WISeKey and Columbus Acquisition execute merger for WISeSat spin-off

WISeKey International Holding AG (NASDAQ: WKEY) and Columbus Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: COLA) announced a definitive business combination agreement to publicly list WISeKey's satellite subsidiary WISeSat.Space Corp. The transaction, dated November 9, 2025, will create a new public company called WISeSat.Space Holdings Corp. on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange.

Under the agreement, WISeKey will receive 25 million shares in the new public company at $10 per share, representing $250 million in equity value. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, with WISeKey retaining majority ownership of the combined entity.

WISeSat operates a constellation of nanosatellites designed to provide secure Internet of Things connectivity. The company has launched 22 satellites with 14 currently operational as part of its Low Earth Orbit constellation. WISeSat plans to deploy 100 satellites by 2030 to serve industries including agriculture, logistics, defense, and environmental monitoring.

The satellites incorporate post-quantum cryptographic chips from SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES), another WISeKey subsidiary, along with encryption and authentication systems. WISeSat plans to launch its next-generation post-quantum-secure satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in November 2025.

WISeKey and SEALSQ are expected to invest at least $10 million in cash to WISeSat in connection with the business combination. The agreement allows WISeKey to distribute up to 10% of its received shares to its shareholders immediately after closing.

The transaction requires approval from Columbus shareholders and other customary closing conditions. Both companies' boards of directors have unanimously approved the agreement. WISeKey, as the sole holder of WISeSat shares, has also approved the transaction.

Maxim Group LLC serves as exclusive financial advisor to WISeKey, while EGS LLP acts as legal advisor to WISeSat and Loeb & Loeb LLP advises Columbus.

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