German engineering conglomerate Robert Bosch is considering the acquisition of U.S. appliance manufacturer Whirlpool Corporation (WHR), according to sources cited by Reuters. Following these reports, Whirlpool's shares surged over 17% in pre-market trading on Wednesday, reaching $102.68.
Bosch has initiated discussions with potential advisors regarding a possible bid for Whirlpool, which boasts a market capitalization of approximately $4.8 billion, as per one of the sources quoted in the report.
On Tuesday, Whirlpool's shares had closed at $87.03, marking a 5.21% decline. Over the past year, the stock has fluctuated between $84.18 and $160.62.