ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
LETTER TO ZIM SHAREHOLDERS
March 19, 2026
Dear Shareholders:
We cordially invite you to attend the Special General Meeting of Shareholders (the “ZIM special general meeting”) of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (“ZIM” or the “Company”) to be held at
4:00 p.m., Israel time, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel.
As previously announced, ZIM entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 16, 2026, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to
the accompanying proxy statement (as it may be amended from time to time, the “merger agreement”), with Hapag-Lloyd AG, a German stock corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) incorporated under the laws of Germany
(“Parent”), and Norazia (Israel) Ltd., a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Parent (“Merger Sub”). Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth therein, Merger Sub (as the target company (Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), with ZIM surviving the merger and becoming a wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent (the “merger”).
The meeting is being called for the following purposes:
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(1)
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The Merger Proposal. To approve, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999 (the “Israeli Companies Law”), the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February
16, 2026, by and among the Company, Parent and Merger Sub, and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Israeli Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge
with and into the Company, with the Company surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by the Company’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of “Converted Shares” and “Deemed
Cancelled Shares” (each as defined in the merger agreement), consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger; and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
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(2)
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The Retention Bonus Proposals. To approve a one-time cash retention bonus to (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s
Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and board of directors, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the
merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and
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(3)
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The Compensation Policy Proposal. To approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, in the form attached to the accompanying proxy statement as Annex
B, for a period of three years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting.
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Pursuant to the merger agreement, ZIM cannot complete the merger unless its shareholders approve the merger proposal (Proposal No. 1). However, the completion of the merger is not contingent upon
the approval of the retention bonus proposals (Proposal No. 2) or the compensation policy proposal (Proposal No. 3).
The board of directors of ZIM (the “ZIM board”), after considering the factors to be more fully described in the proxy statement, has unanimously (i) determined that the terms of the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (the “transactions”), including the merger, are fair to, and in the best interests of, ZIM and its shareholders (the “ZIM shareholders”) and declared it advisable to enter into
the merger agreement, (ii) determined that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that the surviving company will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors, (iii) approved the
execution and delivery by ZIM of the merger agreement, the performance of its covenants and agreements contained in the merger agreement and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms and subject to the conditions
set forth in the merger agreement, and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger.
Accordingly, the ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote (1) “FOR” the merger proposal, (2) “FOR” the retention bonus proposals and (3) “FOR” the compensation policy
proposal, which are more fully described in the accompanying proxy statement.
Your vote is very important, regardless of the number of shares that you own. The approval of each of the merger proposal and the compensation policy
proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and
broker non-votes).
In the case of the merger proposal, the foregoing majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares must also include a majority of ZIM’s shares voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not
held by (a) Parent, Merger Sub or any person or entity holding, directly or indirectly, (i) 25% or more of the voting power of Parent or Merger Sub or (ii) the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors of Parent or Merger Sub, (b) a person or
entity acting on behalf of Parent, Merger Sub or a person or entity described in clause (a) above, or (c) a relative (as defined below) of, or an entity controlled by Parent, Merger Sub or any of the foregoing (each of (a), (b) and (c) above is
referred to as a “Parent affiliate”).
In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by
indicating “YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
In addition, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal must also satisfy one of the following additional voting conditions (the “Special Majority”) for each proposal: (i)
the majority of the shares that are voted at the meeting in favor of each such proposal, excluding abstentions and broker non-votes, includes a majority of the shares that are voted by shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and who do
not have a personal interest in the approval of such proposal (a shareholder who has a personal interest, an “Interested Shareholder”); or (ii) the total number of shares of the shareholders mentioned in clause (i) above that are voted against
the proposal does not exceed two percent (2%) of the total voting rights in the Company.
For purposes of determining whether a shareholder can be included in the Special Majority, a “controlling shareholder” is any shareholder that has the ability to direct the Company’s activities
(other than by means of being a director or officer of the Company) including a person who holds 25% or more of the voting rights in the general meeting of the Company if there is no other person who holds more than 50% of the voting rights in the
Company.
For the purpose of calculating the percentage of voting rights held, the holdings of two or more persons holding voting rights in the Company each of which has a personal interest in the approval
of the transaction being brought for approval of the Company shall be aggregated. A person is presumed to be a controlling shareholder if it holds or controls, by itself or together with others, one half or more of any one of the “means of control”
of a company.
“Means of control” is defined as any one of the following: (i) the right to vote at a general meeting of a company’s shareholders, or (ii) the right to appoint a director of a company.
A “personal interest” of a shareholder in an action or transaction of a company includes a personal interest of any of the shareholder or their spouse, brother or sister, parent, grandparent, or
descendant, as well as the descendant, brother, sister or parent of such shareholder’s spouse, or the spouse of any of the aforementioned (each such person, a “relative”) or an interest of a company with respect to which the shareholder or the
shareholder’s relative holds 5% or more of such company’s issued shares or voting rights, in which any such person has the right to appoint a director or the chief executive officer or in which any such person serves as director or the chief
executive officer, including the personal interest of a person voting pursuant to a proxy which the proxy grantor has a personal interest, whether or not the person voting pursuant to such proxy has discretion with regards to the vote; and excludes
an interest arising solely from the ownership of ordinary shares of a company.
We are not aware of any controlling shareholders as of the record date of the ZIM special general meeting. Other than members of the ZIM board and members of senior management, we believe that none
of our shareholders should have a personal interest in the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal, and be deemed an Interested Shareholder.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in connection with the approval of the
retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting, will be deemed to confirm that such
shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under the retention bonus proposals or the
compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone: +972-4-865-2170, or by email:
nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that status, and they in turn should
notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
Other than for the purpose of determining a quorum, broker non-votes will not be counted as present and are not entitled to vote. Accordingly, broker non-votes will have no effect on the outcome of
the vote. Abstentions will be counted for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is present, but will not be treated as either a vote “FOR” or “AGAINST” a matter.
We know of no other matters to be submitted at the meeting other than as specified herein. If any other business is properly brought before the ZIM special general meeting, the persons named as
proxies may vote in respect thereof in accordance with the recommendation of the ZIM board or, absent such recommendation, using their best judgment.
Shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31, 2026, are entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting.
Detailed proxy voting instructions are provided both in the proxy statement and on the enclosed proxy card, including for voting by telephone or the Internet. It is important that your shares be
represented and voted at the ZIM special general meeting. Accordingly, after reading the accompanying proxy statement, please mark, date, sign and mail the enclosed proxy card as promptly as possible in the enclosed stamped envelope or follow the
instructions for voting by telephone or the Internet. If voting by mail, the proxy must be received at the address indicated on the proxy card by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on April 29, 2026 (or such earlier deadline as may be indicated on
the proxy card), to be validly included in the tally of ordinary shares voted at the ZIM special general meeting. If you are a shareholder who holds shares in “street name” (i.e., through a bank, broker or other nominee), an earlier deadline may
apply to receipt of your voting instruction form. An electronic copy of the enclosed proxy materials will also be available for viewing at https://investors.zim.com/overview/. Physical copies of the proposed resolutions, together with the
form of proxy card for the ZIM special general meeting, may also be viewed prior to the ZIM special general meeting at the registered office of ZIM from Sunday to Thursday (excluding holidays), 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Israel time). ZIM’s telephone
number at its registered office is +972 (4) 865-2170.
Information about the ZIM special general meeting and the merger is contained in the accompanying proxy statement. In particular, you should carefully read the
section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 34 of the accompanying proxy statement. We urge you to read the proxy statement in its entirety.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the securities to be issued under the accompanying proxy
statement or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of the disclosure in this document. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
This document is dated March 19, 2026 and is first being mailed to shareholders on or around April 1, 2026.
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Sincerely,
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Yair Seroussi
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Chairman of the ZIM board
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ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING OF ZIM SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON APRIL 30, 2026
Notice is hereby given that a special general meeting of shareholders (the “meeting”) of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (“ZIM” or the “Company”) to be held at 4:00 p.m., Israel time, on
Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel.
As previously announced, ZIM entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 16, 2026, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to
the accompanying proxy statement (as it may be amended from time to time, the “merger agreement”), with Hapag-Lloyd AG, a German stock corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) incorporated under the laws of Germany
(“Parent”), and Norazia (Israel) Ltd., a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Parent (“Merger Sub”). Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth therein, Merger Sub (as the target company (Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), with ZIM surviving the merger and becoming a wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent (the “merger”).
The meeting is being called for the following purposes:
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(1)
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The Merger Proposal. To approve, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999 (the “Israeli Companies Law”), the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February
16, 2026, by and among the Company, Parent and Merger Sub, and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Israeli Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge
with and into the Company, with the Company surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by the Company’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of “Converted Shares” and “Deemed
Cancelled Shares” (each as defined in the merger agreement), consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger; and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
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(2)
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The Retention Bonus Proposals. To approve a one-time cash retention bonus to each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of
ZIM), and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and board of directors, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the
closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and
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(3)
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The Compensation Policy Proposal. To approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, in the form attached to the accompanying proxy statement as Annex
B, for a period of three years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting.
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Pursuant to the merger agreement, ZIM cannot complete the merger unless its shareholders approve the merger proposal (Proposal No. 1). However, the completion of the merger is not contingent upon
the approval of the retention bonus proposals (Proposal No. 2) or the compensation policy proposal (Proposal No. 3).
The board of directors of ZIM (the “ZIM board”), after considering the factors to be more fully described in the proxy statement, has unanimously (i) determined that the terms of the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (the “transactions”), including the merger, are fair to, and in the best interests of, ZIM and its shareholders (the “ZIM shareholders”) and declared it advisable to enter into the
merger agreement, (ii) determined that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that the surviving company will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors, (iii) approved the
execution and delivery by ZIM of the merger agreement, the performance of its covenants and agreements contained in the merger agreement and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms and subject to the conditions set
forth in the merger agreement, and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger.
Accordingly, the ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote (1) “FOR” the merger proposal, (2) “FOR” the retention bonus proposals and (3) “FOR” the compensation policy
proposal, which are more fully described in the accompanying proxy statement.
Your vote is very important, regardless of the number of shares that you own. The approval of each of the merger proposal and the compensation policy
proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and
broker non-votes).
In the case of the merger proposal, the foregoing majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares must also include a majority of ZIM’s shares voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not
held by (a) Parent, Merger Sub or any person or entity holding, directly or indirectly, (i) 25% or more of the voting power of Parent or Merger Sub or (ii) the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors of Parent or Merger Sub, (b) a person or
entity acting on behalf of Parent, Merger Sub or a person or entity described in clause (a) above, or (c) a relative (as defined below) of, or an entity controlled by Parent, Merger Sub or any of the foregoing (each of (a), (b) and (c) above is
referred to as a “Parent affiliate”).
In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by
indicating “YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
In addition, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal must also satisfy one of the following additional voting conditions (the “Special Majority”) for each proposal: (i)
the majority of the shares that are voted at the meeting in favor of each such proposal, excluding abstentions and broker non-votes, includes a majority of the shares that are voted by shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and who do
not have a personal interest in the approval of such proposal (a shareholder who has a personal interest, an “Interested Shareholder”); or (ii) the total number of shares of the shareholders mentioned in clause (i) above that are voted against
the proposal does not exceed two percent (2%) of the total voting rights in the Company.
For purposes of determining whether a shareholder can be included in the Special Majority, a “controlling shareholder” is any shareholder that has the ability to direct the Company’s activities
(other than by means of being a director or officer of the Company) including a person who holds 25% or more of the voting rights in the general meeting of the Company if there is no other person who holds more than 50% of the voting rights in the
Company.
For the purpose of calculating the percentage of voting rights held, the holdings of two or more persons holding voting rights in the Company each of which has a personal interest in the approval
of the transaction being brought for approval of the Company shall be aggregated. A person is presumed to be a controlling shareholder if it holds or controls, by itself or together with others, one half or more of any one of the “means of control”
of a company.
“Means of control” is defined as any one of the following: (i) the right to vote at a general meeting of a company’s shareholders, or (ii) the right to appoint a director of a company.
A “personal interest” of a shareholder in an action or transaction of a company includes a personal interest of any of the shareholder or their spouse, brother or sister, parent, grandparent, or
descendant, as well as the descendant, brother, sister or parent of such shareholder’s spouse, or the spouse of any of the aforementioned (each such person, a “relative”) or an interest of a company with respect to which the shareholder or the
shareholder’s relative holds 5% or more of such company’s issued shares or voting rights, in which any such person has the right to appoint a director or the chief executive officer or in which any such person serves as director or the chief
executive officer, including the personal interest of a person voting pursuant to a proxy which the proxy grantor has a personal interest, whether or not the person voting pursuant to such proxy has discretion with regards to the vote; and excludes
an interest arising solely from the ownership of ordinary shares of a company.
We are not aware of any controlling shareholders as of the record date of the ZIM special general meeting. Other than members of the ZIM board and members of senior management, we believe that none
of our shareholders should have a personal interest in the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal, and be deemed an Interested Shareholder.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in connection with the approval of the
retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting, will be deemed to confirm that such
shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under the retention bonus proposals or the
compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone: +972-4-865-2170, or by email:
nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that status, and they in turn should
notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
Other than for the purpose of determining a quorum, broker non-votes will not be counted as present and are not entitled to vote. Accordingly, broker non-votes will have no effect on the outcome of
the vote. Abstentions will be counted for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is present, but will not be treated as either a vote “FOR” or “AGAINST” a matter.
We know of no other matters to be submitted at the ZIM special general meeting other than as specified herein. If any other business is properly brought before the ZIM special general meeting, the
persons named as proxies may vote in respect thereof in accordance with the recommendation of the ZIM board or, absent such recommendation, using their best judgment.
Shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31, 2026 (the “record date”), are entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting.
Detailed proxy voting instructions are provided both in the proxy statement and on the enclosed proxy card, including for voting by telephone or the Internet. It is important that your shares be
represented and voted at the ZIM special general meeting. Accordingly, after reading the accompanying proxy statement, please mark, date, sign and mail the enclosed proxy card as promptly as possible in the enclosed stamped envelope or follow the
instructions for voting by telephone or the Internet. If voting by mail, the proxy must be received at the address indicated on the proxy card by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on April 29, 2026 (or such earlier deadline as may be indicated on
the proxy card), to be validly included in the tally of ordinary shares voted at the ZIM special general meeting. If you are a shareholder who holds shares in “street name” (i.e., through a bank, broker or other nominee), an earlier deadline may
apply to receipt of your voting instruction form. An electronic copy of the enclosed proxy materials will also be available for viewing at https://investors.zim.com/overview/. Physical copies of the proposed resolutions, together with the
form of proxy card for the ZIM special general meeting, may also be viewed prior to the ZIM special general meeting at the registered office of ZIM from Sunday to Thursday (excluding holidays), 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Israel time). ZIM’s telephone
number at its registered office is +972 (4) 865-2170.
This document is dated March 19, 2026 and is first being mailed to shareholders on or around April 1, 2026.
THIS COMMUNICATION IS NOT A SUBSTITUTION FOR THE PROXY STATEMENT OR FOR ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS THAT ZIM MAY FILE WITH OR FURNISH TO THE U.S. SECURITIES EXCHANGE COMMISSION (THE
“SEC”) OR SEND TO SHAREHOLDERS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED MERGER. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH OR FURNISHED TO THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN
THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER.
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ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
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By:
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/s/ Yair Seroussi
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Name:
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Yair Seroussi
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Title:
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Chairman of the ZIM board
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PROXY STATEMENT
SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING OF ZIM SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON APRIL 30, 2026
ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
We are furnishing this proxy statement to our shareholders in connection with the solicitation by our board of directors (the “ZIM board”) of proxies to be used at a special general meeting of
shareholders (the “ZIM special general meeting”) of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (“ZIM” or the “Company”) to be held at 4:00 p.m., Israel time, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa,
Israel.
As previously announced, ZIM entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 16, 2026, a copy of which is attached as Annex A to
the accompanying proxy statement (as it may be amended from time to time, the “merger agreement”), with Hapag-Lloyd AG, a German stock corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) incorporated under the laws of Germany
(“Parent”), and Norazia (Israel) Ltd., a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel and a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Parent (“Merger Sub”). Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth therein, Merger Sub (as the target company (Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), with ZIM surviving the merger and becoming a wholly owned
subsidiary of Parent (the “merger”).
The meeting is being called for the following purposes:
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(1)
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The Merger Proposal. To approve, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999 (the “Israeli Companies Law”), the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February
16, 2026, by and among the Company, Parent and Merger Sub, and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Israeli Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge
with and into the Company, with the Company surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by the Company’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of “Converted Shares” and “Deemed
Cancelled Shares” (each as defined in the merger agreement), consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger; and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
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(2)
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The Retention Bonus Proposals. To approve a one-time cash retention bonus to each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b)
ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger
and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and
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(3)
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The Compensation Policy Proposal. To approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, in the form attached hereto as Annex B, for a period of
three years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting.
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Pursuant to the merger agreement, ZIM cannot complete the merger unless its shareholders approve the merger proposal (Proposal No. 1). However, the completion of the merger is not contingent upon
the approval of the retention bonus proposals (Proposal No. 2) or the compensation policy proposal (Proposal No. 3).
The ZIM board, after considering the factors to be more fully described in the proxy statement, has unanimously (i) determined that the terms of the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement (the “transactions”), including the merger, are fair to, and in the best interests of, ZIM and its shareholders (the “ZIM shareholders”) and declared it advisable to enter into the merger agreement,
(ii) determined that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that the surviving company will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors, (iii) approved the execution and delivery
by ZIM of the merger agreement, the performance of its covenants and agreements contained in the merger agreement and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the merger
agreement, and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger.
Accordingly, the ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote (1) “FOR” the merger proposal, (2) “FOR” the retention bonus proposals and (3) “FOR” the compensation policy
proposal, which are more fully described in the accompanying proxy statement.
Your shares can be voted at the meeting only if you are present or represented by a valid proxy or proxy card. Only shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 31, 2026 (the “record
date”) are entitled to notice of the ZIM special general meeting and to vote at the ZIM special general meeting or any adjournment, postponement or other delay thereof. You are also entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting if you hold
ZIM ordinary shares through a bank, broker or other nominee which is one of our shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31, 2026, or which appears in the participant listing of a securities depository on that date. Even if you plan
to attend the ZIM special general meeting, we request that you submit your proxy or voting instruction form in advance.
Your vote is very important, regardless of the number of shares that you own. The approval of each of the merger proposal and the compensation policy
proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and
broker non-votes).
