Billion-dollar fusion: These 2 ASX mining shares are combining

These two companies are set to become a leader in drilling services with a $1.3 billion merger.

| More on:
two men in hard hats and high visibility jackets look together at a laptop screen that one of the men in holding at a mine site.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Two ASX mining shares seek to join forces as Perenti Ltd (ASX: PRN) plans to acquire 100% of DDH1 Ltd (ASX: DDH).

Surprisingly, the market has reacted negatively to the Perenti share price following the scheme of arrangement announcement. Shares in the larger mining services contractor are down 8.2% to $1.17, while the smaller drilling company, DDH1, trades up 7.9% to 93 cents apiece.

The proposed deal would establish an ASX-listed mining services company with a combined market capitalisation of $1.3 billion.

What's the sales pitch for merging?

Entering into a binding scheme implementation agreement, DDH1 shareholders are expected to receive 12.38 cents in cash alongside 0.7111 Perenti shares per DDH1 share. The offer values the Australian drilling company at an equity value of $410 million.

Before the market opened, Perenti detailed the compelling proposition to merge with DDH1 in a presentation to investors. The main strategic points for undertaking the merger were highlighted as being:

  • Synergies: estimated $22 million in post-tax synergies
  • Earnings: double-digit earnings accretive
  • Scale: creating a global leader in mining services, unlocking the potential for S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) inclusion
  • Increases share of earnings from Australian operations
  • Fundamentals: improves the balance sheet, improves free cash flow, and increases return on equity

Commenting on the proposed merger of the two ASX mining shares, Perenti CEO Mark Norwell said:

The long-term outlook for a sustained production cycle needs increased drilling spend to ensure mining reserves are not diminished, and drilling is becoming more complex, resulting in larger programs and demand for specialist services.

DDH1 is a highly respected tier 1 global operator, with significant capabilities across a complete range of specialised surface and underground drilling services, that are complementary to our existing clients and service offering.

Notably, the combination will create a company possessing more than 290 drilling rigs — one of the largest fleets on the planet.

How do past earnings of these ASX mining shares compare?

Perenti generated $55.7 million in profits on $2.7 billion of revenue in the 12 months ending 31 December 2022 — equating to a net income margin of 2.1%. Meanwhile, DDH1 pulled in $44.5 million in earnings on $532.7 million of revenue — coming to a margin of 8.4%.

If the two were already a combined company, it would be trading on a trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 11.7. Perenti expects $3.45 billion in FY23 revenue for the combined group.

Finally, October 2023 is the targeted date for the deal to be implemented.

Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Mergers & Acquisitions

Projection of two hands being shaken on a deal.
Materials Shares

Sayona Mining shares sink 13% on Piedmont Lithium merger news and capital raise

This merger will create the largest lithium producer in North America.

Read more »

Miner looking at a tablet.
Materials Shares

Down 28% in 2024, why this ASX 200 lithium stock could now be 'deeply undervalued'

The ASX 200 lithium stock has drawn plenty of investor attention over the past month.

Read more »

Woman looking at her tablet at a warehouse.
Mergers & Acquisitions

ASX 200 stock slides on huge $13 billion buyout news

ASX 200 investors are mulling over the $13 billion merger implications on Wednesday.

Read more »

Rocket powering up and symbolising a rising share price.
Mergers & Acquisitions

Guess which ASX microcap stock just rocketed 67% on takeover news

Investors are sending the ASX microcap stock flying amid a takeover bid.

Read more »

A group of business people pump the air and cheer.
Mergers & Acquisitions

This ASX small-cap stock is exploding 75% on takeover news!

The takeover premium is large.

Read more »

Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.
Mergers & Acquisitions

Guess which ASX stock just rocketed 40% on takeover news

A colossal company finds value in the small end of our ASX town.

Read more »

Data Centre Technology
Mergers & Acquisitions

ASX 200 stock nabs $400 million data centre amid AI rush

Another way to invest in the enablers of artificial intelligence is being built.

Read more »

two men in business suits sit across from each other at a table with a chess board on it. Both hold their hands to their chins and look down in serious contemplation of their next move.
Resources Shares

'Not ruled out': Could BHP still buy Anglo-American?

This mega-deal might not be as dead as it looks.

Read more »