du
Général de Gaulle, 92 800 Puteaux, France. The Admission Prospectus and the Document E will also
be available on SCORs website and on the AMFs website. Copies of the Admission Prospectus and of
the Document E will be addressed without charge upon request.
U.S. Restrictions
The Tender Offer will not be made in or into the United States of America and may only be accepted
outside the United States. Accordingly, the information contained herein is not for publication or
distribution in, into or from the United States, and persons receiving such information (including
custodians, nominees and trustees) must not distribute or send it into or from the United States.
The Tender Offer will not be extended to American Depository Shares representing rights to receive
Converium Shares. This communication is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States.
Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption
from registration. SCOR will not register or offer its securities, or otherwise conduct the Tender
Offer, in the United States or to U.S. persons.
U.K. Restrictions
Promotion of the shares of SCOR (the SCOR Shares) in the United Kingdom is restricted by the
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (the FSMA), and accordingly the SCOR Shares are not
being promoted to the general public in the United Kingdom. This communication is to be directed
only at persons in the U.K. who (a) have professional experience in matters relating to
investments, (b) are falling within Article 49 (2)(a) to (d) (high net worth companies,
unincorporated associations, etc) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial
Promotion) Order 2005, or (c) to whom they may otherwise lawfully be communicated (all such
persons together being referred to as relevant persons). In the U.K., this communication is not
to be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. In the U.K., any investment
or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to relevant persons
and will be engaged in only with relevant persons.
Forward looking statements
Certain statements contained herein are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to
statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans or objectives, based
on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to a historical
fact or current fact. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such
as, without limitation, anticipate, assume, believe, continue, estimate, expect,
foresee, intend, may increase and may fluctuate and similar expressions or by future or
conditional verbs such as, without limitations, will, should, would and could. Undue
reliance should not be placed on such statements, because, by their nature, they are subject to
known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause SCORs actual results,
performance, achievements or prospects to differ from any future results, performance,
achievements or prospects expressed or implied by such statements, including the risk that the
combination of SCOR and Converium may not be consummated. Such factors include, among others: the
costs related to the transaction; the inability to obtain, or meet conditions imposed by, the
required governmental and regulatory approvals and consents; the risk that the businesses of SCOR
and Converium will not be integrated successfully; other risks and uncertainties affecting SCOR
and Converium including, without limitation, the risk of future catastrophic events, economic and
market developments, regulatory actions and developments, litigations and other proceedings.
This list is not exhaustive. Please refer to SCORs document de référence filed with the AMF on 27
March 2006 under number D.06159, as amended, for a description of certain additional important
factors, risks and uncertainties that may affect the business of the SCOR group.
SCOR and Converium operate in a continually changing environment and new risks emerge continually.
SCOR does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any of these
forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or
otherwise.
Exhibit 99.2
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, JAPAN AND AUSTRALIA
26 February, 2007
Converium and SCOR : creating together a Top 5 reinsurer
SCOR announces a tender offer for Converiums outstanding shares
|
|
Voluntary public tender offer for 67.1%
of Converiums publicly owned shares
not already owned or acquired by SCOR |
|
|
For every Converium share, 0.5 new SCOR share plus CHF4 in cash, equivalent to CHF21.1 per
Converium share based on closing share prices as at 16 February 2007 |
|
|
Attractive 27% premium on Converiums last unaffected share price as of 4 January 2007 |
|
|
Offer subject to 50.01% acceptance level on a fully diluted basis, SCOR shareholder approval
and other customary conditions |
Strategic rationale
|
|
Compelling combination in a consolidating sector |
|
|
Creating a Top 5 global multi-line reinsurer with leading positions in life reinsurance,
specialty lines, large facultative accounts and treaties |
|
|
Leveraging complementary markets and business lines |
|
|
Benefiting clients and brokers |
|
|
Diversifying risks and improving earnings visibility |
|
|
Providing attractive opportunities for management and employees |
|
|
Accelerating SCORs proven strategy and setting new ambitions |
|
|
Targeting to offer an A+ level of security for clients by 2010 |
Value creating combination for all shareholders
|
|
Post-tax ROE objective of 900bps above risk free rate across
the cycle
Estimated EUR65 mn annual pre-tax cost synergies |
|
|
Improved ability to manage capital through the cycle |
|
|
EPS and ROE enhancing transaction from 2009 onwards |
|
|
Combination supported by Converiums main shareholders |
Key milestones
|
|
Offer prospectus to be published within 6 weeks |
|
|
Expiration of the offer period expected in June 2007 |
This press release is not a pre-announcement within the meaning of Swiss takeover regulations and
only the terms and conditions set forth in SCORs formal pre-announcement (the Pre-announcement)
have any legal effect and relevance. This communication is incomplete and fully qualified by the
terms, conditions and information set forth in the Pre-announcement. The Pre-announcement has been
published in Bloomberg and will be published in Le Temps and the Neue Zürcher Zeitung. In addition,
it will be available at www.scor.com. The Pre-announcement will not be issued and the offer
will not extend into the United States or any other country, in which the making of such
Pre-announcement or Offer, or its acceptance, would be illegal or subject to regulatory filings,
registration or other approvals.