In the case of the merger proposal, the foregoing majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares must also include a majority of ZIM’s shares voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not
held by (a) Parent, Merger Sub or any person or entity holding, directly or indirectly, (i) 25% or more of the voting power of Parent or Merger Sub or (ii) the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors of Parent or Merger Sub, (b) a person or
entity acting on behalf of Parent, Merger Sub or a person or entity described in clause (a) above, or (c) a relative (as defined below) of, or an entity controlled by Parent, Merger Sub or any of the foregoing (each of (a), (b) and (c) above is
referred to as a “Parent affiliate”).
In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by
indicating “YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
In addition, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal must also satisfy one of the following additional voting conditions (the “Special Majority”) for each proposal: (i)
the majority of the shares that are voted at the meeting in favor of each such proposal, excluding abstentions and broker non-votes, includes a majority of the shares that are voted by shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and who do
not have a personal interest in the approval of such proposal (a shareholder who has a personal interest, an “Interested Shareholder”); or (ii) the total number of shares of the shareholders mentioned in clause (i) above that are voted against
the proposal does not exceed two percent (2%) of the total voting rights in the Company.
For purposes of determining whether a shareholder can be included in the Special Majority, a “controlling shareholder” is any shareholder that has the ability to direct the Company’s activities
(other than by means of being a director or officer of the Company) including a person who holds 25% or more of the voting rights in the general meeting of the Company if there is no other person who holds more than 50% of the voting rights in the
Company
For the purpose of calculating the percentage of voting rights held, the holdings of two or more persons holding voting rights in the Company each of which has a personal interest in the approval
of the transaction being brought for approval of the Company shall be aggregated. A person is presumed to be a controlling shareholder if it holds or controls, by itself or together with others, one half or more of any one of the “means of control”
of a company.
“Means of control” is defined as any one of the following: (i) the right to vote at a general meeting of a company’s shareholders, or (ii) the right to appoint a director of a company.
A “personal interest” of a shareholder in an action or transaction of a company includes a personal interest of any of the shareholder or their spouse, brother or sister, parent, grandparent, or
descendant, as well as the descendant, brother, sister or parent of such shareholder’s spouse, or the spouse of any of the aforementioned (each such person, a “relative”) or an interest of a company with respect to which the shareholder or the
shareholder’s relative holds 5% or more of such company’s issued shares or voting rights, in which any such person has the right to appoint a director or the chief executive officer or in which any such person serves as director or the chief
executive officer, including the personal interest of a person voting pursuant to a proxy which the proxy grantor has a personal interest, whether or not the person voting pursuant to such proxy has discretion with regards to the vote; and excludes
an interest arising solely from the ownership of ordinary shares of a company.
We are not aware of any controlling shareholders as of the record date of the ZIM special general meeting. Other than members of the ZIM board and members of senior management, we believe that none
of our shareholders should have a personal interest in the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal, and be deemed an Interested Shareholder.
In connection with each of the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal, the Companies Law permits, subject to certain requirements, the ZIM board to approve the proposal (or,
with respect to the retention bonus proposals, any portions thereof) even if the shareholders have voted against its approval, provided that the Company’s compensation committee, and thereafter the ZIM board, each determines to approve it, based on
detailed justifications, and after having reconsidered the matter and concluded that such matter is in the best interest of the Company.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in connection with the approval of the
retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting, will be deemed to confirm that such
shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under the retention bonus proposals or the
compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone: +972-4-865-2170, or by email:
nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that status, and they in turn should
notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
Other than for the purpose of determining a quorum, broker non-votes will not be counted as present and are not entitled to vote. Accordingly, broker non-votes will have no effect on the outcome of
the vote. Abstentions will be counted for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is present, but will not be treated as either a vote “FOR” or “AGAINST” a matter.
Each ZIM ordinary share is entitled to one vote upon each matter to be voted on at the ZIM special general meeting. No less than two shareholders present in person or by proxy, or who have sent
ZIM a voting instrument indicating the way in which they are voting and holding or representing at least thirty-three and one third percent (33.33%) of the voting rights in ZIM, shall constitute a quorum. If no quorum is present within half an
hour from the time appointed for the ZIM special general meeting, the ZIM special general meeting shall stand adjourned until the seventh day following the prescribed date of the ZIM special general meeting, (and if that day falls on a day other
than a business day in Israel, on the next succeeding business day), at the same time and place without there being any further notice to that effect, or to such other date, time and place as will be determined by the ZIM board by notice to the
shareholders, and at the adjourned meeting, the business for which the original ZIM special general meeting was convened, will be discussed. In the absence of a quorum at such adjourned meeting, a single shareholder at least (without reference to
the number of shares that he holds) present personally or by proxy, will constitute a quorum.
If you are a shareholder of record, your signed proxy card must be delivered physically to our offices by 5:00 p.m. Israel Time on April 29, 2026 (i.e., 10:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April
29, 2026) to be validly included in the tally of ZIM ordinary shares voted at the ZIM special general meeting. If submitted to our proxy tabulator, Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc., located at 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717, your signed
proxy card must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 29, 2026 (i.e., 6:59 a.m. Israel Time on April 30, 2026) to be counted towards the tally of ZIM ordinary shares so voted. In the alternative, a proxy card may be presented in
person to the chairperson of the meeting in order to be counted towards the tally of votes at the ZIM special general meeting. If you are a shareholder of record and attend the ZIM special general meeting, you may vote in person, and if you do so,
your proxy will not be used.
If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank, broker or other nominee, you are considered the “beneficial holder” of the ZIM ordinary shares held for you in what
is known as “street name.” If that is the case, you may instruct your bank, broker or other nominee how to vote by completing and returning the voting instruction form provided by your bank, broker or other nominee, or by providing voting
instructions via the internet (at www.proxyvote.com) or via telephone (as per the directions on the enclosed voting instruction form). If you plan to attend the meeting and vote in person, you will be
required to present a “legal proxy” from your bank, broker or other nominee, along with an account statement showing ownership of your ZIM ordinary shares as of the record date, in order to be given a ballot to vote the shares in person at the
meeting.
Additionally, in accordance with, and subject to, the provisions of our articles of association (“Articles”) and of the Companies Law, certain of our shareholders may present proposals for
consideration at the ZIM special general meeting by submitting their proposals in writing to the Company no later than 11:59 p.m. Israel Time on March 26, 2026, provided that such proposal is appropriate for consideration by shareholders at the ZIM
special general meeting. Such proposals should be submitted in writing to the Company at its registered offices, at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, to the attention of Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary of the Company.
If the ZIM board determines that a shareholder proposal has been duly and timely received and is appropriate for inclusion in the agenda of the ZIM special general meeting, the Company will publish a revised agenda for the ZIM special general
meeting in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Law by way of issuing a press release or furnishing a report on Form 6-K to the SEC. However, the record date will not change.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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11
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12
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23
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34
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39
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40
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45
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48
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79
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98
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101
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103
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104
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105
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105
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106
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A-1
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B-1
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C-1
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C-2
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This proxy statement, and the documents to which ZIM and Parent refer you in this proxy statement, as well as oral statements made or to be made by ZIM and Parent, may include certain
“forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (which we refer to as the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. All statements other than statements of historical or current
facts, including, without limitation, statements regarding the benefits of the merger, statements related to the expected timing of the completion of the merger, Parent or ZIM plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements
that are not historical facts, made in this proxy statement are forward-looking. This proxy statement uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “plan,” “predicts,” “should,”
“targets,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations and are
inherently uncertain. Actual results could differ materially for a variety of reasons. There are a significant number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements made or implied in this proxy
statement, including: (1) the parties may fail to satisfy any of the conditions to the closing of the transactions, including the potential failure to obtain approval by ZIM’s shareholders or applicable regulatory authorities; (2) ZIM may incur
unexpected costs, liabilities or delays relating to the transactions; (3) ZIM’s business may suffer as a result of uncertainty surrounding the transactions, disruption to the workforce in connection with the transactions and diversion of management
attention on matters related to the transactions; (4) ZIM may become subject to legal proceedings related to the transactions, and the outcomes thereof; (5) ZIM may be adversely affected by other economic, business and/or competitive factors; (6)
the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the transactions; (7) difficulties in recognizing benefits of the transactions; (8) the transactions may disrupt current plans and operations and
raise difficulties for employee retention; (9) impact of the transactions on ZIM’s business relationships; (10) other risks relating to the transactions, including the risk that the transactions will not be completed within the expected time period
or at all, and that its termination under certain conditions could result in ZIM’s requirement to pay a termination fee to Parent; and (11) those risks detailed from time-to-time under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s
filings and reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including ZIM’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on March 9, 2026, and future filings and reports by the
Company.
As a result of these and other factors, no assurance can be given as to our future results and achievements. Accordingly, a forward-looking statement is neither a prediction nor a guarantee of
future events or circumstances and those future events or circumstances may not occur. All of the forward-looking statements Parent and ZIM make in this proxy statement are qualified by the information contained or incorporated by reference herein,
including the information contained in this section and the information detailed in ZIM’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, Reports of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K and other filings ZIM makes with the
SEC, which are incorporated herein by reference. For additional information, see the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Where You Can Find More Information.”
Except as required by law, neither Parent nor ZIM undertakes or assumes any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or to reflect subsequent
events or circumstances or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.
This summary highlights selected information included in this proxy statement and does not contain all of the information that may be important to you. You should read this proxy statement and its
annexes carefully and in its entirety and the other documents referred to in this proxy statement before you decide how to vote with respect to the proposals to be considered and voted on at the ZIM special general meeting. In addition, Parent and
ZIM incorporate by reference important business and financial information about Parent and ZIM into this proxy statement, as further described in the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.” Each item in this summary includes a page
reference directing you to a more complete description of that item in this proxy statement.
Information About the Parties (page 39)
Parent
Ballindamm 25
20095 Hamburg, Germany
+49 40 3001-3705
With a fleet of 305 modern container ships and a total transport capacity of 2.5 million TEU, Parent is one of the world’s leading liner shipping companies. In the Liner Shipping segment Parent
has around 14,000 employees and 400 offices in 140 countries. Parent has a container capacity of 3.8 million TEU – including one of the largest and most modern fleets of reefer containers. A total of 130 liner services worldwide ensure fast and
reliable connections between more than 600 ports on all continents. In the Terminal & Infrastructure segment, Parent has equity stakes in 21 terminals in Europe, Latin America, the United States, India and North Africa. Around 3,000 employees
are assigned to the Terminal & Infrastructure segment and provide complementary logistics services at selected locations in addition to the terminal activities. Parent’s shares have been listed on Frankfurt Stock Exchange and Hamburg Stock
Exchanges under ticker symbol “HLAG” since November 6, 2015.
Parent’s legal and commercial name is Hapag-Lloyd Aktiengesellschaft. Parent’s principal place of business is located at Ballindamm 25, 20095 Hamburg, Germany.
Merger Sub
c/o Hapag-Lloyd AG
Ballindamm 25
20095 Hamburg, Germany
+49 40 3001-3705
Merger Sub, a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent. Merger Sub is newly formed, and was organized for the purpose of entering into the
merger agreement and effecting the merger. Merger Sub has engaged in no business activities to date and it has no material assets or liabilities of any kind, other than those incident to its formation and those incurred in connection with the
merger.
ZIM
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
ZIM is a global container liner shipping company with leadership positions in niche markets where it believes it has distinct competitive advantages that allow ZIM to maximize its market position
and profitability. Founded in 1945, ZIM is one of the oldest shipping liners, with 80 years of experience, providing customers with innovative seaborne transportation and logistics services with a reputation for industry leading transit times,
schedule reliability and service excellence. Moreover, ZIM continuously seeks to maximize operational efficiencies while increasing its profitability and benefitting from a flexible cost structure. ZIM has also developed a variety of digital
tools to better understand its customers’ needs through careful analysis of data, including business and artificial intelligence.
ZIM ordinary shares have been listed on NYSE under the symbol “ZIM” since January 28, 2021.
ZIM’s legal and commercial name is ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. ZIM’s principal place of business is located at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, P.O. Box 15067, Matam, Haifa, 3190500. The
telephone number of ZIM’s principal place of business is +972 4 8652111. ZIM’s website is www.zim.com. ZIM’s agent for service of process is ZIM American Integrated Shipping Services Company, LLC, whose address is 4425 Zim Way, Virginia Beach,
Virginia 23462, United States, and whose telephone number is 757-228-1300.
For more information about ZIM, please visit www.zim.com. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, ZIM’s website is not incorporated into, and does not form a part of, this proxy
statement or any other report or document on file with or furnished to the SEC. Additional information about ZIM and its subsidiaries is included in documents incorporated by reference in this proxy statement. Please see the section of this proxy
statement entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
The Merger and the Merger Agreement (page 48 and 79)
The terms and conditions of the merger are contained in the merger agreement, which is attached to this document as Annex A and is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Parent
and ZIM encourage you to read the merger agreement carefully and in its entirety, as it is the legal document that governs the merger.
Pursuant to the merger agreement, and upon the terms and subject to the conditions therein, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Companies Law, Merger Sub (as the target company
(Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. ZIM will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent and will
continue as the surviving company in the merger.
Merger Consideration (page 84)
As a result of the merger, each ZIM ordinary share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time will be converted into the right to receive $35.00 per share in cash (the “merger
consideration”), without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes.
Risk Factors (page 34)
You should carefully consider the information about these risks set forth under the section entitled “Risk Factors,” together with the other information
included or incorporated by reference in this proxy statement, particularly the risk factors contained in ZIM’s Annual Report on Form 20-F and Reports of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K and in other filings they each make with the SEC. ZIM
shareholders should carefully consider the risks set out in that section before deciding how to vote with respect to the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal to be considered and voted on at the ZIM
special general meeting. For additional information, see the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
The State Share Approval (page 75)
The State of Israel holds the Special State Share, which, among other things, requires (a) the Company to remain incorporated and registered in the State of Israel with its headquarters and
principal office domiciled in Israel, (b) the Company to maintain a minimal fleet of 11 seaworthy vessels that are fully owned by the Company, at least three of which must be capable of carrying general cargo, (c) at least a majority of the ZIM
board, including the chairperson, to be Israeli citizens, (d) the chief executive officer of the Company to be an Israeli citizen, and (e) prior written consent from the holder of the Special State Share for any transfer or issuance of shares
that confers possession of 35% or more of the Company’s issued share capital or that provides control over the Company.
In connection with the merger agreement, Parent entered into a binding memorandum of understanding with FIMI Opportunity 7, L.P. and FIMI Israel Opportunity 7, Limited Partnership (together,
“FIMI”), pursuant to which Parent and FIMI have agreed to use their respective reasonable best efforts to obtain the Special State Share Approval (as defined under “The Merger—Regulatory Approvals”) and have
further agreed to consummate the Special State Share Assumption (as defined under “The Merger—Regulatory Approvals”) in accordance with the terms of such memorandum.
Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to certain limitations, Parent has agreed to use reasonable best efforts to obtain a Special State Share Release, which may be obtained pursuant to a
Special State Share Assumption pursuant to which Parent causes at least 11 qualifying vessels to be sold or transferred to FIMI (or another qualifying Israeli partner) and FIMI (or such other qualifying Israeli partner) enters into a binding
assumption agreement with the State of Israel pursuant to which it assumes the rights and obligations of the Special State Share effective as of the closing of the merger.
For additional information, see the section entitled “The Merger—Regulatory Approvals” and “The Merger
Agreement—Reasonable Best Efforts.”
Treatment of ZIM Equity Awards (page 77)
The merger agreement provides that, at the effective time:
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Each option to purchase ZIM ordinary shares (“ZIM option”) granted under the Company’s 2018 Share Option Plan and the Company’s 2020 Share Incentive Plan (together, the “ZIM equity plans”) that is outstanding
and unexercised, whether vested or unvested, will be cancelled, and the holders thereof will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the exercise price (as determined in accordance with the formula in the merger agreement),
less applicable tax withholdings.
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Each ZIM option with a per share exercise price that is equal to or greater than the merger consideration will be cancelled for no consideration.
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Employee Compensation and Benefits (page 61)
Under the merger agreement, Parent has agreed to assume, honor and fulfill all ZIM benefit plans in accordance with their terms, as in effect immediately prior to the date of the agreement. For a
period of twelve months following the effective time, Parent is required to provide each employee of ZIM and its subsidiaries as of immediately prior to the effective time who continues to be employed by Parent or any of its subsidiaries after the
effective time (each, a “continuing employee”) with base salary (or hourly wage rate), short-term cash incentive compensation opportunities and severance payments and benefits that in each case is no less favorable than those in effect immediately
prior to the closing date, as well as other compensation (including long-term incentive compensation opportunities or cash equivalent), benefits and perquisites (excluding one-off awards, retention, change in
control compensation, defined benefit pension or post-employment health, severance and welfare benefits) that are substantially comparable in the aggregate to those provided immediately prior to the closing date. The merger agreement also provides
that continuing employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement or other labor agreement will have their employment terms and conditions (including compensation and benefits) governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement or
other labor agreement for a period of at least twelve months following the closing on terms no less favorable than those in effect on the date of the merger agreement. Parent is also required to credit continuing employees’ prior years of service
for purposes of vesting, eligibility, level of benefits and benefit accruals under any Parent employee benefit plans (subject to certain exclusions), and to use reasonable best efforts to (i) ensure immediate eligibility in new health or welfare
plans without waiting periods, (ii) waive any pre-existing condition exclusions and active-at-work requirements under new health and welfare plans and (iii) provide credit for any co-payments, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by any
continuing employee during the relevant plan year. If Parent directs ZIM to terminate its 401(k) plan(s), Parent will permit eligible continuing employees to participate in Parent’s 401(k) plan and to roll over their account balances, except to the
extent such rollover adversely affects the tax-qualified status of Parent’s 401(k) plan or is prohibited by the terms pf the Parent’s 401(k) plan. Parent is also required to honor all obligations under the Company’s short-term cash incentive
compensation plans for the fiscal year in which the closing occurs, make payments in accordance with plan terms and consistent with past practice and ensure that payments thereunder are no less than the amounts accrued under such plans for the
fiscal year in which the closing occurs. Parent has acknowledged that a “change in control” of ZIM will occur upon the effective time within the meaning of any ZIM benefit plan containing such a term.
Recommendation of the ZIM Board and Reasons for the Merger (page 88)
The ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the merger proposal. For the factors considered by the ZIM board in reaching this decision and
additional information on the recommendation of the ZIM board, see the section entitled “The Merger—Recommendation of the ZIM Board and Reasons for the Merger.”
Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Evercore Group L.L.C. (Page 62)
ZIM retained Evercore Group L.L.C. (“Evercore”) to act as financial advisor in connection with ZIM’s evaluation of strategic and financial alternatives, including the merger. As part of this
engagement, the ZIM board requested that Evercore evaluate the fairness to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than excluded shares), from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration. At a meeting of the ZIM board, Evercore
rendered to the ZIM Board its oral opinion, subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026, that as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations, qualifications and
conditions described in Evercore’s written opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders other than the holders of excluded shares.
