Blackstone has stated that its planned $1.47B takeover of NIBC Holding NV, a bank in the Netherlands, may not pass regulatory approval.
“There is substantial uncertainty concerning the business plan and it continuing to be a realistic basis for obtaining regulatory clearance...The relevant regulators have not yet given any indication of their views in this respect.”
Blackstone press release
Blackstone is citing COVID-19 as the reason behind possible regulatory failure. Following the announcement of the uncertain approval, NIBC Holding’s shares fell 18%.