Paris, 26 February 2007 SCOR published today the formal Pre-announcement of a voluntary public
tender offer for the publicly held shares in Converium Holding AG that SCOR has not already
acquired. Under the proposed offer, for each Converium share, Converium shareholders will
receive 0.5 new SCOR share and CHF4 in cash.
The offer will be subject to the customary conditions set forth in the Pre-announcement, including
a 50.01% acceptance level on a fully diluted basis, obtaining regulatory and antitrust approvals as
well as the approval of SCOR shareholders for the issuance of the new SCOR shares.
This announcement follows the announcement made by SCOR on 19 February 2007 that it had acquired
32.9% of Converiums share capital: 8.3% through direct market purchases and 24.6% through share
purchase agreements, the consummation of which is subject to regulatory and antitrust approvals.
SCORs initial intention had been to obtain a recommendation from the Converium Board of Directors
prior to making this announcement. After a first meeting with the Chairman and the Vice-Chairman of
Converium on Saturday, 17 February 2007, SCORs approach was rejected by Converiums Board on
Sunday, 18 February 2007. During the week following the Converium Boards rejection of SCORs
approach, several attempts by SCOR to hold meaningful discussions with the Board of Directors and
top management of Converium were rejected. Hence, at this stage SCOR has decided to pre-announce a
voluntary tender offer to Converiums shareholders. The terms being offered to all Converiums
shareholders are equivalent to those agreed between Converiums largest shareholders and SCOR.
The combination of Converium and SCOR is in the best interest of both companies, their shareholders
and stakeholders. Therefore, SCOR is hopeful that the Board of Converium will support the offer in
due course given the written proposals made by SCOR to the Board and the management of Converium on
Friday, 23 February 2007.
The aggregate consideration to be offered by SCOR will be equivalent to CHF21.1 per Converium share
based on SCORs closing price as at 16 February 2007. This represents a 27% premium over
Converiums last unaffected closing price (as at 4 January 2007) and a 20% premium over Converiums
3-month average prior to 16 February 2007. The transaction values the entire issued share capital
of Converium at CHF3.1 bn (EUR1.9 bn).
Rationale
The combination of Converium and SCOR is fully aligned with SCORs proven strategy. It will
accelerate the development of both companies by setting new ambitions for the combined group. The
combined group will become one of the top choices for clients in key markets. It will capitalise on
a comprehensive network structured around hubs with three key European locations in Zurich, Paris
and Cologne, plus 2 major hubs in Asia and the Americas. It will also benefit from an enlarged pool
of talents and competencies and an increased diversified offering by market and business line. The
combined group will aim at achieving a post-tax ROE of 900bps above the risk-free rate across the
cycle. Improved market presence and proactive cycle management is expected to deliver sustainable
growth. The combined group will target to offer clients an A+ level of security by 2010.