The full text of the written opinion of Evercore, dated February 16, 2026, which sets forth, among other things, the procedures followed, assumptions made, matters considered and
qualifications and limitations on the scope of review undertaken in rendering its opinion, is attached as Annex C-1 and is incorporated herein by reference into this proxy statement in its entirety. The summary of the opinion of Evercore in
this proxy statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the written opinion. You are urged to read Evercore’s opinion carefully and in its entirety. Evercore’s opinion was addressed to, and provided for the information
and benefit of, the ZIM board (in its capacity as such) in connection with its evaluation of the proposed merger. The opinion does not constitute a recommendation to the ZIM board or to any other persons in respect of the merger, including as to
how any holder of ZIM ordinary shares should vote or act in respect of the merger. Evercore’s opinion does not address the relative merits of the merger as compared to other business or financial strategies that might be available to ZIM, nor does
it address the underlying business decision of ZIM to engage in the merger.
For more information, see the section entitled “The Merger—Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.,” beginning on page 62 and the full text of the written opinion of
Evercore attached as Annex C-1 to this proxy statement.
Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Barclays Bank PLC (Page 68)
Pursuant to an engagement letter, ZIM engaged Barclays Bank PLC ("Barclays") to act as financial advisor with respect to the proposed transaction. On February 15, 2026, Barclays rendered its oral
opinion (which was subsequently confirmed in writing) to the ZIM board that, as of such date, and based upon and subject to the qualifications, limitations and assumptions stated in its opinion, the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed
merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares).
The full text of Barclays’ written opinion, dated as of February 16, 2026, is attached as Annex C-2 to this proxy statement and is incorporated by reference herein.
Barclays’ written opinion sets forth, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, factors considered and limitations upon the review undertaken by Barclays in rendering its opinion. The summary of the opinion of Barclays set
forth in this proxy statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of such opinion. Holders of ZIM ordinary shares are urged to read the opinion in its entirety. Barclays’ opinion, the issuance of which was approved by
Barclays’ Fairness Opinion Committee, is addressed to the ZIM board in connection with its consideration of the proposed transaction, addresses only the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the
holders of excluded shares) of the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed transaction. Barclays expressed no opinion as to the fairness of any consideration to be paid in connection with the proposed transaction to the holders of any class
of securities, creditors or other constituencies of ZIM or as to the underlying decision by ZIM to engage in the proposed transaction. The opinion is not intended to be and does not constitute a recommendation to any holder of ZIM ordinary shares
as to how such holder should vote with respect to the proposed transaction.
Special General Meeting of ZIM Shareholders (page 40)
Date, Time, Place and Agenda
The ZIM special general meeting will be held at 4:00 p.m., Israel time, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel. The meeting is being held
for the purpose of considering proposals: (1) to approve the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of the merger, the merger consideration and all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the
merger agreement; (2) to approve a one-time cash retention bonus to (a) 14 of the office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office
holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and (3) to
approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, for a period of three years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting.
ZIM is not aware of any other matters to be submitted at the ZIM special general meeting other than as specified herein. If any other business is properly brought before the ZIM special general
meeting, the persons named as proxies may vote in respect thereof in accordance with the recommendation of the ZIM board or, absent such recommendation, using their best judgment.
Record Date
ZIM has fixed March 31, 2026 as the record date for the ZIM special general meeting. Any ZIM ordinary shares that are outstanding as of March 31, 2026, the record date, are entitled to be voted at
the ZIM special general meeting.
Required Votes
The Merger Proposal
The approval of the merger proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in
person or by proxy and voting thereon, excluding abstentions and broker non-votes.
At the ZIM special general meeting, the fulfillment of the following condition as part of the merger proposal vote will be required: the majority vote must include a majority of
ZIM ordinary shares voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not held by a Parent affiliate.
In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by
indicating “YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
The Retention Bonus Proposals and the Compensation Policy Proposal
The approval of each of the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary
shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes), and must also satisfy the Special Majority requirement.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in connection with the approval of the
retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting, will be deemed to confirm that such
shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under the retention bonus proposals or the
compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone: +972-4-865-2170, or by email:
nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that status, and they in turn should
notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
Voting by ZIM Directors and Senior Management
As of March 16, 2026, the latest practicable date prior to the date of this proxy statement, ZIM directors and senior management of ZIM beneficially owned, in the aggregate, less than one percent
of the issued and outstanding ZIM ordinary shares. ZIM currently expects that all of its directors and senior management will vote their shares “FOR” the merger proposal, “FOR”
the retention bonus proposals and “FOR” the compensation policy proposal. See “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management of ZIM” for more
details concerning the beneficial ownership of ZIM ordinary shares by ZIM’s directors and senior management.
Adjournment
If no quorum is present within half an hour from the time appointed for the ZIM special general meeting, the ZIM special general meeting shall stand adjourned until the seventh day following the
prescribed date of the ZIM special general meeting, (and if that day falls on a day other than a business day, on the next succeeding business day), at the same time and place without there being any further notice to that effect, or to such other
date, time and place as will be determined by the ZIM board by notice to the shareholders, and at the adjourned meeting, the business for which the original ZIM special general meeting was convened, will be discussed. In the absence of a quorum at
such adjourned meeting, a single shareholder at least (without reference to the number of shares that he holds) present personally or by proxy, will constitute a quorum. Adjournments are further subject to certain terms in the merger agreement. For
additional information, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—ZIM Special General Meeting and Board Recommendation”.
Interests of ZIM Directors and Senior Management in the Merger (page 17)
In considering the ZIM board recommendation, ZIM shareholders should be aware that the directors and senior management of ZIM may have certain interests in the merger that are different from, or in
addition to, the interests of ZIM shareholders generally. The ZIM board was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in making its recommendation that ZIM shareholders vote to approve the merger proposal. These interests
include, among others, the following:
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Continued director and officer indemnification and liability insurance coverage in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement;
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All outstanding ZIM options granted under the ZIM equity plans, and among these the outstanding ZIM options granted to the directors and senior managers, will be cancelled at the effective time of the merger
(whether vested or unvested), and the holders of in-the-money options will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the applicable per share exercise price, less applicable tax withholdings;
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Subject to the approval of the retention bonus proposals, each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President,
will be entitled to a one time cash retention bonus of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the
merger, or (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and
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With respect to members of senior management, provision of certain severance payments and benefits in the event of their qualifying terminations of employment.
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These interests are described in more detail below, and certain of them are quantified in the narrative and in the section entitled “The Merger—Interests of ZIM
Directors and Senior Management in the Merger”.
Conditions to the Merger (page 93)
The respective obligations of Parent and ZIM to consummate the merger will be subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
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ZIM Shareholder Approval—The approval of the merger agreement and the merger by the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM
ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes) (which we refer to as the “ZIM shareholder approval”);
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Government Consents (including Special State Share Approval)—(i) All applicable filings, registrations, waiting periods (or extensions thereof) and approvals relating to
the transactions under certain specified antitrust and foreign investment laws contemplated by the merger agreement shall have been made, expired, terminated or obtained, as the case may be, and remain in effect, and (ii) the Special State
Share Approval shall have been obtained;
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No Legal Prohibition—No governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has (i) enacted, issued or promulgated any law that is in effect as of immediately prior to the
effective time or (ii) issued or granted any order or injunction (whether temporary, preliminary or permanent) that is in effect as of immediately prior to the effective time, which, in each case, has the effect of restraining, enjoining or
otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the merger; and
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Statutory Waiting Period—At least 50 days have elapsed after the filing of the merger proposal with the Companies Registrar of the Israeli Corporations Authority (the
“Companies Registrar”) by each of ZIM and Merger Sub as required under the Companies Law and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the “ICA merger proposal”) and at least 30 days have elapsed after obtaining ZIM shareholder
approval.
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The obligations of Parent and Merger Sub to consummate the merger will be further subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
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Accuracy of Representations and Warranties—The accuracy of representations and warranties of ZIM in the merger agreement, subject to specified materiality standards
discussed in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Representations and Warranties”;
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Compliance with Covenants—Performance and compliance in all material respects by ZIM with the obligations, covenants and agreements required to be performed and complied
with by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing;
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No Material Adverse Effect—There not having occurred any material adverse effect (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger
Agreement—Representation and Warranties”) with respect to ZIM on or after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement);
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Officer Certificate—The receipt by Parent of a certificate, dated as of the closing date, signed by the chief executive officer or chief financial officer of ZIM,
certifying that the conditions set forth in the three bullet points immediately above have been satisfied; and
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No Government Proceeding—No governmental proceeding or requirement may be pending or in effect that would reasonably be expected to, or does, impose a Burdensome
Condition (as defined in the merger agreement) on the transactions.
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The obligations of ZIM to consummate the merger will be further subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
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Accuracy of Representations and Warranties—The accuracy of representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub in the merger agreement, subject to specified
materiality standards discussed in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Representations and Warranties”;
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Compliance with Covenants—Performance and compliance in all material respects by Parent and Merger Sub with the obligations, covenants and agreements required to be
performed and complied with by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing; and
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Officer Certificate—The receipt by ZIM of a certificate, dated as of the closing date, signed by the chief executive officer or chief financial officer of Parent
certifying that the conditions set forth in the two bullet points immediately above have been satisfied.
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No Solicitation of Other Offers by ZIM (page 88)
Under the terms of the merger agreement, subject to certain exceptions described below, ZIM has agreed that, from February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) until the earlier of the
effective time or the date (if any) on which the merger agreement is validly terminated pursuant to the merger agreement, except as explicitly permitted by the sections described below, ZIM will not and will cause each of its subsidiaries and
representatives not to, directly or indirectly:
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(a)
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solicit, initiate, engage in, knowingly encourage or knowingly facilitate any inquiry, proposal, discussion, offer or request that constitutes, or would reasonably be expected to lead to, an acquisition
proposal (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—No Solicitation of Other Offers by ZIM”) (it being understood and agreed that any act expressly permitted or required by these
provisions (such as informing Persons of the provisions of this section) will not in and of itself be deemed to solicit, encourage or facilitate any such acquisition proposal);
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furnish or cause to be furnished to any person or group any non-public information with respect to any inquiries or the making of any proposal that constitutes, or would reasonably be expected to result in, an
acquisition proposal;
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(c)
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enter into, continue or maintain discussions or negotiations with any person (other than Parent, Merger Sub or any other subsidiary of Parent) with respect to an inquiry or an acquisition proposal (other than
informing persons of these provisions);
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approve, endorse, recommend, agree to or accept, or publicly propose to approve, endorse, recommend, agree to or accept, any acquisition proposal;
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submit to a vote of its shareholders any acquisition proposal;
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withdraw, amend, qualify or modify, in each case in a manner adverse to Parent in any material respect, the ZIM board recommendation, or fail to include the ZIM board recommendation in the proxy statement;
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if a tender offer or exchange offer that constitutes an acquisition proposal is commenced (other than by Parent, Merger Sub or any other subsidiary of Parent), fail to recommend against acceptance of such
acquisition proposal within ten business days after the commencement thereof in any solicitation or recommendation statement filed or furnished with the SEC (any action referred to in the foregoing clauses (d), (e), (f) or (g) being a
“change of recommendation”); or
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enter into any agreement in principle, letter of intent, term sheet, merger agreement, acquisition agreement, option agreement or other similar instrument providing for an acquisition proposal.
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In addition, under the merger agreement, ZIM was required to, promptly after the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, cease and cause to be terminated any and all existing activities,
discussions or negotiations with any third party with respect to any acquisition proposal. In furtherance of the foregoing, ZIM was required to, and did, (A) within five (5) business days after the date of the merger agreement, request in writing
that each person that, within the twelve (12) months prior to the date of the merger agreement, had executed a confidentiality agreement in connection with, or had access to any physical or electronic data room relating to, the consideration of an
acquisition proposal or potential acquisition proposal promptly destroy or return to ZIM all nonpublic information furnished by ZIM or any of its Representatives to such person or any of its Representatives in accordance with the terms of such
confidentiality agreement and (B) within one (1) business day after the date of the merger agreement, terminate access to any physical or electronic data rooms relating to the consideration of an acquisition proposal or potential acquisition
proposal by any such person and its Representatives.
Notwithstanding the limitations described above, if ZIM receives, prior to the ZIM special general meeting, a bona fide acquisition proposal from any third party, and provided there has otherwise
been no breach in any material respect of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations that resulted in the making of such acquisition proposal, ZIM and its representatives are permitted, prior to the ZIM special general meeting, to furnish non-public
information to and afford access to the business, employees, officers, contracts, properties, assets, books and records of ZIM and its subsidiaries to such third party and its representatives, or engage in discussions or negotiations with such
third party with respect to such acquisition proposal; provided that, in either case, the ZIM board has determined, in its good faith judgment (after consultation with its financial advisors and outside legal counsel), that such acquisition
proposal constitutes or would reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal and that the failure to take such action would reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law. Any non-public
information provided to such third party must be provided pursuant to a customary confidentiality agreement with terms at least as restrictive as those contained in the confidentiality agreement entered into between ZIM and Parent that does not
prohibit compliance by ZIM with any of the provisions of the merger agreement.
Change of Recommendation; Match Rights (page 90)
ZIM Restrictions on Changes of Recommendation
Subject to certain exceptions described below, the ZIM board may not effect a change of recommendation (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—No Solicitation of Other Offers by ZIM”).
Permitted Changes of Recommendation in Connection with a Superior Proposal or Intervening Event
At any time prior to the ZIM shareholder approval being obtained:
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the ZIM board may make a change of recommendation in response to an intervening event (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—No Solicitation of Other Offers by ZIM”) or a superior proposal if the ZIM board has determined in good faith after consultation with ZIM’s outside legal counsel and financial advisors that the failure to take such action
would be reasonably likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law; or
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the ZIM board may cause ZIM to terminate the merger agreement in order to enter into a definitive written agreement providing for a superior proposal received after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger
agreement), provided that (1) there has been no breach in any material respect of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations that resulted in such superior proposal, and (2) substantially concurrently with such termination, ZIM pays to Parent the
$150 million termination fee described under the sections entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination Fee”.
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Prior to making a change of recommendation for any reason set forth above, ZIM must provide Parent with four (4) business days’ prior written notice (the “Notice Period”) advising Parent that the
ZIM board intends to effect a change of recommendation and specifying the material circumstances giving rise to the change of recommendation. In the case of a superior proposal, such notice must include the identity of the third party and copies of
the written agreements proposed with respect thereto. During the Notice Period, ZIM must negotiate with Parent in good faith (to the extent Parent desires to negotiate) any proposal by Parent to amend the merger agreement in a manner that would (a)
in the case of a superior proposal, cause such superior proposal to cease to constitute a superior proposal, or (b) in the case of an intervening event, eliminate the need for the ZIM board to make such change of recommendation. The ZIM board must
again make the required determination regarding both (i) whether such acquisition proposal constitutes a superior proposal (or, in the case of an intervening event, whether the failure to make the change of recommendation would continue to be
reasonably likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties) and (ii) its fiduciary duties at the end of such Notice Period (after taking into account in good faith the amendments to the merger agreement proposed by Parent). If during
or after the Notice Period any material revisions are made to the superior proposal, ZIM must deliver a new written notice to Parent and comply with the foregoing requirements; provided, however, that for purposes of any such new notice, the Notice
Period will be reduced to two (2) business days.
Termination of the Merger Agreement (page 94)
Termination by Parent or ZIM
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the closing by mutual written consent of Parent and ZIM. The merger agreement may also be terminated at any time before the closing by
either Parent or ZIM, if:
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any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;
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the closing has not occurred on or before February 17, 2027, subject to an automatic extension to June 30, 2027 (such applicable date, the “outside date”), if all of the conditions to closing, other than those
related to (i) the making, expiration, termination or obtaining of applicable filings, registrations, waiting periods and approvals under applicable regulatory laws (the “other required regulatory approvals”) and the Special State Share
Approval, (ii) any order or injunction prohibiting the transaction under any regulatory law, or (iii) the statutory waiting period, have been satisfied or waived (except for those conditions which by their nature are to be satisfied at the
closing, provided that such conditions will then be capable of being satisfied if the closing were to take place on such date); and
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the ZIM shareholders meeting, including any adjournment or postponement thereof, at which the merger proposal has been voted upon has concluded and the ZIM shareholder approval has not been obtained.
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Termination by ZIM
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the closing by ZIM if:
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at any time prior to obtaining the ZIM shareholder approval, ZIM enters into a definitive written agreement providing for a superior proposal in accordance with the merger agreement; provided that substantially
concurrently with such termination, ZIM pays to Parent the $150 million termination fee described below; or
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upon a Parent breach termination event (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement—Termination by ZIM”).
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Termination by Parent
The merger agreement may be terminated by Parent:
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at any time prior to obtaining the ZIM shareholder approval, if the ZIM board has effected a change of recommendation (provided that a written notice delivered by ZIM to Parent stating ZIM’s intention to make a
change of recommendation in advance thereof will not in and of itself result in Parent having any termination rights);
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upon a ZIM breach termination event (as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement—Termination by Parent”); or
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a governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling permanently imposing a Burdensome Condition.
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Termination Fee (page 95)
ZIM Termination Fee
The merger agreement provides that ZIM will pay or cause to be paid to Parent a termination fee of $150 million (the “ZIM termination fee”) if all of the following occurs:
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(a) Parent or ZIM terminates the merger agreement as a result of (x) the closing having not occurred on or before the outside date or (y) the ZIM shareholder approval having not been obtained, or (b) Parent
terminates the merger agreement as a result of breach, failure to perform or violation of the merger agreement by ZIM that (except for a breach of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations) first occurred following the making of an acquisition
proposal of the type described in (2);
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after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) and prior to the date of the termination (or prior to the ZIM special general meeting in the case of a termination as a result of the ZIM shareholder
approval having not been obtained), a bona fide acquisition proposal has been publicly disclosed or otherwise made known to the ZIM board or management and, in each case, is not withdrawn (publicly, if publicly disclosed) at least three (3)
business days prior to the earlier of the date of the ZIM special general meeting (in the case of termination as a result of ZIM shareholder approval having not been obtained), the date of such termination (in the case of termination as a
result of the closing having not occurred on or before the outside date) or the date of the applicable breach (in the case of termination as a result of a ZIM breach termination event); and
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within 18 months of such termination, an acquisition proposal is consummated or a definitive agreement is entered into with respect to an acquisition proposal that is subsequently consummated (for purposes of
this trigger, references in the definition of “acquisition proposal” to twenty percent (20%) will be deemed to be fifty percent (50%)).
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In addition, the merger agreement requires ZIM to pay or cause to be paid to Parent the ZIM termination fee if any of the following occurs:
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Parent terminates the merger agreement because the ZIM board has effected a change of recommendation; or
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ZIM terminates the merger agreement in order to enter into a definitive written agreement providing for a superior proposal.
