ATON lets M&R offer lapse

German investment house ATON has allowed its R7.6-billion offer for JSE-listed Murray & Roberts (M&R) to lapse after failing to obtain clearances or approvals in all relevant jurisdictions, including South Africa, by September 30. ATON already owns 44% of M&R, and initially made an offer to buy the remainder of shares for R15 apiece, but later increased the offer to R17 a share.