The combination of Converium and SCOR will create a Top 5 global multi-line reinsurance company in
terms of pro forma gross written premiums, based on very solid foundations:
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Premium income in the range of EUR5.5 bn; |
|
|
|
|
Market capitalisation in the range of EUR3.9 bn; |
|
|
|
|
Long term capital base in the range of EUR4.7 bn; |
|
|
|
|
Leading positions in Europe in most lines of business and leading global market positions in selected areas such as
life reinsurance, specialty lines, large facultative accounts and treaties; |
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|
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|
Well diversified sources of revenues between life and non-life lines, providing reduced earnings volatility and
improved risk profile; |
|
|
|
|
Strong position to efficiently manage cycle thanks to a wider spectrum of business lines and services; |
|
|
|
|
Value enhancing combination of recognised pools of talents from both organisations focused on innovation and
tailor-made solutions for clients and better able to adapt to todays risk environment; |
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EUR65 mn of estimated annual pre-tax cost synergies from 2009 onwards; |
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Maximum diversification benefit according to Solvency II requirements; |
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State-of-the-art Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). |
The transaction is expected to be ROE and EPS accretive from 2009 onwards.
SCOR strongly believes that this combination is beneficial for all stakeholders. Clients and
brokers will gain access to a new top-choice risk carrier, an enlarged and innovative product mix,
a reinforced security level and an expanded network. Employees will benefit from enhanced
opportunities. The combination is also expected to create substantial value for both companies
shareholders as the benefits of the combination are realised.
Denis Kessler, SCOR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said :
The consolidation in the insurance and reinsurance industries shows that size, diversification and
expertise are critical success factors. They generate competitive advantages and lead to superior
value creation. The combination of Converium and SCOR is a unique strategic opportunity and creates
value for both sets of shareholders due to the enhanced earnings profile of the combined group, its
lower volatility and synergies to be achieved. This is a very attractive offer. It is also
a very fair offer, with all shareholders being offered equivalent terms and conditions.
The timetable of the offer currently contemplates the publishing of the offer prospectus within 6
weeks and the expiration of the offer period in June 2007.
SCOR is advised by BNP Paribas and UBS as financial advisers and by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher
and Flom LLP and Homburger as legal advisers.
Appendix
The following provides additional background information on the strategic rationale for the
combination.
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Compelling combination in a consolidating sector: creating a Top 5 global multi-line
reinsurer with leading positions in life reinsurance, specialty lines, large facultative
accounts and treaties |
The combination of Converium and SCOR will create a Top 5 global multi-line reinsurer in terms of
gross written premiums with 2006 estimated combined gross written premiums of EUR5.5 bn. It will
also create a new powerful leader in European reinsurance covering all major markets
in Europe.
The combination will consolidate both companies leading recognised expertise in
specialty lines of business and in corporate facultatives and treaties. Leading expertise
in Engineering, Energy, Credit & Surety, Agriculture and Space will be strengthened. SCOR will gain
exposure to Converiums recognised expertise in Aviation and Marine and to its
participation in GAUM, MDU and at the Lloyds market. The addition of Converiums life
reinsurance activity to SCOR Global Life reinforces its European and diversified leadership.
As a top league player, the combined group will be better positioned to provide a wider range of
value-added solutions to clients either directly or through an improved value proposition to the
broker community.
The combined group will take advantage of its scale, increased clout and strategic flexibility to
pursue both internal and external growth opportunities globally, in particular in Asia and in the
emerging markets where both Converium and SCOR already have a sizeable presence.
The combined group is further expected to benefit from a lower cost of capital in the long term,
enlarged financial flexibility with improved access to the equity and debt capital markets and all
other sources of funding.
2. Leveraging complementary markets and business lines
The overlap between Converium and SCOR is limited, which significantly reduces potential loss of
business risk. Overall, the loss of business following the combination is estimated to represent
less than 10% of the combined premiums. Complementary markets and business lines will allow
accelerated development opportunities and will increase ability to manage the cycle.
The combination of Converium and SCOR will form a highly diversified reinsurer in Europe, a region
accounting for 62% of the total 2005 pro forma premiums. Converiums key market positions in
Switzerland, Germany, Austria and the U.K., notably complement SCORs strengths in France, Spain,
Portugal, Italy, etc.
The combined operations will be strongly diversified with no single market accounting for more than
20% of the total premium income. The Middle East, South America, Asia and the rest of the world,
which account for 15% of the total 2005 pro forma premiums, provide the combined group with
significant growth potential going forward.
