14 March 2007 ASX-MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENT Peptech appoints global financial adviser to examine strategic options Australian biotechnology company, Peptech Limited - ASX: PTD; AIM: PTD - today announced the appointment of Citigroup Corporate and Investment Banking to advise the company on a broad range of strategic investment opportunities designed to unlock the inherent value in its business. Peptech advised shareholders at its Annual General Meeting earlier this year that it had received unsolicited approaches from private equity firms, and was in varying stages of discussions with a number of global and industry specialist firms. Peptech Chairman Mel Bridges said Citigroups global and local expertise would enable the company to explore all opportunities aimed at achieving a value for Peptech that more accurately reflected its achievements, assets and position in the global biotechnology industry. Building the relationship with Citigroup allows us access to their expertise in both local and international markets, he added. -Citigroup brings a wealth of experience in a range of relevant disciplines to Peptech, including leading advice in M&A activity, global and domestic industry knowledge and independent advice,- Mr Bridges said. -Through its detailed understanding of Peptech’s business, Citigroup will advise on a range of corporate and strategic approaches to capitalise on the value of the company’s well balanced and diversified asset base including the company’s strong cash position of A$186 million, and to maximise its current position to deliver enhanced shareholder value.- Peptech Chief Executive Officer Dr John Chiplin said the interest shown by the industry’s leading private equity companies and since the AGM other biotechnology companies, highlights the international recognition Peptech has received as a next generation biologics company. -However despite this strong international interest and regardless of the outcome of the current discussions, Peptech remains focused on delivering a sustainable, internationally competitive, therapeutic antibody company with a rich pipeline of attractive drug targets,- Dr Chiplin said. -While the company is exploring all options to deliver enhanced shareholder value, the company is firmly committed to building and enhancing its valuable product pipeline, which includes staying on track to move our new generation anti-inflammatory drug PN0621 into the clinic in the coming months, -Dr Chiplin said. ENDS Further information: Dr John Chiplin Chief Executive Officer Peptech Limited Tel: 61 2 9870 8788 Released by: Ms Jodie Leckenby Consultant Phillips Group Tel: 07 3230 5000 Mobile: 0403 783 932 About Peptech: Peptech Limited focuses on the research and development of peptides and proteins in the areas of human pharmaceuticals and animal health. The company is positioned to become a globally recognised leader in biopharmaceutical development. For further information: www.peptech.com
PTD Price at posting:
0.0¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
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