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In no event will ZIM be required to pay the ZIM termination fee on more than one occasion.
Parent Termination Fee
The merger agreement provides that Parent will pay or cause to be paid to ZIM a termination fee of $160 million (the “Parent termination fee”) if Parent or ZIM terminate the merger agreement as a
result of (A) the closing having not occurred on or before the outside date, (B) any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction having issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling permanently restraining,
enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (only if the order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling is in respect of a regulatory law, but not the Special State Share Approval or
any Israeli regulatory law (other than the Israeli Economic Competition Law 5748-1988)), or (C) Parent terminates the merger agreement due to a governmental entity of competent jurisdiction having issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction,
decree, judgment or ruling permanently imposing a Burdensome Condition (only if in respect of an other required regulatory approval, but not the Special State Share Approval or any Israeli regulatory law (other than the Israeli Economic Competition
Law 5748-1988)), and in each case of (A), (B) and (C), at the time of such termination, (x) certain regulatory conditions (excluding those relating to the Special State Share Approval and Israeli regulatory laws (other than the Israeli Economic
Competition Law 5748-1988)) will not have been satisfied, but (y) all other conditions to closing set forth in the merger agreement will have been satisfied or waived (except for those conditions which by their nature are to be satisfied at the
closing, provided that such conditions would be satisfied if the closing were to take place on such date).
In no event will Parent be required to pay the Parent termination fee on more than one occasion.
Financing of the Merger (page 78)
Parent expects to have access at the closing to all funds necessary to pay the merger consideration and consummate the transactions. Parent’s obligations under the merger agreement are not
contingent on obtaining financing or the availability of financing.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger (page 121)
The receipt by a U.S. Holder of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Generally, for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
a U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount of cash it receives pursuant to the merger (including any amounts required to be withheld for tax purposes) and its adjusted tax basis in the ZIM ordinary
shares exchanged for such cash. A U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in shares of ZIM ordinary shares will generally equal the amount that such U.S. Holder paid for such shares.
For a more detailed description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger, please see the section entitled “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Consequences of the Merger.”
Each ZIM shareholder should read the section entitled “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger” and should consult his, her or its tax
advisor with respect to the particular U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax consequences of the merger to such holder.
Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger (page 127)
The receipt by an Israeli shareholder of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger will be a taxable transaction for Israeli income tax purposes. Generally, for Israeli income tax purposes,
an Israeli shareholder will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount of cash it receives pursuant to the merger and its cost basis in the ZIM ordinary shares exchanged for such cash. An Israeli shareholder’s cost
basis in shares of ZIM ordinary shares will generally equal the amount that such Israeli shareholder paid for such shares.
For a more detailed description of the Israeli income tax consequences of the merger, please see the section entitled “Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the
Merger.”
This proxy statement contains a general discussion of the material Israeli income tax consequences of the merger. You should consult your own tax advisors
regarding the particular Israeli income tax consequences to you of the merger in light of your particular circumstances, as well as the particular tax consequences to you under any other tax laws.
No Appraisal Rights in the Merger (page 103)
Under Israeli law, holders of ZIM ordinary shares are not entitled to statutory appraisal rights in connection with the merger.
Delisting and Deregistration of ZIM ordinary shares (page 78)
If the merger is completed, the ZIM ordinary shares will be delisted from NYSE and deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and ZIM will no longer be
required to file periodic reports with the SEC pursuant to the Exchange Act.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER AND THE
ZIM SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
The following are answers to certain questions that you may have regarding the ZIM special general meeting. You are urged to read carefully the remainder of this document because the information in
this section may not provide all the information that might be important to you in determining how to vote. Additional important information is also contained in the annexes to, and the documents incorporated by reference in, this document.
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Why am I receiving this proxy statement?
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You are receiving this proxy statement because Parent, ZIM and Merger Sub have entered into the merger agreement. Pursuant to the merger agreement, and upon the terms and subject to the conditions therein, and
in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Companies Law, Merger Sub (as the target company (Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger) (which we refer
to as the “merger”), and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. ZIM will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent and will continue as the surviving company in the merger (we refer to ZIM after completion of the merger as the
“surviving company”). The merger agreement, which governs the terms of the merger, is attached to this proxy statement as Annex A.
The merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby (which we refer to as the “transaction”), including the merger, must be approved by the ZIM shareholders in accordance with the Companies Law and
Articles in order for the merger to be consummated. ZIM is holding the ZIM special general meeting to obtain that approval. Your vote is very important. ZIM is providing these materials to its shareholders to help them decide how to vote
their ZIM ordinary shares with respect to the approval of the merger agreement and the transactions, and other important matters. We encourage you to submit a proxy to have your ordinary shares, of no par value, of ZIM (which we refer to as
“ZIM ordinary shares”) voted as soon as possible.
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When and where will the ZIM special general meeting take place?
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The ZIM special general meeting will be held at 4:00 p.m., Israel time, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel.
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What matters will be considered at the ZIM special general meeting?
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The ZIM shareholders are being asked to consider and vote on:
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a proposal to approve, pursuant to the Companies Law, the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Companies
Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge with and into ZIM, with ZIM surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by ZIM’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of converted shares and
deemed cancelled shares (each as defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Merger Consideration”), consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any
applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective time of the merger; and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement (which we refer to as the “merger
proposal”), upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
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a proposal to approve a one-time cash retention bonus to each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly
base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing
of the merger agreement (which we refer to as the “retention bonus proposals”); and
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a proposal to approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, for a period of three years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting (which we refer to as the “compensation policy
proposal”).
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We know of no other matters to be submitted at the meeting other than as specified herein. If any other business is properly brought before the ZIM special general meeting, the persons named as
proxies may vote in respect thereof in accordance with the recommendation of the ZIM board or, absent such recommendation, using their best judgment.
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Yes. Your vote is very important. The merger cannot be completed unless the merger proposal is approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares
represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes).
Only ZIM shareholders as of the close of business on March 31, 2026, or the “record date,” are entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting. The ZIM board
unanimously recommends that ZIM shareholders vote “FOR” the approval of the merger proposal, “FOR” the approval of the retention bonus proposals and “FOR” the approval of the compensation policy proposal.
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Will my vote matter for the merger proposal?
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Yes. The merger cannot be completed unless the merger proposal is approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple
majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes), who are entitled to vote at the ZIM special
general meeting as of the close of business on the record date.
In addition, the foregoing majority to approve the merger proposal must also include a majority of ZIM ordinary shares voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not held by (a) Parent, Merger Sub or any
person or entity holding, directly or indirectly, (i) 25% or more of the voting power of Parent or Merger Sub or (ii) the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors of Parent or Merger Sub, (b) a person or entity acting on behalf of
Parent, Merger Sub or a person or entity described in clause (a) above, or (c) a relative of, or an entity controlled by Parent, Merger Sub or any of the foregoing (we refer to each of (a), (b) and (c) above as a “Parent affiliate”). As a
result, votes on the merger proposal by a Parent affiliate will not count towards the tally for the merger approval.
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Q:
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If my ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by my broker, bank or other nominee, will my broker, bank or other nominee automatically vote those shares for me?
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A:
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If your shares are held through a broker, bank or other nominee, you are considered the “beneficial holder” of the shares held for you in what is known as “street name.” The “record holder” of such shares is
your broker, bank or other nominee, and not you. If this is the case, this proxy statement has been forwarded to you by your broker, bank or other nominee. You must provide the record holder of your ZIM
ordinary shares with instructions on how to vote your shares. Otherwise, your broker, bank or other nominee may not vote your ZIM ordinary shares on any of the proposals to be considered at the ZIM special general meeting.
Brokers, banks or other nominees who hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name” for clients typically have authority to vote on “routine” proposals even when they have not received instructions from
beneficial owners, absent specific instructions from the beneficial owner of the shares to the contrary. However, brokers, banks or other nominees do not have discretionary authority to vote on “non-routine” proposals at the ZIM special
general meeting. On each of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal, if a beneficial owner does not provide instructions to his, her or its bank, broker or other nominee, then his, her or
its ZIM ordinary shares will not be voted. Because the only proposals for consideration at the ZIM special general meeting are non-routine proposals, it is not expected that there will be any broker non-votes at the ZIM special general
meeting. However, if there are any broker non-votes, they will have no effect on the outcome of the vote of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal.
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Q:
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What ZIM shareholder vote is required for the approval of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy
proposal, and how are abstentions and “broker” non-votes counted?
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A:
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The merger proposal. Approval of the merger proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares
represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes). The foregoing majority must also include a majority of ZIM ordinary shares voted in favor of the merger
proposal that are not held by a Parent affiliate. Broker non-votes, abstentions and failure to vote on the merger proposal will have no effect on the outcome of the vote.
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In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by indicating
“YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
The retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal. The approval of each of the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at
the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes). In addition, the approval of each of the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal requires the Special
Majority. Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder, and to avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by proxy card or voting instruction form, or via
telephone or internet, will be deemed to confirm that such shareholder is not an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder, your vote will count only for or against the ordinary majority, and not for or against the Special
Majority, and you should notify the Company as described in the proxy materials. Broker non-votes, abstentions and failure to vote on the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal will have no effect on the outcome of such
vote.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in
connection with the approval of the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting,
will be deemed to confirm that such shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under
the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone:
+972-4-865-2170, or by email: nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that
status, and they in turn should notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
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Q:
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Why does the proxy card (or voting instruction form) ask me to affirm that I am not a Parent affiliate?
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A:
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Under the Companies Law, approval of the merger requires not only a majority of votes cast, but also that this majority must also include a majority of ZIM ordinary shares that are not held by a Parent
affiliate.
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For this reason, each shareholder must affirm on the proxy card or voting instruction form that they are not a Parent affiliate. If a shareholder does not provide this affirmation, their vote will
not be counted towards the tally for the merger proposal. The Company is not aware of any ZIM shareholder that qualifies as a Parent affiliate.
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Q:
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Who will count the votes?
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A:
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The votes at the ZIM special general meeting will be counted by the ZIM corporate secretary.
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Q:
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What will ZIM shareholders receive if the merger is completed?
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A:
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As a result of the merger, each ZIM ordinary share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger (which we refer to as the “effective time”) (other than any excluded shares, as
defined in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Merger Consideration”) will be converted into the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes.
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Q:
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What is the Special State Share?
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A:
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The State of Israel holds a special state share of the Company (the “Special State Share”), which, among other things, requires (a) the Company to remain incorporated and registered in
the State of Israel with its headquarters and principal office domiciled in Israel, (b) the Company to maintain a minimal fleet of 11 seaworthy vessels that are fully owned by the Company, at least three of which must be capable of
carrying general cargo, (c) at least a majority of the ZIM board, including the chairperson, to be Israeli citizens, (d) the chief executive officer of the Company to be an Israeli citizen, and (e) prior written consent from the holder of
the Special State Share for any transfer or issuance of shares that confers possession of 35% or more of the Company’s issued share capital or that provides control over the Company. For a description of the Special State Share Approval,
the Special State Share Release, and the Special State Share Assumption (all as defined below), see the section entitled “The State Share Approval.”
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Q:
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What will happen to my ZIM options?
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A:
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The merger agreement provides that, at the effective time, each ZIM option granted under the ZIM equity plans that is outstanding and unexercised, whether vested or unvested, will be cancelled, and the holders
thereof will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the exercise price (as determined in accordance with the formula in the merger agreement), less applicable tax withholdings, in full satisfaction of the rights of such
holder with respect thereto. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the merger agreement provides that each ZIM option with a per share exercise price that is equal to or greater than the merger consideration will be cancelled upon the effective
time for no consideration.
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Q:
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How does the ZIM board recommend that I vote?
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A:
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The ZIM board unanimously recommends that ZIM shareholders vote “FOR” the approval of the merger proposal, “FOR”
the approval of the retention bonus proposals and “FOR” the approval of the compensation policy proposal. For additional information regarding how the ZIM board recommends that ZIM shareholders
vote, see the section entitled “The Merger—Recommendation of the ZIM Board and Reasons for the Merger.”
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Q:
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Who is entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting?
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A:
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The ZIM board has fixed March 31, 2026 as the record date for the ZIM special general meeting. All holders of record of ZIM ordinary shares as of the close of business on the record date are entitled to receive
notice of, and to vote at, the ZIM special general meeting, provided that those shares remain outstanding on the date of the ZIM special general meeting. Attendance at the ZIM special general meeting is not required to vote. Instructions on
how to vote your shares without attending the ZIM special general meeting are provided in this section below.
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Q:
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How many votes do I have?
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A:
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Each ZIM ordinary share is entitled to one vote on each proposal. Votes by Parent affiliates will not be counted towards the tally for the merger proposal.
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Q:
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What constitutes a quorum for the ZIM special general meeting?
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A:
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Each ZIM ordinary share is entitled to one vote upon each matter to be voted on at the ZIM special general meeting. No less than two shareholders present in person or by proxy, or who
have sent ZIM a voting instrument indicating the way in which they are voting and holding or representing at least thirty-three and one third percent (33.33%) of the voting rights in ZIM, shall constitute a quorum. If no quorum is present
within half an hour from the time appointed for the ZIM special general meeting, the ZIM special general meeting shall stand adjourned until the seventh day following the prescribed date of the ZIM special general meeting, (and if that
day falls on a day other than a business day in Israel, on the next succeeding business day), at the same time and place without there being any further notice to that effect, or to such other date, time and place as will be determined by
the ZIM board by notice to the shareholders, and at the adjourned meeting, the business for which the original ZIM special general meeting was convened, will be discussed. In the absence of a quorum at such adjourned meeting, a single
shareholder at least (without reference to the number of shares that he holds) present personally or by proxy, will constitute a quorum. For additional information, see the section entitled “The Merger
Agreement—ZIM Special General Meeting and Board Recommendation.”
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Q:
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Am I entitled to appraisal rights?
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A:
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No. Under Israeli law, holders of ZIM ordinary shares are not entitled to statutory appraisal rights in connection with the merger.
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Q:
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What will happen to ZIM as a result of the merger?
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A:
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If the merger is completed, Merger Sub will merge with and into ZIM. As a result of the merger, the separate corporate existence of Merger Sub will cease, and ZIM will continue as the surviving company in the
merger and as a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent. Furthermore, ZIM ordinary shares will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) and will no longer be publicly traded. ZIM shareholders are expected to be able to continue
to trade their ZIM ordinary shares on NYSE until the closing date of the merger.
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Q:
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I own ZIM ordinary shares. What will happen to those shares as a result of the merger?
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A:
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If the merger is completed, your ZIM ordinary shares will be converted into the right to receive the merger consideration. Each holder of a ZIM ordinary share that was outstanding immediately prior to the
effective time will cease to have any rights with respect to ZIM ordinary shares except the right to receive the merger consideration. For additional information, see the sections entitled “The
Merger—Consideration to ZIM shareholders” and “The Merger Agreement—Merger Consideration.”
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Q:
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What happens if the merger is not completed?
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A:
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If the merger proposal is not approved by ZIM shareholders or if the merger is not completed for any other reason, ZIM shareholders will not receive any merger consideration in connection with the merger and
their ZIM ordinary shares will remain outstanding. ZIM will remain an independent public company, and ZIM ordinary shares will continue to be listed and traded on NYSE.
If the merger agreement is terminated under specified circumstances, ZIM may be required to pay Parent a termination fee or Parent may be required to pay ZIM a termination fee. For a more detailed discussion of
the termination-related fees, see “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement.”
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Q:
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What is a proxy and how can I vote my shares?
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A:
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A proxy is a legal designation of another person to vote the shares you own. ZIM’s shareholders may vote either in person at the ZIM special general meeting or by authorizing another person as their proxy,
whether or not such shareholder attends the ZIM special general meeting. If you choose to attend the ZIM special general meeting and vote your shares, you will need the 16-digit control number included on your proxy card. If you are a
beneficial owner of ZIM ordinary shares but not the shareholder of record of such ZIM ordinary shares, you have the right to direct your broker, bank, or other nominee as to how to vote your shares if you follow the instructions you receive
from your broker, bank, or nominee. You can also choose to vote your shares before the ZIM special general meeting, by using the 16-digit control number, which is in the instructions accompanying your proxy materials, if your broker, bank,
or nominee makes those instructions available.
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Q:
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What are the way to vote my shares, and can I vote without attending the ZIM special general meeting?
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A:
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If you are a shareholder of record, there are four ways to vote:
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•
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by Internet at www.proxyvote.com or scan the QR code located on your proxy card 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on April 29, 2026 (have your proxy card in hand when
you visit the website);
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•
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by toll-free telephone at 1-800-690-6903, until 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time on April 29, 2026 (have your proxy card in hand when you call);
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•
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by completing and mailing your proxy card; or
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•
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by attending and voting during the ZIM special general meeting.
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In order to be counted, proxies submitted by telephone or Internet must be received by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on April 29, 2026. Proxies submitted by mail must be received at the address indicated
on the proxy card by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time, on April 29, 2026 (or such earlier deadline as may be indicated on the proxy card), in order to be counted towards the tallies of ZIM ordinary shares to be held at the ZIM special
general meeting.
If you are a “street name” shareholder, please follow the instructions from your broker, bank, or other nominee to vote by Internet, telephone, or mail before the meeting, in each case by using
the 16-digit control number, which is in the instructions accompanying your proxy materials, if your broker, bank, or nominee makes those instructions available. If you plan to attend the meeting and vote in person, you will be required to
present a “legal proxy” from your bank, broker or other nominee, along with an account statement showing ownership of your ZIM ordinary shares as of the record date, in order to be given a ballot to vote the shares in person at the meeting.
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Q:
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What is the difference between holding shares as a shareholder of record and as a beneficial owner?
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A:
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Shareholders of record. If ZIM ordinary shares are registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, you are considered the
shareholder of record with respect to those shares. As the shareholder of record, you have the right to vote during the meeting or vote through the Internet, by telephone, or by filling out and returning the proxy card.
Beneficial owners. If ZIM ordinary shares are held on your behalf in a brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee, you are considered to be the beneficial owner of
shares that are held in “street name,” and the notice was forwarded to you by your broker or nominee, who is considered the shareholder of record with respect to those shares. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your
broker, bank, or other nominee as to how to vote your shares if you follow the instructions you receive from your broker, bank, or nominee. You can also choose to vote your shares before the ZIM special general meeting by Internet or
telephone, in each case by using the 16-digit control number, which is in the instructions accompanying your proxy materials, if your broker, bank, or nominee makes those instructions available.
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Q:
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What should I do if I receive more than one set of voting materials?
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A:
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You may receive more than one set of voting materials relating to the ZIM special general meeting if you hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name” and also directly in your name as a shareholder of record or
otherwise or if you hold ZIM ordinary shares in more than one brokerage account.