3. Benefiting clients and brokers
SCORs and Converiums respective business approaches and philosophies towards client servicing are
similar. They both favour long term relationships with ceding companies rather than a purely
opportunistic view essentially based on price.
The combined group will benefit from an enlarged non-life book of business, well balanced between
treaties, specialty lines and large facultative accounts.
Clients and brokers will benefit from such combination that will aim at pursuing this philosophy by
providing them a wider range of services and covers on a larger geographical scale.
Increased financial scale should also enable the combined group to achieve additional growth by
focusing on innovation and tailor-made solutions for clients in all business lines.
4. Diversifying risks and improving earnings visibility
The combination of Converium and SCOR will benefit from a highly diversified revenue base, with
balanced revenue streams in non-life lines and an equal contribution of life and non-life business
lines.
This significantly increased diversified profile of the combined group, further supported by
maintained short-tail focus and by its limited US exposure, will stabilise the capital base through
a reduction in volatility and increases the ability of the combined group to resist large
unexpected industry shocks. Rating agencies increasingly value such factors thereby improving the
combined group rating profile.
Diversification benefits will also enable more flexibility in capital management and allocation in
order to react even more rapidly to market changes and be able to seize the best opportunities.
Maximum benefits from the future Solvency Il regulations will be extracted.
Going forward, the combination of Converium and SCOR will result in more stable and sustainable
earnings expectations. Putting together counter-cyclical low-volatility life earnings with
diversified, stronger and client-focused non life ones greatly enhances earnings visibility for the
future.
5. Providing attractive opportunities for management and employees
SCOR intends to combine Converiums expertise and talent with its own to create a common
group culture which would be a critical factor for a successful integration. Both staff
and management should benefit from the improved prospects offered by this combination.
The management responsibilities within the combined group will be allocated on the basis of the
best available talent within the two organisations and the key principles already prevailing at
SCOR, i.e. international management, equal opportunity, merit-based approach and professional
expertise. The integration of Revios within SCOR is a good case in point as regards our
open-minded approach to people and organisations.
SCOR aims to create a network company structured around hubs with 3 key locations in Europe
(Zurich, Paris and Cologne), plus 2 others in Asia and the Americas organised by country,
activity and line of business. SCOR would favour a combined international team with a balanced mix,
promoting mobility and career development.
SCOR highly respects Converiums current management team, which enjoys a strong and proven track
record in the industry, and its employees.
SCOR has made a proposal to the Chairman of Converium with respect to the designated positions of
members of Converiums top management in the combined group.
The Zurich-based entity will be a full operating company with key worldwide responsibilities within
the combined group.
6. Accelerating SCORs proven strategy and setting new ambitions
SCOR intends to keep the same strategic pillars that supported its successful recovery. The
combined group will pursue and accelerate the realization and implementation of SCORs proven
strategy. Strict underwriting criteria, long-term client relationships, value-added services and
innovation, technical expertise and pursuit of an adequate security level and profitability
will remain core strategic values.
The combined group will be a stronger competitor strategically positioned as a global multi-line
company focused on twin-engines (life and non-life activities) and benefiting from well diversified
sources of revenues by geography and by business line. It will be able to efficiently leverage the
network company approach it intends to implement and capitalise on the combination of talents with
similar experiences.
The combined groups focus will be strongly capital driven with the aim to increase capital
mobility within the group for proactive cycle management. The combined group will target an ROE of
900bps above the risk free rate across the cycle. It will also target to offer to its clients an A+
security level by 2010.
7. Significant synergies leading to improved group efficiency
Synergies are expected to be extracted from various sources including reduction in corporate
functions, reduction in life and non-life operating administrative expenses and cost reductions in
IT and other costs.
Preliminary estimates for annual cost synergies are expected to reach approximately EUR65 mn on a
pre-tax basis as from 2009 onwards. Integration and restructuring costs are expected at
approximately EUR80 mn in 2007 and 2008.
Additional benefits include the optimisation of retrocession costs, tax optimisation, improved
access to funding conditions, improved pricing power, the sharing of best underwriting practices
and increased investment returns.
