JDS Uniphase/ SDL Merger

JDS Uniphase Corporation announced on July 10, 2000 that it had entered into a definitive merger agreement with SDL, Inc. of San Jose, California, in a transaction valued at approximately US$41 billion. Following completion of the proposed transaction, SDL will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of JDS Uniphase.

The merger of JDS Uniphase and SDL is expected to facilitate the creation and deployment of high-capacity, flexible optical networks by accelerating the delivery of advanced products and basic building blocks of optical networks. These include optical amplifiers, lossless optical switches, integrated optical modules and other innovative solutions. The strong technology platforms of both companies encompass high-speed electronics, different forms of modulation, advanced multiplexing, enhanced active technologies, and a broad passive portfolio intended to make these products a reality.

Torys is Canadian counsel to JDS, advising primarily on competition law matters. The Torys’ team is comprised of Jay Holsten and Michael Barrett (advising on competition law matters) and Sharon Pel, Nicole Rosenberg and Nathan Verhagen (assisting on other corporate matters). Paul Crampton and Brian Facey of Davies, Ward & Beck are Canadian counsel to SDL, advising on competition law matters.