News in brief: RFMD, Carl Zeiss, RSoft Design
RF Micro Devices hopes to raise $200 million by issuing convertible subordinated notes (plus an additional amount of up to $30 million at the option of the initial purchasers) in a private placement.
The notes, which are due in 2010, will be convertible into the company s common stock at the option of the holder, at a price to be determined. The offering is expected to close next week.
RFMD to use the net proceeds of the anticipated offering for working capital and other general corporate purposes. In addition, the company may use a portion of the net proceeds to retire certain long-term debt.
Carl Zeiss opens new microscope assembly hall
Carl Zeiss Group has opened an ultramodern assembly hall for the production of microscope systems in its factory at Göttingen, Germany. factory was officially opened on June 3, 2003.
"With the new assembly hall, we have laid important foundations for our future business success," said Norbert Gorny, member of the Carl Zeiss board, at the opening ceremony on June 3. "This investment underlines our goals to extend the activities of Carl Zeiss in the Life Sciences growth market, and to enhance our commitment to materials microscopy."
An total investment of EUR 10 million was required for the new 3000 m2 production area, which was constructed in less than one year. Part of this sum was funded by the Lower Saxony region.
RSoft Design Group opens European office
RSoft Design Group has opened its first European office, based in the UK. RSoft Design Europe will sell the software company s component design tools in Europe and will provide direct technical support.