8. Limited execution issues
SCORs track record in terms of integration shows its willingness to take advantage of the
respective strengths of the companies involved based on the principles of mutual respect and
professional merits. Our similar business models should ensure limited business disruption together
with limited transaction execution risks.
Key factors supporting this include the strong fit with complementary lines of business and markets
and shared business approach and the similar organisational structure with specialised operating
business lines reporting to a holding company with central function.
SCOR strongly believes that the timing is appropriate for such a combination with both groups
successfully restructured, the Revios integration well on track, approaching completion and with
the 2007 renewals just completed.
9. Corporate governance
Since the 2002 Back on Track plan, SCOR has been committed to applying the best corporate
governance practises. SCORs current Board of Directors is half independent and half international.
To ensure consistency and continuity within the combined group, in the context of a recommended
transaction, we proposed that the Board of Directors of the combined group would combine the
current Boards of Converium and SCOR, with Board members participating in the various committees of
such Board of Directors (audit, strategy, risk, nomination and remuneration). Members of the
current Converium Board could also concurrently remain Board members of the combined groups Swiss
operating company, as per SCORs existing Board of Directors guidelines.
10. Financial impact The combination is expected to be EPS
accretive and ROE enhancing by 2009.
The financial structuring of the transaction is strong with equity financing accounting for 74% of
total consideration. The cash portion of the transaction (EUR500 mn) is fully secured and expected
to be ultimately refinanced through senior and/or subordinated debt.
The combination should have positive effects on capital position with an enhanced financial
strength for the combined group and an enlarged capital base.
11. Offer premium analysis
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Converium share |
|
|
|
|
price (CHF) |
|
Implied premium |
|
Close 4 January 07* |
|
|
16.65 |
|
|
|
26.8 |
% |
Close 16 February 07** |
|
|
18.80 |
|
|
|
12.3 |
% |
1 month prior*** |
|
|
18.25 |
|
|
|
15.7 |
% |
3 months prior*** |
|
|
17.57 |
|
|
|
20.2 |
% |
6 months prior*** |
|
|
16.57 |
|
|
|
27.4 |
% |
1 year prior*** |
|
|
15.70 |
|
|
|
34.5 |
% |
Minimum price**** |
|
|
18.86 |
|
|
|
12.7 |
% |
|
|
|
|
* |
|
Last unaffected share price |
|
** |
|
Last price prior to the block transactions |
|
*** |
|
Up to 16 February 2007 |
|
**** |
|
Based on average opening price for 30 days prior to Pre-announcement |
Source: Data stream
This communication is not a pre-announcement within the meaning of Swiss takeover regulations
and only the terms and conditions set forth in SCORs formal pre-announcement (the
Pre-announcement) have any legal effect and relevance. This communication is fully qualified by
the terms, conditions and information set forth in the Pre-Announcement. The Pre-announcement has
been published in Bloomberg and will be published in Le Temps and Neue Zürcher Zeitung. In
addition, it will be available on www.scor.com.
Furthermore, this communication does not constitute an offer to sell or to purchase securities, nor
a solicitation of an offer to sell or to purchase securities, whether in the context of the public
offer in Switzerland (the Tender Offer) on the shares of Converium Holding AG (Converium) or
otherwise in France or in any jurisdiction where such offer, solicitation or sale may be unlawful.
The distribution of this communication may, in some countries, be restricted by law or regulation.
Accordingly, persons who come into possession of this communication should inform themselves of and
observe these restrictions. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, SCOR S.A. (SCOR)
disclaims any responsibility or liability for the violation of such restrictions by any persons.
The Tender Offer will be made exclusively by way of an offer prospectus (the Offer Prospectus)
which will be filed with the Swiss Take Over Board and will be published on Bloomberg in
Switzerland. The Offer Prospectus will not be approved by nor registered with any securities
regulator in any other jurisdiction. The Offer Prospectus will contain the terms and conditions of
the Tender Offer, including the way the Tender Offer can be accepted and the restrictions
applicable to the Tender Offer in some countries. The Tender Offer will be subject to all the terms
and conditions set forth in the Offer Prospectus.
