Audi-Ducati Discussions No Longer Exclusive

Audi‘s window for exclusive negotiation rights with Ducati has closed, but the German automaker is still expected to announce the acquisition of the Italian motorcycle brand this week.

Volkswagen-owned Audi had exclusive rights to discuss acquiring Ducati until April 15, and though other suitors may now begin negotiations, Audi remains the front-runner. Last week, Reuters reported a deal could be announced as soon as April 18, the day before the Volkswagen Group’s annual shareholder meeting.

Andrea Bonomi, head of Ducati’s primary owners Investindustrial, told reporters the Volkswagen Group “has demonstrated in the past that it has the money, the technology and the long-term vision.”

Bonomi also told reporters Investindustrial may hold on to part of its 84.7% stake in Ducati.

“We wouldn’t mind taking part in the next growth phase,” Bonomi said.

[Source: Reuters]

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By Dennis Chung