Shareholders of record. For ZIM ordinary shares held directly, complete, sign, date and return each proxy card (or cast your vote by phone or the Internet as provided on
each proxy card) or otherwise follow the voting instructions provided in this proxy statement in order to ensure that all of your ZIM ordinary shares are voted.
Beneficial owners. For ZIM ordinary shares held in “street name” through a broker, bank or other nominee, follow the instructions provided by your broker, bank or other
nominee to vote your shares.
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Q:
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If a shareholder gives a proxy, how will the ZIM ordinary shares covered by the proxy be voted?
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A:
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If you provide a proxy, regardless of whether you provide that proxy by phone, the Internet or completing and returning the applicable enclosed proxy card, the individuals named on the enclosed proxy card will
vote your ZIM ordinary shares in the way that you indicate when providing your proxy in respect of the shares you hold in such company. When completing the phone or Internet processes or the proxy card, you may specify whether your ZIM
ordinary shares should be voted for or against, or abstain from voting on, all, some or none of the specific items of business to come before the ZIM special general meeting.
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Q:
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How will my shares be voted if I return a blank proxy?
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A:
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If you sign, date and return your proxy without indicating how your ZIM ordinary shares are to be voted, then your ZIM ordinary shares will be voted as follows:
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•
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“FOR” the approval of the merger proposal, unless you have not affirmatively certified in your proxy that you are not a Parent affiliate, in
which case your ZIM ordinary shares will be abstained with respect to the merger proposal;
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•
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“FOR” the approval of the retention bonus proposals; and
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| |
•
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“FOR” the approval of the compensation policy proposal.
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|
Q:
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Can I change my vote after I have submitted my proxy?
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A:
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Yes. You may change your vote or revoke your proxy at any time prior to the vote at the ZIM special general meeting.
|
Shareholders of Record: If you are a shareholder of record, you may change your vote or revoke your proxy at any time before it is voted at the ZIM special general meeting by
(1) signing another proxy card with a later date and returning it to the Company’s proxy tabulator, Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. located at 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717, by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 29, 2026 (i.e.,
6:59 a.m. Israel Time on April 30, 2026), or physically delivering it to the Company’s Israeli registered office by no later than 5:00 p.m. Israel Time on April 29, 2026 (i.e., 10:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 29, 2026); (2) submitting a
new proxy electronically over the Internet or by telephone after the date of the earlier submitted proxy and prior to the ZIM special general meeting; (3) delivering a written notice of revocation to our Corporate Secretary prior to the ZIM
special general meeting; or (4) attending the meeting and voting in person at the ZIM special general meeting. If you wish to change your vote by mail, you should contact our Proxy Solicitor at the address set forth below and request a new proxy
card or voting instruction form.
Sodali & Co.
430 Park Avenue, 14th Floor,
New York, New York 10022
Shareholders Call Toll Free: (800) 662-5200
Brokers and Banks Call Collect: (203) 658-9400
Beneficial Owners: If you hold your ZIM ordinary shares in “street name” through a broker, bank or other nominee on NYSE, in order to change your voting instructions, you must
follow the relevant directions from your broker, bank, or other nominee, and must do so prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 29, 2026. You may also vote in person at the meeting if you obtain a “legal proxy” from your bank, broker
or other nominee and an account statement showing ownership of your ZIM ordinary shares as of the record date.
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Q:
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Where can I find the voting results of the ZIM special general meeting?
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A:
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The preliminary voting results will be announced at the ZIM special general meeting. The final voting results will be tallied by the ZIM corporate secretary based on the information provided by Broadridge
Financial Solutions, Inc. or otherwise, and the overall results of the ZIM special general meeting will be published following the ZIM special general meeting in a Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K that will be furnished to the
SEC by ZIM.
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Q:
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Are there any risks that I should consider as a ZIM shareholder in deciding how to vote?
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A:
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Yes. You should read this proxy statement in its entirety and carefully consider the risk factors set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors.”
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|
Q:
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What happens if I sell or otherwise transfer my shares before the ZIM special general meeting?
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A:
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The record date for ZIM shareholders entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting is earlier than the date of the ZIM special general meeting. If you transfer your ZIM ordinary shares after the record
date but before the ZIM special general meeting, you will, unless special arrangements are made, retain your right to vote at the ZIM special general meeting but will have transferred the right to receive the merger consideration to the
person to whom you transferred your ZIM ordinary shares.
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|
Q:
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When is the merger expected to be completed?
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A:
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Parent and ZIM are working to complete the merger as quickly as possible. Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions described in the section entitled “The Merger
Agreement—Conditions to the Completion of the Merger,” including the approval of the merger proposal by ZIM shareholders at the ZIM special general meeting, the transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026.
However, neither Parent nor ZIM can predict the actual date on which the merger will be completed, nor can the parties assure you that the merger will be completed, because completion is subject to conditions beyond either company’s
control. In addition, if the merger is not completed by February 17, 2027, subject to an extension to June 30, 2027, in order to obtain required regulatory approvals, either Parent or ZIM may choose not to proceed with the merger by
terminating the merger agreement.
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Q:
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What will I receive if the merger is completed?
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A:
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Upon completion of the merger, you will be entitled to receive the per share merger consideration of $35.00 in cash for each ZIM ordinary share that you own. For example, if you own 100 ZIM
ordinary shares, you will receive $3,500.00 in cash in exchange for your ZIM ordinary shares, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes. For additional information on the exchange of ZIM ordinary shares for the merger
consideration, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Exchange of ZIM Ordinary Shares for the Merger Consideration.”
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|
Q:
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How does the per share merger consideration compare to the unaffected market price of the ZIM ordinary shares?
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A:
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The $35.00 per share merger consideration (without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes) represents a 126% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $15.50 (which we consider to be the unaffected
share price) on August 8, 2025 (the last trading day before market speculation regarding a proposed transaction as a result of third party reporting), a 58% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $22.20 on February 13, 2026 (the last
trading day before the execution of the merger agreement) and a 90% premium to the volume weighted average ZIM share price of $18.45 over the 90 trading days preceding the execution of the merger agreement.
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|
Q:
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Will the per share merger consideration payable to me be subject to Israeli capital gains tax?
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A:
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The exchange of ZIM ordinary shares for the merger consideration pursuant to the terms and conditions of the merger will generally be a taxable event under Israeli tax law. In general, under Israeli tax law,
the disposition of shares of an Israeli company is considered a sale of an asset and may be subject to Israeli capital gains tax, unless a specific exemption applies under Israeli law or an applicable tax treaty. For example, under the tax
treaty between the United States and Israel, Israeli capital gains tax generally does not apply to a U.S. resident who sells shares of an Israeli company, provided certain conditions are met, including that the shares were held as an
investment and the seller did not hold a significant interest or have other specified connections to Israel. To benefit from an exemption, a valid certificate from the Israel Tax Authority is generally required before payment is made,
unless other provisions have been made.
Israeli law may also provide exemptions from capital gains tax for non-residents on the sale of shares of Israeli companies, subject to specific conditions. Shareholders who do not qualify for an exemption may
be subject to Israeli capital gains tax on the disposition of their ZIM ordinary shares in the merger.
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Each ZIM shareholder should read the section entitled “Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger” and should consult his, her or its tax advisor with
respect to the particular Israeli tax consequences of the merger to such holder.
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|
Q:
|
Will the per share merger consideration payable to me be subject to Israeli tax withholding?
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A:
|
According to Israeli law, unless Parent is provided with an exemption certificate issued by the ITA, Parent is required to withhold Israeli taxes from the per share merger consideration, regardless of whether
you are subject to Israeli capital gains tax. We intend to submit an application to the ITA for a ruling that is expected to apply to the merger consideration payable to ZIM’s Israeli-resident shareholders, non-Israeli resident
shareholders, and non-Israeli resident holders of equity awards of ZIM, in each case, as defined in the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance (New Version) 1961, as amended, or as will be determined by the Israel Tax Authority (other than recipients
covered under the options tax ruling), including instructions on how to identify any non-Israeli resident holders. With respect to such holders, the withholding tax ruling is expected provide for an exemption from withholding of Israeli Tax
at the source from the merger consideration, or clarify that no such obligation exists, or provide for instructions on how such withholding at the source is to be implemented, and in particular, with respect to the classes or categories of
holders of ZIM’s shares from which Tax is to be withheld (if any), the rate or rates of withholding to be applied.
This proxy statement contains a general discussion of the material Israeli income tax consequences of the merger. You should consult your own tax advisors regarding the
particular Israeli income tax consequences to you of the merger in light of your particular circumstances, as well as the particular tax consequences to you under any other tax laws.
For a more detailed discussion, see the section entitled “Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger.”
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|
Q:
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Will U.S. Holders be subject to U.S. federal income tax upon the receipt of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger?
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A:
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The receipt by a U.S. Holder of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Generally, for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, a U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount of cash it receives pursuant to the merger (including any amounts required to be withheld for tax purposes) and its adjusted tax basis
in the ZIM ordinary shares exchanged for such cash. A U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in shares of ZIM ordinary shares will generally equal the amount that such U.S. Holder paid for such shares. For more details, see “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger.”
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|
Q:
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Who will solicit and pay the cost of soliciting proxies?
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A:
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ZIM has retained Sodali & Co. (“Sodali”), a proxy solicitation firm, to perform various solicitation services in connection with the ZIM special general meeting. ZIM will pay Sodali a
customary fee of approximately $40,000 in connection with its solicitation services. Certain officers, directors, employees, and agents of ZIM, none of whom will receive additional compensation therefor, may also solicit proxies by
telephone, email or other personal contact. ZIM will bear the cost for the solicitation of the proxies, including postage, printing, and handling, and will reimburse the reasonable expenses of brokerage firms and others for forwarding
material to beneficial owners of shares.
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|
Q:
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What is “householding”?
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A:
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ZIM follows a procedure called “householding,” which the SEC has approved. Under this procedure, ZIM delivers a single copy of the notice and proxy materials to multiple shareholders who share the same address,
unless ZIM has received contrary instructions from one or more of such shareholders. This procedure reduces printing costs, mailing costs, and fees. Shareholders who participate in householding will continue to be able to access and receive
separate proxy cards. Upon written or oral request, ZIM will deliver promptly a separate copy of the notice and proxy materials to any shareholder at a shared address to which ZIM delivered a single copy of any of these materials. “Street
name” shareholders may contact their broker, bank, or other nominee to request information about householding.
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|
Q:
|
Should I send in my ZIM ordinary share certificates now? When can I expect to receive the merger consideration for my shares?
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|
A:
|
No. Please do not send your ZIM ordinary share certificates with your proxy card or voting instruction form.
Prior to the effective time, Parent will select a bank or trust company reasonably acceptable to ZIM to act as the exchange agent for the merger. If your ZIM ordinary shares are in certificated form, after the
merger is completed, the exchange agent will send you a letter of transmittal with detailed instructions regarding the surrender and conversion of your ZIM ordinary share certificates for the merger consideration.
If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in book-entry form, you will not need to complete a letter of transmittal.
For additional information on the exchange of ZIM ordinary shares for the merger consideration, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Exchange of ZIM Ordinary Shares
for the Merger Consideration.”
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You should read this proxy statement carefully and in its entirety, including the annexes, and return your completed, signed and dated proxy card by mail in the enclosed postage-paid envelope or submit your
voting instructions by phone or the Internet as soon as possible so that your ZIM ordinary shares will be voted in accordance with your instructions.
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Who can answer my questions about the ZIM special general meeting or the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement?
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If you have questions about the ZIM special general meeting or the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, you may contact ZIM’s proxy solicitor, Sodali; Shareholders Call Toll Free: (800) 662-5200.
Brokers and Banks may call collect: (203) 658-9400; Email: ZIM@info.sodali.com.
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Where can I find more information about Parent, ZIM and the merger?
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You can find out more information about Parent, ZIM and the merger by reading this proxy statement and, with respect to Parent and ZIM, from various sources described in the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
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If the ZIM special general meeting is adjourned or postponed, do I need to send new proxies?
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At any subsequent reconvening of the ZIM special general meeting, all proxies will be voted in the same manner as they would have been voted at the original convening of the ZIM special general meeting, except
for any proxies that have been validly revoked or withdrawn prior to the subsequent reconvening of the ZIM special general meeting.
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Do ZIM’s senior management and directors have any interest in the merger?
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ZIM’s directors and senior management may have interests in the merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of ZIM’s shareholders. The ZIM board was aware of these interests during its
deliberations on the merits of the merger and in deciding to recommend that ZIM shareholders vote in favor of the merger proposal. These interests are described in more detail under the caption “The
Merger—Interests of ZIM Directors and Senior Management in the Merger.”
These interests include, among others, the following:
• Continued director and officer indemnification and liability insurance coverage in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement;
• All outstanding ZIM options granted under the ZIM equity plans, and among these the outstanding ZIM options granted to the directors and senior managers, will be
cancelled at the effective time of the merger (whether vested or unvested), and the holders of in-the-money options will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the applicable per share exercise price, less applicable tax
withholdings; and
• Subject to the retention bonus proposals, 14 members of ZIM’s senior management (but excluding the directors of ZIM) set forth in the proxy statement will be entitled to a one-time cash bonus, equal to
12 monthly base salaries of such member of management, to be paid on the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger, or (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement.
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If I purchased my ZIM ordinary shares after the record date, may I vote these shares at the ZIM special general meeting?
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No. A shareholder is not entitled to vote shares purchased after the record date because the shareholder was not the record holder of those shares on the record date. Only the holder as of the record date may
vote shares. However, such shareholder’s ZIM ordinary shares, if held as of the effective time of the merger, will be automatically converted into and represent the right to receive the merger consideration.
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What happens if additional matters are presented at the ZIM special general meeting?
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The only items of business that the ZIM board intends to present at the meeting are set forth in this proxy statement. No ZIM shareholder has advised ZIM of the intent to present any other matter, and ZIM is
not aware of any other matters to be presented at the ZIM special general meeting. If any other matter or matters are brought before the meeting in accordance with the provisions of the Articles and the Companies Law, the person(s) named as
your proxyholder(s), if any, will have the discretion to vote your ZIM ordinary shares on the matters in accordance with their best judgment and as they deem advisable.
Any shareholder who intends to present a proposal at the ZIM special general meeting must satisfy the requirements of the Companies Law and the ZIM articles of association. Pursuant to and in accordance with
the Companies Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder, one or more shareholders holding at least 5% of the voting power in ZIM have the right to ask the ZIM board to include an item relating to the appointment or removal of a
director in the agenda of the meeting, and one or more shareholders holding at least 1% of the voting power in ZIM have the right to ask the ZIM board to include any other item in the agenda of the meeting, provided, that the proposed item
is suitable for discussion at the ZIM special general meeting. For a shareholder proposal to be considered for inclusion in the meeting, ZIM’s corporate secretary must receive the written proposal no later than March 26, 2026. If the ZIM
board determines that a shareholder proposal is appropriate to be added to the agenda of the ZIM special general meeting, ZIM will publish a revised agenda in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Law and the Articles.
ZIM currently does not contemplate that any matters other than as stated above will be considered at the ZIM special general meeting.
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In addition to the other information contained in or incorporated by reference herein, including the matters addressed in the section entitled “Cautionary Statement
Regarding Forward-Looking Statements,” ZIM shareholders should carefully consider the following risks before deciding how to vote with respect to the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal to be
considered and voted on at the ZIM special general meeting, together with general investment risks and all of the other information included in, or incorporated by reference into this proxy statement. This proxy statement also contains
forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Please read the section entitled “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
The risks described below are certain material risks, although not the only risks, relating to the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and each of Parent, ZIM
and the surviving company in relation to the merger. The risks described below are not the only risks that Parent or ZIM currently face or that Parent or the surviving company will face after the completion of the merger. Additional risks and
uncertainties not currently known or that are currently expected to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect the business, financial condition and results of operations of Parent or the surviving company.
If any of the following risks and uncertainties develop into actual events, these events could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition and results of
operations of Parent, ZIM and/or the surviving company. In addition, past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods.
ZIM shareholders will be forfeiting all rights with respect to their ZIM ordinary shares other than the right to receive the merger consideration, including the right to
participate directly in any earnings or future growth of ZIM.
If the merger is completed, ZIM shareholders will cease to have any equity interest in ZIM and will not participate in its earnings or any future growth.
Obtaining required approvals and satisfying closing conditions may prevent or delay completion of the merger.
The merger is subject to a number of conditions to closing as specified in the merger agreement. These closing conditions include, among others, (i) the
approval of the merger agreement and the merger by the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting; (ii) the Special State Share Approval; (iii) the
receipt of required regulatory approvals under applicable competition and foreign investment laws (approximately forty required regulatory clearances); (iv) the accuracy of the parties’ respective representations and warranties in the merger
agreement, subject to specified materiality qualifications; (v) compliance by the parties with their respective covenants in the merger agreement in all material respects; (vi) the absence of any law or order restraining, enjoining, or otherwise
prohibiting or making illegal the consummation of the merger; (vii) the lapse of at least 50 days after the filing of a merger proposal with the Companies Registrar of the Israeli Corporations Authority and at least 30 days after obtaining ZIM
shareholder approval; (viii) the delivery by the ZIM and Parent of their respective customary closing certificates; (ix) the absence of (A) any legal proceeding pending by a governmental authority that would reasonably be expected to result in a
burdensome condition (as defined in “The Merger Agreement—Reasonable Best Efforts”) or (B) any condition, objection, order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling imposing a Burdensome Condition and (x) the
absence of a company material adverse effect (as defined in the merger agreement) having occurred on or after the date of the merger agreement. The completion of the merger is not subject to any financing condition. The fulfillment of certain of
these conditions is beyond our control. There can be no assurance that any of the required approvals will be obtained, and the timing of obtaining such approvals cannot be predicted. Governmental authorities may impose conditions on the completion
of the merger or require changes to the terms of the merger agreement or other agreements to be entered into in connection with the merger agreement. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Parent and ZIM are not required to dispose of any
business or portion of the business of Parent or ZIM, respectively, or any of their respective subsidiaries or otherwise agree to any structural remedy required by any governmental authority in connection with any regulatory approval or otherwise
agree to conduct, restrict or operate the business or any portion of the business of Parent or ZIM, respectively, or any of their respective subsidiaries in connection with any regulatory approval if such dispositions, remedies or agreements would
amount to a regulatory burdensome condition (as defined in “The Merger Agreement— Reasonable Best Efforts”). The obligation of each of Parent and ZIM to complete the merger is also conditioned on, among
other things, the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the other party on the date of the merger agreement and on the closing date (subject to certain materiality and material adverse effect qualifiers), and the performance by the
other party in all material respects of its obligations under the merger agreement.
If the closing conditions are not satisfied or waived and the merger is not consummated by the outside date, either we or Parent may, under certain circumstances, choose not to proceed with the
merger and may terminate the merger agreement in accordance with its terms.