Admission to trading of the new SCOR shares on the Eurolist market by Euronext Paris S.A. will be
requested by SCOR. A prospectus regarding the new SCOR shares to be issued in consideration to
Converium shareholders contributions of their shares to the Tender Offer (the `Admission
Prospectus) and a prospectus regarding the new SCOR shares to be issued in consideration to the
contributions by Patinex AG and by Alecta pensionsfdrsékring, dmsesidigt of their Converium shares
(the `Document E) will be registered with the French Autorité des Marchés Financiers (the AMP).
The publication and the availability of the Admission Prospectus and the Document E will be
announced by a press release published on SCORs website (www.scor.com) and on the AMFs website
(www.amf-france.org), as well as on Company News (www.companynewsgroup.com). The Admission
Prospectus will be published and made available at the latest the first day of the offer period.
The Document E will be published and made available at the latest 15 days prior to the SCORs
shareholders meeting called to approve the contributions. The Admission Prospectus and the Document
E will be available without charges at SCORs corporate headquarters, 1, avenue du Général de
Gaulle, 92 800 Puteaux, France. The Admission Prospectus and the Document E will also be available
on SCORs website and on the AMFs website. Copies of the Admission Prospectus and of the Document
E will be addressed without charge upon request.
U.S. Restrictions
The Tender Offer will not be made in or into the United States of America and may only be accepted
outside the United States. Accordingly, the information contained herein is not for publication or
distribution in, into or from the United States, and persons receiving such information (including
custodians, nominees and trustees) must not distribute or send it into or from the United States.
The Tender Offer will not be extended to American Depository Shares representing rights to receive
Converium Shares. This communication is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States.
Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from
registration. SCOR will not register or offer its securities, or otherwise conduct the Tender
Offer, in the United States or to U.S. persons.
U.K. Restrictions
Promotion of the shares of SCOR (the SCOR Shares) in the United Kingdom is restricted by the
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (the FSMA), and accordingly the SCOR Shares are not being
promoted to the general public in the United Kingdom. This communication is to be directed only at
persons in the U.K. who (a) have professional experience in matters relating to investments, (b)
are falling within Article 49 (2)(a) to (d) (high net worth entities, unincorporated associations,
etc) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, or (c) to
whom they may otherwise lawfully be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as
relevant persons). In the U.K., this communication is not to be acted on or relied on by persons
who
are not relevant persons. In the U.K., any investment or investment activity to which this
communication relates is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with
relevant persons.
Forward looking statements
Certain statements contained herein are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to
statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans or objectives, based on
certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to a historical fact or
current fact. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as,
without limitation, anticipate, assume, believe, continue, estimate, expect, foresee,
intend, may increase and may fluctuate and similar expressions or by future or conditional
verbs such as, without limitations, will, should, would and could. Undue reliance should
not be placed on such statements, because, by their nature, they are subject to known and unknown
risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause SCORs actual results, performance,
achievements or prospects to differ from any future results, performance, achievements or prospects
expressed or implied by such statements, including the risk that the combination of SCOR and
Converium may not be consummated. Such factors include, among others: the costs related to the
transaction; the inability to obtain, or meet conditions imposed by, the required governmental and
regulatory approvals and consents; the risk that the businesses of SCOR and Converium will not be
integrated successfully; other risks and uncertainties affecting SCOR and Converium including,
without limitation, the risk of future catastrophic events, economic and market developments,
regulatory actions and developments, litigations and other proceedings.
This fist is not exhaustive. Please refer to SCORs document de référence filed with the AMF on 27
March 2006 under number D.06159, as amended, for a description of certain additional important
factors, risks and uncertainties that may affect the business of the SCOR group.
SCOR and Converium operate in a continually changing environment and new risks emerge continually.
SCOR does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any of these
forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or
otherwise.
For Further Information, please contact :
|
|
|
Godefroy de Colombe
|
|
+33 (0)1 46 98 73 50 |
Director for Public Affairs |
|
|
|
|
|
Jim Root
|
|
+33 (0)1 46 98 72 32 |
Director for Investor Relations |
|
|
|
|
|
Brunswick : |
|
|
Andrew Dewar
|
|
+33(0)1 53 96 83 83 |
Christian Weyand
|
|
+49 69 24 00 55 10 |
Christian Pfister (consultant)
|
|
+41 79 338 98 79 |