KKR (KKR.US) is close to acquiring the Swedish consumer healthcare company Karo for over 2.5 billion euros.

According to sources familiar with the matter, KKR & Co (KKR.US) is close to acquiring Swedish consumer healthcare company Karo Healthcare, with the transaction valuing Karo at potentially over 2.5 billion euros (approximately 2.7 billion US dollars). Sources indicate that the New York-based KKR has beaten out other private equity firms in the bidding process and is currently finalizing the deal terms with Karo's owner, EQT AB. The acquisition news could be announced as early as this week, according to sources. Sources also mention that while negotiations are in the final stages, there is still a possibility of a delay or the deal falling through. With US President Donald Trump announcing tariffs on nearly all countries, investors are reassessing the global economic outlook, leading to billion-dollar acquisition deals and initial public offerings (IPOs) being put on hold. Information shows that Karo Healthcare, headquartered in Stockholm, has around 460 employees and distributes its products to over 90 countries. The company owns the E45 skincare brand, as well as selling products for coughs, colds, and vitamins.