UPDATE: Waters Corporation (NYSE: WAT) has just finalized its merger with Becton, Dickinson and Company’s (NYSE: BDX) Biosciences & Diagnostic Solutions businesses, a move that positions Waters as a leader in the global life sciences and diagnostics sector. This significant combination was officially announced on February 9, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the industry.
Officials report that this merger not only integrates top-tier technologies but also enhances Waters’ financial outlook substantially. The newly formed entity is set to address critical needs in high-volume testing and regulated applications, aiming to deliver groundbreaking solutions that advance global health.
In conjunction with the merger, Claire M. Fraser, Ph.D., a renowned genome scientist, has been appointed to the Waters Board of Directors, expanding its membership to 11. Dr. Fraser has an impressive background, having founded the Institute for Genome Sciences at the University of Maryland, where she previously served as a professor. Her expertise is expected to play a crucial role in guiding Waters through its next growth phase.
Udit Batra, Ph.D., President and CEO of Waters, emphasized the transformative potential of this merger: “This combination marks a pivotal moment for Waters, bringing together world-class scientific expertise across multiple disciplines.” He highlighted a commitment to addressing unmet customer needs while enhancing shareholder value.
The merger has resulted in the establishment of four key divisions within Waters, each focusing on different aspects of life sciences and diagnostics:
– **Waters Analytical Sciences:** Specializing in separations science and molecular characterization, including liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.
– **Waters Biosciences:** Focusing on cellular analysis and single-cell multiomics solutions.
– **Waters Advanced Diagnostics:** Providing high-value diagnostic workflows in regulated settings, including microbiology and point-of-care testing.
– **Waters Materials Sciences:** Comprising diverse materials characterization techniques for various industries, including pharmaceuticals.
The transaction was executed through a Reverse Morris Trust, with Waters shareholders owning 60.8% of the combined company, while BD shareholders hold 39.2%. BD shareholders will receive approximately 0.135 shares of Waters common stock for each share of BD stock held as of February 5, 2026.
This merger not only signifies a strategic expansion for Waters but is also poised to enhance the development and manufacturing of therapeutics, food safety, and environmental testing. The new structure underscores Waters’ commitment to innovation and excellence in meeting global health challenges.
As Waters embarks on this new chapter, the focus remains on delivering high-quality medicines and improving patient outcomes through cutting-edge science. The merger is expected to drive significant advancements in diagnostics and therapeutic solutions.
For more information on this transformative deal, visit Waters Corporation’s official site at www.waters.com/combination.
The implications of this merger are vast, and industry experts will be closely monitoring how this new entity leverages its strengths to reshape the landscape of life sciences and diagnostics. Stay tuned for further updates as Waters navigates its next steps in this competitive sector.
