Vanguard Group Discloses Position in Smith (DS) plc

The Vanguard Group, Inc. has filed Form 8.3 concerning its interests in Smith (DS) plc, in accordance with Rule 8.3 of the UK Takeover Code. As of October 14, 2024, Vanguard holds 67,559,155 shares, representing a 4.89% interest in Smith (DS) plc. This is part of a public opening position disclosure required for those with interests equating to 1% or more of relevant securities.

The filing includes two transactions where Vanguard purchased 13,739 shares in Smith (DS) plc at prices of 4.70 GBP and 4.71 GBP per unit. The disclosure also noted connections to International Paper Company, another party related to the Smith (DS) plc offer.

There are no stock-settled derivatives, options, or agreements in place related to these interests. The company confirmed no indemnities or additional arrangements impacting these securities. No Supplemental Form 8 was necessary for this disclosure.