The Vanguard Group: Disclosure on Smith (DS) plc

The Vanguard Group, Inc. has made a public opening position disclosure related to Smith (DS) plc. The disclosure was filed under Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code. As of June 5, 2024, Vanguard holds interests amounting to 4.49% in Smith (DS) plc, equating to 61,964,808 shares of 10p ordinary securities.

The disclosure includes minimal transactions. Vanguard reported purchasing 15,642 shares and selling 13,136 shares, both at 3.79 GBP per unit. No positions in cash-settled or stock-settled derivatives, nor rights to subscribe for new securities, were disclosed.

Vanguard confirmed no indemnity agreements, options arrangements, or other understandings related to the securities. No supplemental forms were attached to this disclosure.

The document also mentions International Paper Company as another party to the offer. No further disclosures in regard to this were provided.