Ashok Leyland Limited has officially denied media reports suggesting that the company is in advanced stages of negotiations to acquire the promoter’s stake in SML Isuzu. The reports, which claimed that talks between Ashok Leyland and Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation, the promoter of SML Isuzu, were nearing completion, have been termed as factually incorrect by the company.

Company’s Official Response

In a formal communication dated March 26, 2025, addressed to the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd. (NSE) and BSE Limited (BSE), Ashok Leyland categorically stated that the reports circulating in various media outlets are misleading and do not reflect any factual developments.

"The Company would like to outrightly deny this news as factually incorrect. Kindly take the above on record and disregard any misleading information that may have been circulated in the media," the official statement read.

Compliance with SEBI Regulations

Ashok Leyland has reiterated its commitment to regulatory compliance under Regulation 30(11) of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. The company assured that it continues to follow all applicable guidelines for prompt disclosure of any material information.

As per the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, listed entities are required to disclose any event or information that is considered material and may have an impact on investor decisions. Ashok Leyland emphasized that it has always complied with these regulations and will continue to promptly disclose any significant developments as and when they arise.

Media Reports on Stake Acquisition Denied

Recent media reports claimed that Ashok Leyland was in advanced negotiations to acquire the stake of SML Isuzu’s promoter, Sumitomo Corporation, and that the deal was close to being finalized. These reports gained traction across various mainstream media platforms, creating speculation in the market.

However, Ashok Leyland’s denial has put these speculations to rest. The company clarified that there are no ongoing negotiations or discussions between the company and Sumitomo Corporation regarding the acquisition of SML Isuzu’s promoter stake.

Commitment to Timely and Transparent Disclosures

Ashok Leyland has reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining transparency and accuracy in its disclosures. The company underscored that it has a robust system of communication to ensure that any material information, which requires disclosure under SEBI regulations, is disclosed accurately and promptly.

Investor Advisory: Disregard Misleading News

The company has advised investors and stakeholders to disregard any unverified and misleading information that may have been circulated in the media. It reiterated that any future material information requiring disclosure would be communicated through official channels as per regulatory requirements.

Summary of Key Points

• No Stake Acquisition: Ashok Leyland has denied any negotiations with Sumitomo Corporation regarding acquiring the promoter stake in SML Isuzu.

• Compliance with SEBI Norms: The company continues to adhere to SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, ensuring timely and accurate disclosures.

• Official Communication Channels: Investors are advised to rely only on official disclosures made through the stock exchanges and disregard any speculative media reports.

Conclusion

With this clarification, Ashok Leyland has put to rest the media speculations regarding its acquisition of SML Isuzu’s promoter stake. The company remains committed to transparency and regulatory compliance, assuring investors and stakeholders that any material developments will be disclosed promptly through official channels.

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