The State, which since March wanted to buy the “strategic activities” of the French computer giant Atos, acquired a preferential stake in its supercomputer subsidiary to obtain a right of veto, according to the official Journal on Thursday.
“This is a very clear signal of our determination to protect Atos’ strategic assets,” declared former Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire in April, just after announcing his intention to acquire this preferred stake in the subsidiary Bull, manufacturer of Atos supercomputers. , in great difficulties after the loss of several contracts.
Preferred shares give their owner additional advantages compared to an ordinary share, such as the right to veto certain decisions, for example on the repurchase by a foreign company of the capital of the subsidiary.
Contracts with the French army.
This preferential action aims to “preserve the sovereign interests of the French State,” Atos said in a press release in early October. He granted it to the State in exchange for a loan of 50 million euros to Bull. Contacted by AFP, the group declined to comment.
The State had announced in March its intention to acquire the “strategic activities” of the former national IT flagship, fearing that they would “pass into the hands of foreign actors.”
In June, it made a €700 million bid for the business of supercomputers used for nuclear deterrence, contracts with the French military and cybersecurity products. A proposal that was not to the liking of Atos, which sent a new offer. The two sides indicated in early October that negotiations were continuing.
Atos has lost more than 90% of its stock market value since the beginning of the year and has revised downwards its projections for the period 2024-2027. In late October, the courts validated an accelerated backup plan.
Source: BFM TV
