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.
