US Tech Giant Bourns Launches $356M Takeover Bid for NZ’s Rakon
By Lions Roar News Business Desk
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (January 12, 2026) — Auckland-based high-tech manufacturer Rakon has been thrust back into the spotlight after receiving a formal $356 million takeover offer from the US-based electronics giant Bourns Inc. The offer comes at a massive 72% premium over Rakon’s recent share price, signaling a potential end to the independent era of the 59-year-old Kiwi tech firm.
💰 The Offer: A Massive Premium
Bourns Inc, a multi-billion dollar family-owned firm from the United States, has laid out a compelling cash offer for Rakon shareholders.
- Share Price: Bourns is offering $1.55 per share, a significant jump from Friday’s closing price of just $0.90.
- Valuation: The deal values Rakon at $356 million, far exceeding its current market cap of $206 million.
- Lock-up Advantage: Bourns has already secured “lock-up” agreements with three major shareholders—Siward Crystal Technologies, interests linked to former CEO Brent Robinson, and Wairahi Investments. These agreements cover 41% of Rakon’s shares, giving the US bidder a dominant starting position.
📡 A Global Leader in Demand
Rakon is a specialized manufacturer of high-precision microchips and timing technology used in critical global infrastructure, including:
- 5G Networks & Satellites
- Aerospace and Defence Systems
- Autonomous Vehicles & Emergency Beacons
Despite its market-leading technology, Rakon has recently struggled with financial losses and internal boardroom friction regarding the company’s future direction and performance.
🏛️ Boardroom Tensions and Past Failures
This is the third takeover approach for Rakon in three years. A previous $391 million bid collapsed in 2024 due to “complexities” found during due diligence.
Currently, Rakon’s independent directors have formed a committee to evaluate the Bourns proposal. They are advising shareholders to take no action until a formal offer and an independent adviser’s report are released in the coming weeks.
⏳ What Happens Next?
Under NZX takeover rules, the process now moves into a formal phase:
- Formal Offer: Bourns must issue a formal offer within 10 to 20 working days.
- The 90% Threshold: The bid is conditional on Bourns reaching 90% acceptance from shareholders.
- Regulatory Hurdles: The deal will require approvals from regulators in New Zealand, France, and the UK due to Rakon’s sensitive work in the defense and aerospace sectors.
