Novartis to Control Over 80% of Lek as Takeover Bid Set to Expire Monday

Ljubljana, 17 November - The takeover offer made by Swiss pharmaceutical group Novartis for Slovenian drug-maker Lek is to expire at midday on Monday. The success of the takeover bid is all but officially confirmed, as the Swiss multinational is said to have acquired more than 80 percent of the Ljubljana-based company. Moreover, the Slovenian Competition Protection Office is expected to stamp the deal by giving its permission.