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Beretta lifts stake in Ruger after proxy feud

Wall Street Journal Markets •
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Beretta and Sturm, Ruger have signed a strategic cooperation agreement that ends a months‑long proxy fight over board seats and strategic direction. The pact allows the Italian firearms group to lift its stake in the American maker to as much as 25 percent of outstanding shares. Investors see the settlement as a step toward stabilising governance at two heritage brands.

Under the deal, Beretta may launch a tender offer priced at a floor of $44.80 per share, giving it a clear path to acquire additional equity without triggering another proxy contest. The price reflects a modest premium to Ruger’s recent trading range, suggesting both parties aim for a financially disciplined partnership rather than a hostile takeover.

The agreement removes uncertainty that had depressed Ruger’s share price and allowed Beretta to signal long‑term confidence in the U.S. market. Analysts note that a combined ownership structure could unlock cross‑selling opportunities and cost synergies, potentially boosting earnings per share for both firms. Market participants will now gauge whether the cooperation translates into tangible revenue growth.

The deal also draws attention from regulators, who will monitor compliance with U.S. foreign‑investment rules as the partnership deepens.