Core Viewpoint - The completion of the acquisition of Merck's Surface Solutions business marks a significant milestone for Global New Materials International, establishing its presence in the global surface performance materials sector and enhancing the globalization strategy of Chinese new materials companies [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition was finalized on July 31, 2025, with a transaction value of €665 million, encompassing subsidiaries and production bases in Germany, Japan, and the United States [1]. - The acquired business will be rebranded as SUSONITY and will continue to operate independently, serving a global customer base [1]. - This acquisition is the largest cross-border merger in China's pearlescent materials industry to date [1]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - The acquisition is seen as a strategic necessity amid the restructuring of the global pearlescent materials market, with a shift towards high purity, weather resistance, and green safety [2]. - The integration of Merck's Surface Solutions business allows Global New Materials International to gain access to a comprehensive patent portfolio, stable high-end customer resources, and a mature R&D and application collaboration platform [1][2]. Group 3: Financial and Operational Support - Financial data indicates that Global New Materials International's revenue is projected to grow by 55% year-on-year in 2024, with a gross margin maintained above 50% [2]. - The previous acquisition of Korean CQV has resulted in a doubling of profits, providing a reference for business synergy post-integration [2]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The company aims to merge global sales networks, optimize cost structures, and enhance brand matrices, facilitating a transition from "Asian manufacturing" to "global operations" [2]. - The acquisition reflects the rising status of Chinese new materials companies within the global supply chain, with expectations of stronger global competitiveness in surface materials through deepened technological collaboration and capacity integration [2][3].

Core Insights - The acquisition of Merck's Surface Solutions business by Global New Materials International for €665 million marks a significant consolidation in the global pearlescent materials market [1][2] - The integration aims to enhance Global New Materials' product matrix and strengthen its technological capabilities while expanding its global high-end customer base [1][2] Company Overview - Global New Materials International now holds 100% ownership of Merck's Surface Solutions, which has been rebranded as SUSONITY [1] - SUSONITY is the market leader in natural mica-based pearlescent pigments, while Global New Materials is the leader in synthetic mica-based pigments [2] Market Strategy - Post-acquisition, Global New Materials will integrate SUSONITY's international sales channels to expand its global market presence, particularly in automotive coatings and cosmetics [2] - The acquisition is expected to enhance brand premium and pricing power due to SUSONITY's leadership in global pearlescent pigments [2] Operational Integration - SUSONITY will continue to operate as an independent brand, maintaining its core team and existing business structures in Germany, the U.S., and Japan [2] - The production facilities in Germany, Japan, and Georgia, USA, will remain operational and serve as regional hubs, retaining all 1,200 employees [2] Industry Context - The pearlescent materials market is undergoing a restructuring phase, with increasing demand for high-purity, weather-resistant, and environmentally safe applications [3] - The domestic breakthroughs in core raw materials like synthetic mica enable Chinese companies to challenge traditional international giants in the high-end materials sector [3]