Alcon exercised its contractual right to postpone the special meeting of STAAR Surgical shareholders that was originally scheduled for December 19, 2025, moving the vote to January 6, 2026. The adjournment gives both companies additional time to address shareholder concerns and complete remaining regulatory and procedural steps before the merger vote.
The decision follows the expiration of STAAR’s “go‑shop” period, during which the company sought superior offers. No competing proposals emerged, leading Alcon to reaffirm its amended offer of $30.75 per share, valuing STAAR at roughly $1.6 billion and representing a 74 % premium to the 90‑day VWAP as of August 4, 2025.
Shareholder opposition remains significant. Large investors such as Broadwood Partners and Defender Capital have argued that the premium undervalues STAAR, and proxy advisory firms have issued mixed recommendations—ISS has updated its stance to “FOR” the merger, while Glass Lewis recommends “AGAINST.” The adjournment allows these parties to continue their campaigns and for Alcon to address their concerns.
Management has framed the deal as a strategic fit that will broaden Alcon’s access to vision‑correction solutions. CEO David Endicott highlighted that STAAR’s EVO ICL technology expands Alcon’s global reach, while STAAR’s limited scale makes an independent future less likely. The extended timeline is intended to solidify shareholder confidence and ensure regulatory compliance.
The adjournment does not alter the terms of the amended merger agreement. Alcon and STAAR remain committed to completing the transaction, with the next shareholder vote scheduled for January 6, 2026. The companies expect the extended period to provide clarity on remaining regulatory approvals and to address activist investor concerns.
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