Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Brickworks Limited are advancing their proposed merger with key shareholder meetings and Supreme Court hearings scheduled in September 2025.
- Shareholder meetings for both companies set for 10 September 2025
- Supreme Court of NSW hearings to approve merger schemes on 12 September 2025
- Merger to create a newly capitalised ASX-listed entity
- Opposition to schemes requires formal notice before court hearings
- Merger combines diversified investment house with leading building products group
Merger Progress Update
Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited (Soul Patts) and Brickworks Limited have provided a significant update on their proposed merger, a deal that aims to unite two of Australia's longstanding and diversified companies into a newly capitalised ASX-listed entity. Following the initial announcement of their Combination Deed in June 2025, the companies have now scheduled critical shareholder meetings and court hearings that will determine the merger's fate.
Upcoming Shareholder Meetings
On 10 September 2025, both Soul Patts and Brickworks shareholders will convene at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney to vote on their respective schemes of arrangement. These meetings are pivotal, as approval by the required majorities is a precondition for the merger to proceed. The dual scheme approach reflects the complexity of merging two distinct entities, each with its own shareholder base and regulatory requirements.
Court Hearings to Follow
Assuming shareholder approval, the Supreme Court of New South Wales will hold hearings on 12 September 2025 to formally approve the schemes. These hearings are procedural but essential, ensuring that the merger complies with legal standards and protects shareholder interests. Shareholders who oppose the merger have the opportunity to file notices of appearance and affidavits ahead of these hearings, underscoring the transparent and regulated nature of the process.
Strategic Implications of the Merger
The merger promises to combine Soul Patts’ diversified investment portfolio, which spans listed equities, private markets, credit, and property, with Brickworks’ leading position in building products across Australia and North America. Brickworks’ stable dividend history and industrial property assets complement Soul Patts’ long-term investment approach, potentially creating a robust and resilient company with enhanced growth prospects and shareholder value.
What Investors Should Watch
As the merger process reaches these critical milestones, investors will be closely monitoring the shareholder vote outcomes and the Supreme Court’s decisions. The combined entity could reshape the landscape of Australian industrial and investment sectors, but the final approval steps remain a hurdle. Both companies have provided dedicated shareholder information lines and resources to assist investors in understanding the implications and procedural requirements.
Bottom Line?
The coming weeks will be decisive for the Soul Patts-Brickworks merger, with shareholder and court approvals poised to unlock a new chapter in Australian corporate history.
Questions in the middle?
- Will shareholder majorities approve both schemes as anticipated?
- Could any legal challenges at the Supreme Court hearings delay or alter the merger?
- How will the combined company’s strategy evolve post-merger to leverage diversified assets?