Moreover, if (A) Parent or ZIM terminates the merger agreement because the closing has not occurred by the outside date or the failure to obtain ZIM shareholder approval, or Parent terminates the
merger agreement as a result of certain merger agreement breaches by ZIM first occurring following a third party acquisition proposal of the type referenced in the following clause (B), (B) prior to the date of such termination (or prior to the
date of the ZIM special general meeting in the case of termination pursuant to a failure to obtain ZIM shareholder approval) a bona fide third party acquisition proposal is publicly disclosed (whether by ZIM or a third party), or otherwise made
known to the ZIM board or management, and, in each case, is not withdrawn (publicly, if publicly disclosed) at least three business days prior to (x) the date of the ZIM special general meeting (in the case of a termination pursuant to the failure
to obtain ZIM shareholder approval), (y) the date of such termination (in the case of a termination pursuant to the failure to close by the outside date) or (z) the date of the applicable breach (in the case of a termination pursuant to certain
merger agreement breaches by ZIM) and (C) within eighteen months of such termination, a transaction in respect of a third party acquisition proposal is consummated or a definitive agreement therefor is entered into that is subsequently consummated,
then, under certain circumstances as further described in the merger agreement, pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions described therein, on or prior to the date any such acquisition proposal is consummated, ZIM would be required to
pay Parent a termination fee of $150,000,000 in cash.
If the conditions are not satisfied or waived in a timely manner and the merger is not completed, ZIM’s shareholders will not receive any of the merger consideration of $35.00 per ordinary share.
Further, unexpected events, change or other circumstances could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement. In an event of failure to complete the merger, ZIM’s directors, senior management and employees may have expended extensive time
and effort and have experienced significant distractions from their work, ZIM’s business or workforce may have experienced significant disruptions in connection with the transaction and ZIM will have incurred significant transaction costs during
the period between signing the merger agreement and the failed closing and after. In addition, ZIM could be subject to litigation related to the transaction, including any failure to complete the merger.
No assurance can be given that the required ZIM shareholder approval and governmental and regulatory consents and approvals, including the Special State Share Approval, will be obtained or that the
required conditions to closing will be satisfied. If all required consents and approvals are obtained and the required conditions are satisfied, no assurance can be given as to the terms, conditions and timing of such consents and approvals. For a
more complete summary of the conditions that must be satisfied or waived prior to completion of the merger, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to the Merger.”
The State of Israel holds a Special State Share in ZIM, which imposes certain restrictions on ZIM’s operations and gives the Israeli government veto power over transfers of certain assets and share
ownership above certain thresholds, and the State of Israel may not provide the required approval for the merger.
The State of Israel holds a Special State Share in ZIM, which imposes certain limitations on ZIM’s operations and management activities and could negatively affect ZIM’s business and results of
operations. The Special State Share requires ZIM, among others: (i) to remain incorporated and registered in the State of Israel with its headquarters and principal office domiciled in Israel, (ii) to maintain a minimal fleet of 11 seaworthy
vessels that are fully owned by ZIM, at least three of which must be capable of carrying general cargo, (iii) at least a majority of the ZIM board, including the chairperson and chief executive officer, to be Israeli citizens and (v) prior
written consent from the holder of the Special State Share for any transfer or issuance of shares that confers possession of 35% or more of ZIM’s issued share capital or that provides control over ZIM.
There is no assurance that the Special State Share Release will be obtained, in a timely manner or at all, or under which conditions. If Parent cannot obtain the Special State Share Release, Parent
will not be required to complete the merger as planned and this may materially and adversely affect ZIM’s financial condition, results of operations, prospects, share price, business, growth plans and/or operations, as well as ZIM’s ability to
raise funds.
Because the Special State Share restricts the ability of a shareholder to gain control of ZIM, the existence of the Special State Share may have an anti-takeover effect and therefore depress the
price of ZIM’s ordinary shares or otherwise negatively affect ZIM’s business and results of operations.
ZIM directors, senior management and employees potentially have interests in the transactions that differ from, or are in addition to, the interests of ZIM shareholders generally.
You should be aware that some of the directors, senior management and employees of ZIM may be deemed to have interests in the merger that are different from, or in addition to, your interests as a
ZIM shareholder. These interests may include, among others, the following:
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Continued director and officer indemnification and liability insurance coverage in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement;
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All outstanding ZIM options granted under the ZIM equity plans, and among these the outstanding ZIM options granted to the directors and senior managers, will be cancelled at the effective time of the merger
(whether vested or unvested), and the holders of in-the-money options will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the applicable per share exercise price, less applicable tax withholdings;
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Subject to the approval of the retention bonus proposals, each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President,
will be entitled to a one time cash retention bonus of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the
merger, or (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement;
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With respect to members of senior management, provision of certain severance payments and benefits in the event of their qualifying terminations of employment; and
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ZIM is experiencing labor interruptions as a result of disagreements between ZIM management and unionized employees in connection with the merger and the related uncertainty that certain ZIM managers and
employees feel with respect to their future roles and long-term relationships with ZIM following the completion of the merger. If such disagreements persist or more disagreements arise and are not resolved in a timely and cost-effective
manner, such labor conflicts could have a material adverse effect on ZIM’s business and financial results or upon the ability to consummate the merger. Disputes with ZIM’s unionized employees may result in work stoppage, strikes and
time-consuming litigation.
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For additional information, see the sections entitled “The Merger—Interests of ZIM Directors and Senior Management in the Merger” and “The Merger Agreement—Employee Matters.”
As of March 16, 2026, ZIM directors, senior management, and their respective affiliates, as a group, beneficially held and were entitled to vote such number of ZIM ordinary shares representing less
than one percent of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares.
ZIM has incurred, and will incur, significant transaction and merger-related costs in connection with the merger, which may be in excess of those currently anticipated by ZIM and
which may be borne by ZIM if the merger is not completed.
ZIM has incurred and expects to continue to incur a number of non-recurring costs associated with negotiating and completing the merger, combining the operations of the two companies and achieving
desired synergies. These fees and costs have been, and will continue to be, substantial. The substantial majority of non-recurring expenses will consist of transaction costs related to the merger and include, among others, fees paid to financial,
legal and accounting advisors, proxy solicitation costs and filing fees. ZIM will also incur transaction fees and costs related to formulating and implementing integration plans, including facilities and systems consolidation costs and
employment-related costs.
Many of these costs will be borne by ZIM even if the merger is not completed. In addition, the merger agreement further provides that under specified circumstances, including after a change of
recommendation by the ZIM board and a subsequent termination of the merger agreement by Parent in accordance with its terms, ZIM may be required to pay Parent a cash termination fee of $150 million. The costs described above, as well as other
unanticipated costs and expenses, could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and operating results of ZIM if the merger is not consummated.
Litigation relating to the merger, if any, could result in an injunction preventing the completion of the merger and/or the incurrence of substantial costs to ZIM.
Securities class action lawsuits and derivative lawsuits are often brought against public companies that have entered into acquisition, merger or other business combination agreements like the
merger agreement. Even if such a lawsuit is without merit, defending against these claims can result in substantial costs and divert management time and resources. This risk increases if a court determines that the forum selection clauses in ZIM’s
articles of association or in the merger agreement are unenforceable, as this could lead to such claims being litigated in inconvenient fora, substantially increasing the costs and complexity of the proceedings. An adverse judgment could result in
monetary damages, which could have a negative impact on ZIM’s liquidity and financial condition. Lawsuits that may be brought against Parent, ZIM or their respective directors could also seek, among other things, injunctive relief or other
equitable relief, including a request to rescind parts of the merger agreement already implemented and to otherwise enjoin the parties from consummating the merger. One of the conditions to the closing of the merger is the absence of any law or
order restraining, enjoining, or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the merger. Consequently, if a plaintiff is successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting completion of the merger, that injunction may delay or prevent the merger from
being completed within the expected time frame or at all, which may adversely affect Parent’s and ZIM’s respective business, financial position and results of operations.
There can be no assurance that any of the defendants will be successful in the outcome of any potential future lawsuits. The defense or settlement of any lawsuit or claim that remains unresolved at
the time the merger is completed may adversely affect ZIM’s business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
The pendency of the merger agreement could materially harm ZIM’s business and results of operations.
The pendency of the merger may cause uncertainty about ZIM’s future and disrupt ZIM’s business. The merger agreement generally requires ZIM to operate ZIM’s business in the ordinary course and
restricts ZIM from taking certain actions until the merger is completed without Parent’s consent. The merger agreement includes covenants and other limitations which may limit ZIM’s strategic opportunities and ability to respond quickly to market
trends. These restrictions may prevent ZIM from pursuing otherwise attractive business opportunities, making certain investments or making other changes to ZIM’s business that could be beneficial to ZIM’s shareholders. While the merger is pending,
ZIM is subject to a number of risks that may harm ZIM’s financial condition, results of operations, prospects, share price, business, growth plans and/or operations and ZIM’s ability to raise funds, including, but not limited to:
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loss of current customers and business partners, including the termination of operational agreements for the joint operation of services with other competitors;
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restrictions on the execution of ZIM’s business strategy and plans, and ZIM’s ability to respond to market trends and industry developments;
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ZIM may incur significant costs, including legal, accounting and financial advisory fees, in connection with the merger;
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ZIM management’s attention and resources may be diverted from other ongoing business and strategic opportunities;
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ZIM could become subject to costly litigation in connection with the merger;
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ZIM’s current and prospective employees may feel uncertain about their future roles and relationships with ZIM following the completion of the merger, which may adversely affect ZIM’s ability to attract and retain key personnel and may
result in work unrest, strikes or other organizational actions by ZIM’s unionized employees; and
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ZIM may be exposed to media attention and public scrutiny in connection with the merger which may have a general negative impact on ZIM’s relationships with its employees, customers, suppliers or other business partners.
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The opinions of ZIM’s financial advisors will not reflect changes in circumstances between the signing of the merger agreement and the completion of the merger.
ZIM has received an opinion from each of Evercore and Barclays in connection with the signing of the merger agreement, but has not obtained updated opinions as of the date of this proxy
statement. Changes in the operations and prospects of Parent or ZIM, general market and economic conditions and other factors that may or may not be beyond the control of Parent or ZIM, and on which ZIM’s financial advisors’ opinions are based,
may significantly alter the value of Parent or ZIM or of ZIM’s ordinary shares by the time the merger is completed. The opinions do not speak as of the time the merger will be completed or as of any date other than the date of such opinions.
Because ZIM does not currently anticipate asking its financial advisors to update their opinions, the opinions will not address the fairness of the merger consideration, from a financial point of view at the time the merger is completed. The ZIM
board’s recommendation is that ZIM shareholders vote “FOR” approvals of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal.
For a description of the opinions that ZIM received from its financial advisors, see the section entitled “The Merger—Opinions of Financial Advisors.” A
copy of the opinions of Evercore and Barclays, ZIM’s financial advisors, are attached as Annex C-1 and C-2, respectively, to this proxy statement and are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
The merger agreement limits ZIM’s ability to pursue alternatives to the merger, may discourage certain other companies from making favorable alternative transaction proposals and,
in specified circumstances, could require ZIM to pay Parent a termination fee.
The merger agreement contains provisions that may discourage a third party from submitting an acquisition proposal to ZIM that might result in greater value to ZIM’s shareholders than the merger,
or may result in a potential competing acquirer of ZIM proposing to pay a lower per share price to acquire ZIM than it might otherwise have proposed to pay. These provisions include a general prohibition on ZIM from soliciting or, subject to
certain exceptions relating to the exercise of fiduciary duties by the ZIM board, entering into discussions with any third party regarding any acquisition proposal for ZIM or offer for a competing transaction. Further, even if the ZIM board
withholds, withdraws, qualifies or modifies its recommendation with respect to the merger proposal, unless the merger agreement has been terminated in accordance with its terms, ZIM will still have an obligation to submit the merger proposal to a
vote by its shareholders.
The merger agreement further provides that under specified circumstances, including after a change of recommendation by the ZIM board and a subsequent termination of the merger agreement by Parent
in accordance with its terms, ZIM may be required to pay Parent a cash termination fee of $150 million. For additional information, see the sections entitled “The Merger Agreement—No Solicitation of Other Offers by
ZIM,” “The Merger Agreement—Change of Recommendation; Match Rights” and “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement.”
The merger may not be completed on a timely basis, or at all, and the merger agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms.
The merger is subject to a number of conditions that must be satisfied or waived prior to the closing, which are described in the section entitled “The Merger
Agreement—Conditions to the Merger.” These conditions to the closing may not be satisfied or waived in a timely manner or at all, and, accordingly, the merger may be delayed or may not be completed.
In addition, if the closing has not occurred on or before the outside date, either Parent or ZIM may choose not to proceed with the merger by terminating the merger agreement, and the parties can
mutually decide to terminate the merger agreement at any time, before or after ZIM shareholder approval. In addition, Parent and ZIM may elect to terminate the merger agreement in certain other circumstances as further detailed in the section
entitled “The Merger Agreement—Termination of the Merger Agreement.”
Until the completion of the merger or the termination of the merger agreement pursuant to its terms, ZIM is prohibited from entering into certain transactions and taking certain
actions that might otherwise be beneficial to ZIM and/or their respective security holders.
From and after the date of the merger agreement and prior to the completion of the merger or the termination of the merger agreement pursuant to its terms, the merger agreement restricts ZIM from
taking specified actions without the consent of Parent and requires that each party use its reasonable best efforts to conduct its business in all material respects in the ordinary course. These restrictions may prevent ZIM, from taking actions
during the pendency of the merger that would have been beneficial. Adverse effects arising from these restrictions during the pendency of the merger could be exacerbated by any delays in the completion of the merger or termination of the merger
agreement. See the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conduct of Business Before Completion of the Merger.”
Parent and ZIM may waive one or more conditions set forth in the merger agreement without resoliciting the approval of ZIM shareholders.
Certain conditions to Parent’s and ZIM’s obligations to complete the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement may be waived, in whole or in part, to the extent legally
allowed, either unilaterally or by mutual agreement of Parent and ZIM. Any such waiver may not require resolicitation of ZIM shareholders, in which case the parties will have the discretion to complete the merger and the other transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement without seeking further approval of ZIM shareholders.
ZIM shareholders will not be entitled to appraisal rights in the merger.
Appraisal rights, which are also sometimes known as dissenters’ rights, are statutory rights that, if applicable under law, enable shareholders to dissent from an extraordinary transaction, such as
a merger, and to demand that the company pay the fair value for their shares as determined immediately prior to the effective time of the merger in cash, instead of receiving the consideration offered to shareholders in connection with the
extraordinary transaction. Under Israeli law, holders of ZIM ordinary shares are not entitled to statutory appraisal rights in connection with the merger.
Failure to complete the merger could negatively impact the price of ZIM ordinary shares, as well as ZIM’s future businesses and financial results
The merger agreement contains a number of conditions that must be satisfied or waived prior to the completion of the merger, which are described in the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Conditions to the Merger.” There can be no assurance that all of the conditions to the merger will be satisfied or waived. If these conditions are not satisfied or waived, Parent and ZIM will be unable to
complete the merger.
If the merger is not completed for any reason, including the failure to receive the ZIM shareholder approval, ZIM’s businesses and financial results may be adversely affected, including as follows:
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ZIM may experience negative reactions from the financial markets, including negative impacts on the market price of ZIM ordinary shares;
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the manner in which industry contacts, business partners and other third parties perceive ZIM may be negatively impacted, which in turn could affect ZIM’s marketing operations or its ability to compete for new
business or obtain renewals in the marketplace more broadly;
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ZIM will or may incur substantial transaction fees and other costs that will be unable to be recouped;
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ZIM may experience negative reactions from employees; and
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ZIM will have expended time and resources that could otherwise have been spent on ZIM’s existing businesses and the pursuit of other opportunities that could have been beneficial to ZIM, and ZIM’s ongoing
business and financial results may be adversely affected.
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In addition to the above risks, if the merger agreement is terminated and ZIM’s board seeks an alternative transaction, ZIM’s shareholders cannot be certain that ZIM will be able to find a party
willing to engage in a transaction on more attractive terms than the merger.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE PARTIES
Parent
Ballindamm 25
20095 Hamburg, Germany
+49 40 3001-3705
With a fleet of 305 modern container ships and a total transport capacity of 2.5 million TEU, Parent is one of the world’s leading liner shipping companies. In the Liner Shipping segment Parent
has around 14,000 employees and 400 offices in 140 countries. Parent has a container capacity of 3.8 million TEU – including one of the largest and most modern fleets of reefer containers. A total of 130 liner services worldwide ensure fast and
reliable connections between more than 600 ports on all continents. In the Terminal & Infrastructure segment, Parent has equity stakes in 21 terminals in Europe, Latin America, the United States, India and North Africa. Around 3,000 employees
are assigned to the Terminal & Infrastructure segment and provide complementary logistics services at selected locations in addition to the terminal activities.
Additional information about Parent and its subsidiaries is included in documents incorporated by reference in this proxy statement. Please see the section of this proxy statement entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
Merger Sub
c/o Hapag-Lloyd AG
Ballindamm 25
20095 Hamburg, Germany
+49 40 3001-3705
Merger Sub, a company organized under the laws of the State of Israel, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent. Merger Sub is newly formed, and was organized for the purpose of entering into the
merger agreement and effecting the merger. Merger Sub has engaged in no business activities to date and it has no material assets or liabilities of any kind, other than those incident to its formation and those incurred in connection with the
merger.
ZIM
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
ZIM is a global container liner shipping company with leadership positions in niche markets where it believes it has distinct competitive advantages that allow ZIM to maximize its market position
and profitability. Founded in 1945, ZIM is one of the oldest shipping liners, with 80 years of experience, providing customers with innovative seaborne transportation and logistics services with a reputation for industry leading transit times,
schedule reliability and service excellence. Moreover, ZIM continuously seeks to maximize operational efficiencies while increasing its profitability and benefitting from a flexible cost structure. ZIM has also developed a variety of digital
tools to better understand its customers’ needs through careful analysis of data, including business and artificial intelligence.
ZIM ordinary shares have been listed on NYSE under the symbol “ZIM” since January 28, 2021.
ZIM’s legal and commercial name is ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. ZIM’s principal place of business is located at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, P.O. Box 15067, Matam, Haifa, 3190500. The
telephone number of ZIM’s principal place of business is +972 4 8652111. ZIM’s website is www.zim.com. ZIM’s agent for service of process is ZIM American Integrated Shipping Services Company, LLC, whose address is 4425 Zim Way, Virginia Beach,
Virginia 23462, United States, and whose telephone number is 757-228-1300.
