The Committee of Independent Directors (IDC) of Johnson Controls Hitachi AC has recommended that shareholders accept the open offer made by Robert Bosch GmbH and Bosch Global Software Technologies Private Limited. This development marks a significant corporate action for the company, also known as Bosch Home Comfort India Limited.

Open Offer Details

The open offer seeks to acquire up to 70,00,355 equity shares, representing 25.75% of the company's voting equity share capital. Here are the key details of the offer:

Independent Valuation and Market Comparison

The IDC's recommendation comes after careful consideration of various factors:

1. Independent advisors BDO Valuation Advisory LLP confirmed that the offer price complies with SEBI takeover regulations.
2. The company's closing market prices were:
   • Rs 174.79 on BSE
   • Rs 174.75 on NSE

Both these prices were below the offer price of Rs 176.25, potentially making the offer attractive to shareholders.

Committee's Stance

The IDC stated that the offer appears to be fair and reasonable. However, they emphasized that shareholders should independently evaluate the open offer and make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances and investment objectives.

Implications for Shareholders

This open offer presents an opportunity for public shareholders to potentially exit their investment at a premium to the current market price. However, it's crucial to note that accepting the offer would mean relinquishing ownership in a company that may have future growth prospects under the increased influence of Robert Bosch GmbH.

Shareholders are advised to consider factors such as:

• Their investment horizon
• The company's future prospects
• Their assessment of the fair value of the shares
• Any tax implications of accepting the offer

Conclusion

The endorsement by the Independent Directors adds credibility to the open offer. However, as emphasized by the committee, each shareholder should conduct their own evaluation of the offer in light of their personal financial situation and investment goals before making a decision to tender their shares.

As the offer unfolds, it will be interesting to observe how this corporate action impacts the ownership structure of Johnson Controls Hitachi AC and its future strategic direction in the Indian market.

Johnson Controls Hitachi AC , a prominent player in the air conditioning industry, has officially announced its rebranding to Bosch Home Comfort India Limited. This significant change, effective from November 4, 2025, marks a new chapter in the company's history and reflects its integration into the global Bosch group.

Key Details of the Rebranding

• New Name: Bosch Home Comfort India Limited
• Effective Date: November 4, 2025
• Regulatory Approval: The name change has been approved by the Registrar of Companies, Ministry of Corporate Affairs
• Legal Documentation: The company's Memorandum of Association has been altered to reflect the new name

Impact on Trading and Identification

Despite the name change, the company's trading symbols and identification codes will remain unchanged for the time being:

Continuity of Business Operations

The Certificate of Incorporation confirming the name change explicitly states that this rebranding does not affect the rights and liabilities of stakeholders. This assurance is crucial for maintaining business continuity and stakeholder confidence during the transition.

Transition Period

To ensure a smooth transition and maintain brand recognition, the company is required to display its old name alongside the new name at all places where the company name is mandated to be displayed. This dual-name display will be in effect for a period of two years.

Background of the Change

This rebranding is a result of the acquisition of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning's global operations by Robert Bosch GmbH. The change in name aligns the Indian entity with its new parent company's global brand identity.

Implications for Stakeholders

1. Shareholders: No immediate action is required from shareholders. Their holdings and rights remain unaffected by this name change.

2. Customers: The company is expected to continue its operations and services under the new brand name. Customers may see gradual changes in branding on products and communications.

3. Employees: The name change is not expected to immediately impact employment terms or company structure.

4. Business Partners: Existing contracts and agreements remain valid under the new company name.

Future Outlook

This rebranding is likely to be followed by strategic changes as Bosch integrates the company into its global operations. Stakeholders should stay tuned for potential announcements regarding product lines, technology integration, and market strategies in the coming months.

The transition from Johnson Controls-Hitachi to Bosch represents a significant shift in the Indian air conditioning market. As Bosch Home Comfort India Limited, the company is poised to leverage Bosch's global expertise in technology and innovation, potentially leading to new product developments and market approaches in the Indian HVAC sector.