- Markstone Capital Partners, a leading private equity fund Chaired by Elliott Broidy, confirmed reports that Syngenta AG (NYSE:SYT) has agreed to acquire Markstone portfolio company Zeraim Gedera Ltd., a high quality Israeli vegetable seed company. Zeraim focuses primarily on high-value crops, including tomato, pepper and melon. Syngenta will acquire all outstanding shares in the company from Markstone for consideration of approximately $95 million. Mike Mack, Chief Operating Officer of Syngenta Seeds said: “This acquisition further expands Syngenta’s position in high-value growth segments. Zeraim Gedera’s portfolio and its strong presence in Mediterranean markets ideally complement our vegetable seeds business.”
- For customers looking for economical horsepower in a durable, compact package, John Deere introduces a new line of 5003 Series Tractors, ranging in horsepower from 45- to 74-engine hp. “These new tractors feature 2.9L John Deere PowerTech£ engines, designed with turbocharged performance to help operators get more done, day in and day out,” says Mike Alvin, product manager, John Deere Commercial Products. “The engines provide excellent torque, fuel efficiency, and offer durable horsepower for many applications.”
- Syngenta announced today it has begun processing redemption forms from growers who participated in the 2007 AgriEdge® Corn program and will continue receiving claims until November 15, 2007. Growers who planted corn hybrids with Agrisure™ traits are automatically eligible to participate in AgriEdge Corn programs that provide industry-leading assurances and Technology Reinvestments. Any grower who plants a qualifying NK®, Garst®, Golden Harvest® or other brand corn hybrid with Agrisure™ traits is eligible to participate in AgriEdge Corn, which protects the seed investment with a weed or insect management system.