For more information about ZIM, please visit www.zim.com. Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, ZIM’s website is not incorporated into, and does not form a part of, this proxy
statement or any other report or document on file with or furnished to the SEC. Additional information about ZIM and its subsidiaries is included in documents incorporated by reference in this proxy statement. Please see the section of this proxy
statement entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
THE SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING OF ZIM SHAREHOLDERS
General; Date; Time and Place
The ZIM special general meeting will be held at 4:00 p.m., Israel time, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Company’s offices at 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, unless it is postponed or
adjourned.
Purpose of the ZIM Special General Meeting
The ZIM special general meeting is being held for the purpose of considering the following proposals:
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(i)
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The Merger Proposal. To approve, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 16, 2026, by and among the Company, Parent
and Merger Sub, and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Israeli Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge with and into the Company, with the Company
surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by the Company’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of “Converted Shares” and “Deemed Cancelled Shares” (each as defined in the
merger agreement), consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective time of the merger; and (c) all other
transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein;
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(ii)
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The Retention Bonus Proposals. To approve a one-time cash retention bonus to each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but
excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon
the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement; and
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(iii)
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Compensation Policy Proposal. To approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, for a period of three years from the date of the ZIM special general
meeting.
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With respect to the merger proposal, ZIM’s shareholders must indicate that they are not a Parent affiliate in order to have their vote counted towards the tally for the merger proposal.
Shareholders may also be asked to consider and, as applicable, vote upon, any other business that may properly come before the ZIM special general meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the ZIM special general meeting.
Shareholder Proposals
Any shareholder who intends to present a proposal at the ZIM special general meeting must satisfy the requirements of the Companies Law and the ZIM articles of association. Pursuant to and in
accordance with the Companies Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder, one or more shareholders holding at least 5% of the voting power in ZIM have the right to ask the ZIM board to include an item relating to the appointment or removal of a
director in the agenda of the meeting, and one or more shareholders holding at least 1% of the voting power in ZIM have the right to ask the ZIM board to include any other item to the agenda of the meeting, provided, that the proposed item is
suitable for discussion at the ZIM special general meeting. Such shareholders may present proposals for consideration at the ZIM special general meeting by submitting their proposals in writing to ZIM at its registered offices, at 9 Andrei Sakharov
Street, Haifa, Israel, to the attention of Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary of the Company. For a shareholder proposal to be considered for inclusion in the meeting, our corporate secretary must receive the written proposal no
later than March 26, 2026. If the ZIM board determines that a shareholder proposal is appropriate to be added to the agenda of the ZIM special general meeting, ZIM will publish a revised agenda in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Law
and the ZIM articles of association.
ZIM currently does not contemplate that any matters other than as stated above will be considered at the ZIM special general meeting.
Shareholders Entitled to Vote; Record Date
Shareholders of record who held ZIM ordinary shares at the close of business on the record date are entitled to vote at the ZIM special general meeting. Shareholders who, as of the record date,
held ZIM ordinary shares through a bank, broker or other nominee that is a shareholder of record of ZIM or that appears in the participant list of a securities depository, are considered to be beneficial owners of shares held in “street name”.
This proxy statement is being forwarded to beneficial owners by their bank, broker or other nominee that is considered the holder of record. Beneficial owners have the right to direct how their
shares should be voted and are also invited to attend the ZIM special general meeting, but may not vote their shares in person at the meeting without obtaining, prior to the meeting, a legal proxy from such bank, broker or other nominee that
authorizes them to vote their shares. The proxy materials contained herein for shareholders who, as of the record date, held ZIM ordinary shares registered directly in their name (or in the name of a trustee on their behalf) with Equiniti Trust
Company, LLC, or the ZIM transfer agent, are being sent directly to the shareholders (or to such trustee), who can vote their shares by attending the ZIM special general meeting or by completing, signing and returning the enclosed proxy card.
Alternatively, all of the above-described categories of ZIM’s shareholders as of the record date may vote their shares or direct how their shares are voted in other manners—without attending the
ZIM special general meeting—as detailed below. ZIM encourages all shareholders to vote their shares in advance of the ZIM special general meeting—by Internet, telephone or mail—whether or not they currently plan to
attend the ZIM special general meeting.
Any ZIM ordinary shares that are outstanding as of March 31, 2026, the record date, are entitled to be voted at the ZIM special general meeting.
Recommendation of the ZIM Board
The ZIM board, after considering various factors described under the caption “The Merger—Recommendation of the ZIM Board and Reasons for the Merger,” has
unanimously (i) determined that the terms of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, are fair to, and in the best interests of, ZIM and its shareholders and declared it advisable to
enter into the merger agreement, (ii) determined that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that the surviving company will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors,
(iii) approved the execution and delivery by ZIM of the merger agreement, the performance of its covenants and agreements contained in the merger agreement and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms and subject to
the conditions set forth in the merger agreement, and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger.
The ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote (1) “FOR” the merger proposal, (2) “FOR” the retention bonus
proposals and (3) “FOR” the compensation policy proposal.
Quorum
Each ZIM ordinary share is entitled to one vote upon each matter to be voted on at the ZIM special general meeting. No less than two shareholders present in person or by proxy, or who have sent
ZIM a voting instrument indicating the way in which they are voting and holding or representing at least thirty-three and one third percent (33.33%) of the voting rights in ZIM, shall constitute a quorum. If no quorum is present within half an hour
from the time appointed for the ZIM special general meeting, the ZIM special general meeting shall stand adjourned until the seventh day following the prescribed date of the ZIM special general meeting, (and if that day falls on a day other than a
business day in Israel, on the next succeeding business day), at the same time and place without there being any further notice to that effect, or to such other date, time and place as will be determined by the ZIM board by notice to the
shareholders, and at the adjourned meeting, the business for which the original ZIM special general meeting was convened, will be discussed. In the absence of a quorum at such adjourned meeting, a single shareholder at least (without reference to
the number of shares that he holds) present personally or by proxy, will constitute a quorum. For additional information, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—ZIM Special General Meeting and Board
Recommendation”.
Abstentions and broker non-votes, if any, are counted as present for purposes of determining a quorum.
Voting
On March 16, 2026, there were 120,449,953 ZIM ordinary shares issued and outstanding. Each ZIM ordinary share outstanding as of the close of business on March 31, 2026, the record date, is entitled
to one vote on each of the proposals to be presented at the ZIM special general meeting. If two or more persons are registered as joint holders of any ZIM ordinary share, any one of them, either personally or by proxy, may vote with respect to such
share. If more than one joint holder seeks to vote, only the most senior joint holder may vote, with seniority determined by the order in which the names appear in ZIM’s shareholder register. For this purpose, seniority will be determined by the
order in which the names appear in ZIM’s shareholder register.
ZIM’s shareholders may vote either in person at the ZIM special general meeting or by authorizing another person as their proxy, whether or not such shareholder attends the ZIM special general
meeting. ZIM encourages all shareholders to vote their shares by proxy in advance of the ZIM special general meeting—by Internet, telephone or mail—whether or not they currently plan to attend the ZIM special
general meeting. ZIM’s shareholders may vote in any of the manners below:
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By Internet—If you are a shareholder of record of ZIM, you can submit a proxy over the Internet by logging on to the website listed or scanning the QR code on the
enclosed proxy card, entering your control number located on the enclosed proxy card and submitting a proxy by following the on-screen prompts. If you hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name,” and if the brokerage firm, bank or another
similar nominee that holds your ZIM ordinary shares offers Internet voting, you may follow the instructions shown on the enclosed voting instruction form to submit your proxy over the Internet or simply click on the “VOTE NOW” button if you
received the proxy materials by email;
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By telephone—If you are a shareholder of record of ZIM, you can submit a proxy by telephone by calling the toll-free number listed on the enclosed proxy card, entering
your control number located on the enclosed proxy card and following the prompts. If you hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name,” and if the brokerage firm, bank or other similar organization that holds your ZIM ordinary shares offers
telephone voting, you may follow the instructions shown on the enclosed voting instruction form in order to submit a proxy by telephone; or
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By mail—If you are a shareholder of record of ZIM, you can submit a proxy by completing, dating, signing and returning your proxy card in the postage-paid envelope
provided. You should sign your name exactly as it appears on the enclosed proxy card. If you are signing in a representative capacity (for example, as a guardian, executor, trustee, custodian, attorney or officer of a corporation), please
indicate your name and title or capacity. DO NOT enclose or return your ZIM share certificate(s) with your proxy. If you hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name,” you have the right to direct your
brokerage firm, bank or other similar organization how to vote your ZIM ordinary shares, and the brokerage firm, bank or other similar organization is required to vote your ZIM ordinary shares in accordance with your instructions. To
provide instructions to your brokerage firm, bank or other similar organization by mail, please promptly complete, date, sign and return your voting instruction form in the postage-paid envelope provided by your brokerage firm, bank or
other similar organization.
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Banks, brokers and other nominees who hold ZIM ordinary shares in “street name” for clients typically have authority to vote on “routine” proposals even when they have not received instructions
from beneficial owners, absent specific instructions from the beneficial owner of the shares to the contrary. However, banks, brokers and other nominees are not allowed to exercise their voting discretion with respect to the approval
of non-routine matters, such as the approval of a merger. On each of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal, if a beneficial owner does not provide instructions to his, her or its bank, broker or
other nominee, then his, her or its ZIM ordinary shares will not be voted.
On each of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal, if a beneficial owner does not provide instructions to his, her or its bank, broker or nominee,
then his, her or its ZIM ordinary shares will not be voted. Because the only proposals for consideration at the ZIM special general meeting are non-routine proposals, it is not expected there will be any broker non-votes at the ZIM special general
meeting. However, if there are any broker non-votes, they will have no effect on the outcome of the vote of the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal and they will be counted as present in determining
whether a quorum is present.
Voting Results
The preliminary voting results will be announced at the ZIM special general meeting. The final voting results will be tallied by the ZIM corporate secretary based on the information provided by
Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. or otherwise, and the overall results of the ZIM special general meeting will be published following the ZIM special general meeting in a Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K that will be furnished to
the SEC by ZIM.
Revoking or Changing Your Vote
ZIM shareholders of record may revoke the authority granted by their execution of proxies at any time before the effective exercise thereof by filing with us a written notice of revocation or duly
executed proxy bearing a later date, or by voting in person at the ZIM special general meeting. ZIM shareholders who hold shares in “street name” should follow the directions of, or contact, the bank, broker or nominee if they desire to revoke or
modify previously submitted voting instructions.
The Proxy
Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary, and Tammy Hevrony, Legal Counsellor & Regulation Manager, each individually, will serve as proxies for shareholders of ZIM
under the enclosed form of proxy with respect to the matter to be voted upon at the ZIM special general meeting.
Required Vote for the Approval of Each of the Proposals
As described above, each shareholder of record of ZIM will receive a proxy card in respect of the ZIM ordinary shares held by them. In order to ensure that all of
your ZIM ordinary shares are voted in the ZIM special general meeting, please complete, execute and return the enclosed proxy card.
The Merger Proposal
The approval of the merger proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in
person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes).
At the ZIM special general meeting, the fulfillment of the following condition as part of the merger proposal vote will be required: the majority vote must include a majority of ZIM ordinary shares
voted in favor of the merger proposal that are not held by a Parent affiliate.
In order for your vote to count in respect of the merger proposal, you must affirm in your proxy card or voting instruction form that you are not a Parent affiliate (by
indicating “YES” in Item 1a of the proxy card or voting instruction form). If you do not so affirm, your vote will not count towards the tally for the merger proposal.
The Retention Bonus Proposals and the Compensation Policy Proposal
The approval of each of the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a simple majority of the voting power of ZIM ordinary
shares represented at the ZIM special general meeting in person or by proxy and voting thereon (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes), and must also satisfy the Special Majority requirement.
Under Israeli law, every voting shareholder is required to notify the Company whether such shareholder is an Interested Shareholder in connection with the approval of the
retention bonus proposals or the compensation policy proposal. To avoid confusion, every shareholder voting by means of the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form, or via telephone or internet voting, will be deemed to confirm that such
shareholder is NOT an Interested Shareholder. If you are an Interested Shareholder (in which case your vote will only count for or against the simple majority, and not for or against the Special Majority under the retention bonus proposals or the
compensation policy proposal, as applicable), please notify Noam Nativ, EVP General Counsel and Company Secretary at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel, telephone: +972-4-865-2170, or by email:
nativ.noam@zim.com. If your ZIM ordinary shares are held in “street name” by your broker, bank or other nominee and you are an Interested Shareholder, you should notify your broker, bank or other nominee of that status, and they in turn should
notify the Company as described in the preceding sentence.
Share Ownership
Based on public filings and calculated based on ZIM’s ordinary shares issued and outstanding as of the record date, to ZIM’s knowledge, no person beneficially owns more than 5% of ZIM’s ordinary
shares.
In addition, as of the record date, directors and senior management of ZIM beneficially owned, in the aggregate, less than one percent of the issued and outstanding ZIM ordinary shares. ZIM
currently expects that all of its directors and senior management will vote their shares “FOR” the merger proposal, the retention bonus proposals and the compensation policy proposal. See “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management of ZIM” for more details concerning the beneficial ownership of ZIM ordinary shares by ZIM’s directors and senior management.
Solicitation of Proxies
In addition to solicitation by mail, directors, officers and employees of ZIM may solicit proxies for the ZIM special general meeting from ZIM’s shareholders personally or by telephone, facsimile
and other electronic means without compensation other than reimbursement for their actual expenses. Arrangements also will be made with bankers, brokers and other nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of solicitation material to the
beneficial owners of ZIM ordinary shares held of record by those persons, and ZIM will, if requested, reimburse the record holders for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in so doing.
ZIM has retained Sodali, a proxy solicitation firm, to perform various solicitation services in connection with the ZIM special general meeting. ZIM will pay Sodali a customary fee of approximately
$40,000 in connection with its solicitation services.
Please do not send in any ZIM share certificates with your proxy cards or voting instruction forms.
Contact for Questions and Assistance in Voting
If you have a question about the merger or how to vote or revoke a proxy, please call ZIM’s proxy solicitor:
Sodali & Co.
430 Park Avenue, 14th Floor,
New York, New York 10022
Shareholders Call Toll Free: (800) 662-5200
Brokers and Banks may call collect: (203) 658-9400
Email: ZIM@info.sodali.com
Other Matters
ZIM is not aware of any other business to be acted upon at the ZIM special general meeting. If, however, other matters are properly brought before the ZIM special general meeting or any adjournment
or postponement thereof, the persons named as proxy holders will each have discretion to act on those matters, including to vote in their discretion to adjourn or postpone the special general meeting.
PROPOSALS SUBMITTED TO ZIM SHAREHOLDERS
At the ZIM special general meeting, shareholders will be asked to consider and vote on the following proposals, which are more fully described elsewhere in this proxy statement:
Proposal 1: ZIM Merger Proposal
We are asking you to approve, pursuant to the Companies Law, the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger pursuant to Sections 314 through
327 of the Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge with and into ZIM, with ZIM surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by ZIM’s shareholders in the merger, other than holders of
converted shares and deemed cancelled shares, consisting of the right to receive $35.00 in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior to the effective time of the merger;
and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein.
For a summary of and detailed information regarding this proposal, see the information about the merger proposal, the merger agreement and the merger throughout this proxy statement, including the
information set forth in the sections captioned “The Merger” and “The Merger Agreement” of this proxy statement. A copy of the merger agreement is attached to
this proxy statement as Annex A. You are urged to read the merger agreement carefully in its entirety.
The Proposed Resolution:
It is proposed that the following resolutions be adopted at the ZIM special general meeting:
“RESOLVED, to approve, pursuant to the Companies Law, the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including approval of: (a) the merger
pursuant to Sections 314 through 327 of the Companies Law, whereby Merger Sub will merge with and into ZIM, with ZIM surviving and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent; (b) the consideration to be received by ZIM’s shareholders in the
merger, other than holders of converted shares and deemed cancelled shares, consisting of the right to receive $35.00 per share in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes, per ZIM ordinary share held as of immediately prior
to the effective time; and (c) all other transactions and arrangements contemplated by the merger agreement, a copy of which is attached to this proxy statement as Annex A, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein.”
Vote Required
Please refer to the section of this proxy statement captioned “The Special General Meeting of ZIM Shareholders — Required Vote for the Approval of Each of the Proposals.”
The ZIM Board recommends a vote “FOR” approval of this proposed resolution.
Proposal 2: Retention Bonus Proposals
At the ZIM special general meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve a one-time cash retention bonus to (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors
of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of
the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement. If approved by the shareholders according to the required majority, the compensation payable to the 13 office holders pursuant to Proposal 2a
will not exceed $5.434 million in the aggregate, and the compensation payable to ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President pursuant to Proposal 2b will not exceed $0.924 million.
Under the Companies Law, the compensation of directors and officers must comply with the company’s compensation policy and requires the approval of the company’s compensation committee, the ZIM
board and shareholders, in that order. Pursuant to the Companies Law, a compensation policy must be re-considered and re-approved at least once every three years (except for the initial approval which can be made after a five-year term from a
company’s initial public offering). Our current compensation policy was approved by our shareholders in November 2020, effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering and in October 2023, our shareholders approved an
amendment to the compensation policy. A proposed compensation policy was brought for the approval of our shareholders at our last annual general meeting which took place (following adjournment) on January 2, 2026, and our shareholders did not
approve the proposed policy. Accordingly, our compensation committee and the ZIM board took into consideration the comments made on the proposed policy and propose the adoption of a revised compensation policy as further detailed under the
compensation policy proposal. The compensation committee and the ZIM board have reviewed, discussed and approved the proposed retention bonuses as detailed hereunder, in light of the proposed compensation policy. The compensation committee and the
ZIM board noted that the proposed retention bonuses are in line with the terms and conditions of the proposed compensation policy. Under the Companies Law, in special cases a company may approve employment terms for office holders (including the
chief executive officer) that deviate from the compensation policy, provided that (i) the compensation committee and the ZIM board consider the factors required to be considered under the Companies Law when adopting a compensation policy and (ii)
the terms are approved by the shareholders by the Special Majority.
ZIM’s proposed compensation policy states that ZIM may grant its officers a retention bonus in connection with a going private transaction. Therefore, in connection with approving and recommending
for approval the retention bonuses, the compensation committee and the ZIM board considered certain factors required by the Companies Law, including, among other things: (i) the office holder’s education, skills, expertise, professional experience
and achievements; (ii) the office holder’s position, areas of responsibility, and previous salary agreements entered into with him; and (iii) the ratio between the cost of the office holder’s terms of office and employment and the wage cost of the
company’s other employees and of contract workers employed by the company, and in particular the ratio to the average wage and the median wage of such employees, and the effect of the disparities between them on labor relations in the company. In
addition, the compensation committee and the ZIM board considered the purpose of the bonus being the retention of the Company’s employees and management, in particular, during the interim period until the merger is completed. In light of all of the
above, ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board believe that the retention bonuses proposed to the office holders of ZIM are fair and reasonable and aligned with shareholder interests.
