BASF and Carlyle Forge Strategic Partnership to Create Global Standalone Coatings Business
BASF and Carlyle have agreed to create a new standalone global coatings business. The deal, valued at €7.70 billion, includes BASF's automotive OEM coatings, automotive refinish coatings, and surface treatment businesses. BASF will retain a 40% equity stake and receive approximately €5.80 billion in pre-tax cash proceeds. The transaction affects BASF India's operations, with its coatings business now housed in a wholly-owned subsidiary. The deal is expected to close in Q2 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

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BASF and Carlyle have finalized a binding agreement to establish a new global standalone coatings business, marking a significant development in the chemical industry. This strategic partnership between the chemical giant and the investment firm aims to create an independent entity focused on coatings operations.
Deal Structure and Valuation
The agreement encompasses BASF's automotive OEM coatings, automotive refinish coatings, and surface treatment businesses. Key details of the transaction include:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Enterprise Value | €7.70 billion |
| Expected Closing | Q2 2026 |
| BASF's Stake | 40% equity |
| Cash Proceeds to BASF | Approx. €5.80 billion (pre-tax) |
Impact on BASF India Limited
The global deal has implications for BASF's Indian operations:
- BASF India Coatings Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BASF India Limited, now houses the automotive OEM coatings and automotive refinish coatings businesses.
- This transfer was effective from January 1, 2025.
- As of March 31, 2025, the Coatings business in India generated sales of Rs. 479.60 crore, representing 3.10% of consolidated sales.
Investor Participation
The deal involves participation from global investment firm Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) in partnership with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA).
Regulatory Approvals and Timeline
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.
Future Outlook
BASF India Limited has stated that it will evaluate and assess the effect of this global announcement on its operations and its wholly-owned subsidiary, BASF India Coatings Private Limited. The company has committed to updating the stock exchanges on further developments related to this strategic move.
This partnership between BASF and Carlyle represents a significant shift in the global coatings industry landscape, potentially reshaping market dynamics and competitive positioning in the sector.
Historical Stock Returns for BASF
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +0.04% | -1.44% | -3.23% | -3.32% | -39.72% | +221.77% |




