ZIM’s shareholders will be asked to vote on the one time cash retention bonuses to (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM), and (b) the Chief
Executive Officer and President of ZIM, as two separate proposals, and therefore the voting results will be tallied separately. Accordingly, if the proposal to approve the one time cash retention bonuses to the 13 office holders of ZIM is not
approved by the requisite majority and the one time cash retention bonus to the Chief Executive Office and President of ZIM is approved by the requisite majority, or vice-versa, the latter proposal will be deemed to be approved, notwithstanding
the voting results of the former proposal, or vice-versa as applicable.
The Proposed Resolutions:
It is proposed that the following resolutions be adopted at the ZIM special general meeting:
“RESOLVED, to approve a one-time cash retention bonus to 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) of up to 12 monthly base salaries
of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and the ZIM board, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement.”
“RESOLVED, to approve a one-time cash retention bonus to ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office
holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and board of directors, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the closing of the merger and (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement.”
Vote Required
Please refer to the section of this proxy statement captioned “The Special General Meeting of ZIM Shareholders — Required Vote for the Approval of Each of the Proposals.”
The ZIM Board recommends a vote “FOR” approval of this proposed resolution.
Proposal 3: Compensation Policy Proposal
Pursuant to the Companies Law, a compensation policy must be re-considered and re-approved at least once every three years (except for the initial approval which can be made after a five-year
term from a company’s initial public offering in certain cases). Our current compensation policy was approved by our shareholders in November 2020, effective from the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering, and in October 2023, our
shareholders approved an amendment to the compensation policy with respect to the adoption of a claw-back policy compliant with Section 10D of the Exchange Act and the listing standards of the NYSE.
A proposed compensation policy was brought for the approval of our shareholders at our last annual general meeting which took place (following adjournment) on January 2, 2026, and our shareholders
did not approve the proposed policy. Accordingly, our compensation committee and the ZIM board took into consideration the comments made on the proposed policy and propose the adoption of a revised compensation policy in the form attached hereto
as Annex B (which marks the changes from our former compensation policy).
The proposed compensation policy is generally in line with the terms of our former compensation policy, save for the following: (a) the addition of a separate maximum monthly base salary for our
COO in an amount of ILS 180,000 (app. $55,000); (b) the adding of a limitation on equity incentive such that upon each grant of any equity incentive to directors and officers of the Company, the total equity grants held by the Company’s directors
and officers (including the proposed grant) shall not exceed 10% of the Company’s share capital, all calculated on a fully diluted basis; (c) the changing of the cap on increased severance pay to the Company Chief Executive Officer to up to 24
monthly base salaries (it is noted the currently our Chief Executive Officer is entitled to increased severance pay of two times of the applicable severance pay and the proposed change will not derogate from the Chief Executive Officer’s
entitlements under his employment agreement); (d) the allowance of the payment of a retention bonus in connection with a going private transaction, (e) the clarification regarding the applicability of VAT to the chairman’s monthly compensation; (f)
the clarification that the proposed compensation policy does not derogate from any existing compensation arrangements of any of the officers or directors; and (g) clarification that the linkage of the base salary of any officer to the Israeli
consumer price index or to the exchange rate of any currency will not be considered a deviation from the proposed compensation policy.
In the event the proposed compensation policy is not approved by the shareholders by the required majority, the ZIM board may nonetheless approve the compensation policy, provided that our
compensation committee and thereafter the ZIM board have concluded, following further discussion of the matter and for specified reasons, that such approval is in the Company’s best interests.
The considerations which guided the compensation committee and Board of Directors in recommending and approving the proposed compensation policy were: promoting the Company’s interests, its work
plan and policy from a long-term perspective considering, inter alia, the Company’s risk management policy, size and nature of its operations and - with regard to terms of office and employment which
include variable components - the officer’s contribution to achieving the Company’s objectives and to maximizing its earnings, all from the long-term perspective and in accordance with the officer’s role, and with the purpose of aligning the
interests of the Company with those of the officer’s.
When considering the proposed revisions to the compensation policy, the compensation committee and the ZIM board considered numerous factors, including the Company objectives, business plan and
long-term strategy, as well as the experience and qualifications of the Company’s officers.
The proposed compensation policy will be reviewed from time to time by the compensation committee and the ZIM board in order to ensure its adequacy and its fitness to, among others, the Company’s
financial position and results of operation and its retention objectives.
The brief overview above is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the proposed compensation policy, marked against the current compensation policy, as reflected in Appendix
A attached hereto.
The proposed compensation policy includes a clawback policy. The clawback policy was approved by our compensation committee and Board and shall remain in effect regardless of the approval of the
proposed compensation policy.
The Proposed Resolution:
It is proposed that the following resolutions be adopted at the ZIM special general meeting:
“RESOLVED, to approve a new compensation policy for directors and office holders, in the form attached hereto as Annex B, for a period of three
years from the date of the ZIM special general meeting.”
Vote Required
Please refer to the section of this proxy statement captioned “The Special General Meeting of ZIM Shareholders — Required Vote for the Approval of Each of the Proposals.”
The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR approval of this proposed resolution.
This discussion of the merger is qualified in its entirety by reference to the merger agreement, which is attached to this proxy statement as Annex A and incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety. You should read the entire merger agreement carefully as it is the legal document that governs the merger.
Transaction Structure
Pursuant to the merger agreement, and upon the terms and subject to the conditions therein, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Companies Law, Merger Sub (as the target company
(Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. ZIM will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent and will
continue as the surviving company in the merger.
Consideration to ZIM Shareholders
As a result of the merger, ZIM ordinary shares issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time (other than excluded shares) will be converted into the right to receive $35.00 per
share in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes.
Background of the Merger
ZIM completed its initial public offering (“IPO”) and listed its ordinary shares on the NYSE on January 28, 2021 at an opening price of $15.00 per share. Since its IPO, ZIM has demonstrated strong
financial performance and shareholder returns, paying its shareholders approximately $47 per share in aggregate cash dividends and, as of mid-2025, maintaining a cash position in excess of $3 billion. Throughout this time, the ZIM board, together
with management, has regularly considered, evaluated and discussed different strategies for improving ZIM’s competitive position and maximizing shareholder value. As a part of these activities, ZIM, from time to time, has considered various
strategic alternatives in pursuing its business plan, including acquisitions, mergers, collaborations and business combinations (including a sale of ZIM), taking into account various factors such as geopolitical and regulatory developments and the
implications of the Special State Share.
Between March and May 2025, the ZIM board assembled an advisory team, including Evercore Group L.L.C. (“Evercore”) as financial advisor, Meitar Law Offices (“Meitar”) as special Israeli legal
counsel and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (“Skadden” and, together with Meitar, “ZIM Counsel”) as special U.S. legal counsel to assist the ZIM board with an evaluation of potential strategic alternatives. In addition, the ZIM board
consulted with ZIM’s existing Israeli corporate and securities counsel Goldfarb Gross Seligman (“Goldfarb”).
On April 28, 2025, the ZIM board convened with representatives of Meitar and Evercore, in which the ZIM board was provided with a thorough overview of legal and financial considerations relevant to
a potential going-private transaction, including a discussion on the implications of the Special State Share.
On May 14, 2025, the ZIM board convened with Meitar, Skadden and Goldfarb to discuss the proposed terms of its engagement of Evercore as its financial advisor and was provided with a thorough
overview of its duties and best practices from a legal perspective with respect to a potential transaction and its process, including with respect to the potential involvement of management in any transaction process. Following the discussion, the
ZIM board approved the material terms upon which Evercore’s engagement would be formalized and directed its advisors to finalize the engagement with Evercore upon such terms. On May 15, 2025, ZIM entered into an engagement letter with Evercore.
On July 1, 2025, the Chairman of the ZIM board, Yair Seroussi (the “Chairman”), received a call from ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer and President, Eli Glickman, advising of his intent to submit a
non-binding management-led proposal to acquire ZIM. The written proposal was received later that day and circulated to the ZIM board. It proposed that a new company formed by Eli Glickman and Rami Ungar and managed by additional members of ZIM’s
executive team (the “Management Group”) would acquire all outstanding ordinary shares of ZIM for $20.00 per share in cash, representing a 24% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $16.09 on June 30, 2025, financed in part by debt financing
provided by third parties, and requested a 30-day exclusivity period.
On July 2, 2025 and then several times again over the course of July 2025, the ZIM board convened with its advisors to discuss, consider and evaluate the proposal and its implications, including in
respect of process, valuation and fiduciary duties. The ZIM board considered the proposal’s price, timing, request for exclusivity and absence of detailed financing commitments, among other aspects. The ZIM board, with the assistance of
representatives of Evercore, further discussed various alternative paths aimed at maximizing shareholder value, including the potential initiation of a broader market outreach process. In addition, at its meeting on July 7, 2025, the ZIM board,
together with ZIM Counsel, considered the formation of an ad hoc transaction committee to oversee the day-to-day process with respect to a potential transaction, but the ZIM board decided to defer the formation of any such committee to a later date
in order to keep the full ZIM board apprised and involved at the early stages of a potential transaction. On July 23, 2025, representatives of Evercore presented to the ZIM board its preliminary analysis with respect to ZIM and potential strategic
alternatives.
On August 2, 2025, following a determination of the ZIM board resulting from the foregoing discussions, the Chairman informed the Management Group that, following the ZIM board’s careful evaluation
and consideration, the ZIM board concluded that the terms of the Management Group’s proposal undervalued the Company, and that the ZIM board would continue to explore all alternatives for the best interests of ZIM and its shareholders.
Over the course of August and September of 2025, the ZIM board and its advisors discussed and developed a process that would serve also as a deliberate market check to test the management-led
proposal against alternatives.
On August 10, 2025, the Israeli news site “Calcalist” reported that Eli Glickman was partnering with shipping magnate Rami Ungar to buy all of ZIM’s ordinary shares. On
August 12, 2025, ZIM issued a press release acknowledging its awareness of the rumors of a possible acquisition proposal without commenting thereon. ZIM’s closing share price on August 8, 2025, the last full day of trading prior to the
publication, was $15.50 per share, and ZIM’s closing share price on August 12, 2025 was $17.34 per share. On August 14, 2025, at a meeting of the ZIM board, the ZIM board instructed representatives of Evercore to proceed with outreach to
potential acquirors to gauge their interest as to a strategic transaction with ZIM and return with market feedback, while continuing to evaluate legal and financial aspects of potential transaction structures.
Representatives of Evercore conducted a rigorous process based on its comprehensive network and research and, after discussing with the ZIM board, reached out to Parent and several other strategic
and financial parties. In total, 13 parties engaged in preliminary discussions regarding a potential transaction, four of which (including Parent) entered into confidentiality agreements, which included customary standstill provisions, following
their indication of interest to conduct due diligence. Each of these four potential counterparties were accordingly provided with diligence materials. Because of the ongoing interest from the Management Group regarding a potential transaction,
members of the Management Group were initially recused from discussions regarding a transaction with such bidders, including in connection with such bidders’ due diligence in respect of a transaction, which was managed at this stage by the ZIM
board with the assistance of its advisors and ZIM personnel who were not part of the Management Group.
On August 26, 2025, the ZIM board convened for an update from representatives of Evercore on the process and a briefing from Meitar regarding the Special State Share and regulatory implications as
related to deal certainty with respect to potential counterparties involved in the process.
On September 30, 2025, Parent submitted its initial proposal to the ZIM board contemplating the purchase of all outstanding ordinary shares of ZIM at $32.00 per share in cash, representing a 135%
premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $13.61 on September 29, 2025, the last full trading day preceding such offer.
On October 23, 2025, the ZIM board reviewed and discussed with its advisors materials to be used for the process, including for the Management Group and Parent, and discussed the sequencing of data
room access and the preparation of a process letter to guide prospective bidders.
On October 30, 2025, the ZIM board formalized the bid process and data‑room procedures and on October 31, 2025, opened the virtual data room to Parent. Parent conducted a
due diligence process on ZIM, including legal due diligence by Parent’s counsels Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, Herzog Fox & Neeman, Hengeler Mueller and MFB Solicitors (collectively, “Parent Counsel”), in accordance with predefined
clean-team procedures and restrictions consistent with applicable competition law.
At ZIM board meetings on October 23 and 30, 2025, the ZIM board revisited the possibility of establishing an ad hoc special transaction committee in light of the acceleration of the process.
In early November 2025, following the advancement of discussions with the Management Group and Parent coordinated through representatives of Evercore, the ZIM board convened to review and discuss
with its advisors certain updates on legal, regulatory and labor matters and to approve sending “Phase II” process letters to each of the Management Group and Parent, setting a deadline of December 18, 2025 for their submissions of final bids.
On November 12, 2025, the ZIM board formally established an ad hoc transaction committee comprised of the Chairman as its chairman and ZIM board members Nir Epstein and Yair Caspi (the “Transaction
Committee”). The ZIM board directed the Transaction Committee to oversee the process and negotiations aimed at identifying the strategic alternative that would maximize shareholder value and delegated related authority to the Transaction Committee,
with the understanding that the Transaction Committee would report to the full ZIM board regularly with updates and to confer with the full ZIM board with respect to material decisions.
Also on November 12, 2025, the ZIM board received a detailed process update from its advisors covering due diligence activities of the bidders and discussions with the bidders relating to
transaction terms, including transaction bonuses, treatment of options and interim covenants.
On November 19, 2025, two ZIM board members, Yoav Sebba and Yair Caspi (who was a member of the Transaction Committee), resigned from their positions on the ZIM board and any committees thereof,
and Yair Avidan and Dr. Yoram Turbowicz were appointed to be directors on the ZIM board. Dr. Yoram Turbowicz, who has extensive experience and knowledge in M&A transactions and related matters, was also appointed to the Transaction Committee.
The two new ZIM board members were given thorough updates by the Chairman and the ZIM board’s advisors on the events to date with respect to a potential transaction.
Throughout November 2025, the ZIM board monitored shareholder activism and market communications while advancing the process.
On November 19, 2025 and November 26, 2025, the ZIM board met and received pertinent updates, including investor relations, shareholder nominations, additional diligence activity and process
integrity, including as to subsequent reactions resulting from a ZIM public press release on November 25, 2025 concerning the status of the process to address market speculation.
In early December 2025, drafts of the merger agreement were shared by ZIM in the virtual data room in advance of final proposal submissions by the potential bidders. Bidders were requested to
submit initial markups of the draft merger agreement to ZIM for review prior to the final submission.
Also in early December 2025, senior-level engagement by Parent continued and discussions continued with additional bidders. On December 9, 2025, the ZIM board conferred with the Transaction
Committee, who scheduled a meeting with the CEO and CFO of Parent at Evercore’s offices. In addition, another potential strategic counterparty (“Bidder A”) had been granted access to the data room following an increase in interest by Bidder A and
its execution of a confidentiality agreement, in accordance with predefined clean-team procedures and restrictions consistent with applicable competition law.
On December 10, 2025, the Transaction Committee met with Parent’s CEO and CFO at Evercore’s offices in Tel-Aviv, with representatives of Evercore in attendance, where it assessed the seriousness of
Parent’s bid and discussed Parent’s approach to the Special State Share and employee and labor matters.
On December 13, 2025, Parent Counsel provided ZIM Counsel with a markup of the merger agreement.
On December 15, 2025, representatives of Evercore delivered a customary relationship disclosure letter to the ZIM board.
In connection with a concurrent proxy contest by a shareholder group led by Mor Gemel Pension Ltd., Reading Capital Ltd. and Sparta 24 Ltd. (the “Shareholder Group”) regarding the composition of
the ZIM board, on December 16, 2025, ZIM announced that it reached an agreement with the Shareholder Group that would appoint two new directors on the ZIM board and an observer to the ZIM board. The two new ZIM board members, Ron Hadassi and Ran
Gritzerstein, and the observer were given thorough updates by the Chairman and the ZIM board’s advisors on the events to date with respect to a potential transaction.
Also on December 16, 2025, the ZIM board convened to review and discuss with its advisors status updates on the bid process, including a presentation of key issues in the draft merger agreement
submitted by Parent. Following the meeting, ZIM Counsel conveyed to Parent Counsel the primary issues where the terms of the draft merger agreement should be improved. In particular, ZIM Counsel conveyed the ZIM board’s concerns regarding (i) the
Special State Share approval provisions, (ii) employee and labor matters, (iii) ZIM’s ability to pay its ordinary course dividend during the interim period and (iv) termination fees.
On that same day, Bidder A shared an initial proposal with ZIM’s advisors contemplating the purchase of all outstanding ordinary shares of ZIM at $29.10 per share in cash (although it was unclear
whether this per share price would be adjusted downward on a fully diluted basis), representing a 43% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $20.40 on December 15, 2025, the last full trading day preceding such offer.
On December 18, 2025, the Management Group submitted its final proposal contemplating the purchase of all outstanding ordinary shares of ZIM at $21.50 per share in cash, representing a $1.50 per
share increase compared to its initial proposal on July 1, 2025 and representing a 10% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $19.56 on December 17, 2025, the last full trading day preceding such offer.
On December 19, 2025, Parent submitted its final proposal contemplating the purchase of all outstanding ordinary shares of ZIM at $35.00 per share in cash, representing a $3.00 per share increase
compared to its proposal on September 30, 2025 and a 82% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $19.25 on December 18, 2025, the last full trading day preceding such offer. It also included a revised markup of the merger agreement, improving upon
its initial markup with respect to certain key terms. In particular, Parent accepted that ZIM would be permitted to pay ordinary course dividends during the interim period in line with ZIM’s existing dividend policy.
On December 22, 2025, the ZIM board convened to discuss with its advisors Parent’s initial proposal with respect to a structure to obtain the release of the Special State Share, which contemplated
securing an Israeli partner (the “initial Israeli partner”) which would buy from, and lease back to, Parent or ZIM approximately 11 to 16 vessels that would be owned by a wholly-owned Israeli subsidiary of the initial Israeli partner, which would
assume the obligations of the Special State Share.
Also on December 22, 2025, after discussions with the Management Group regarding the issues with its proposal’s valuation, especially as compared to the proposals from Parent and Bidder A, and
after discussions among the ZIM board and with its advisors, ZIM announced that the ZIM board concluded that the Management Group’s proposal significantly undervalued ZIM and was declined. The ZIM board believed that declining the Management
Group’s proposal such that both the ZIM board and management could focus their efforts in respect of a potential transaction on Parent’s and Bidder A’s bids, which valued ZIM at a much higher valuation, would be in the best interests of ZIM’s
shareholders because it was more likely to maximize shareholder value. As a result, members of the Management Group were also thereafter included in certain discussions with Parent and Bidder A, specifically in connection with their due diligence
in respect of the transaction, given the importance of such discussions to the completion of Parent’s and Bidder A’s due diligence process at this stage.
On December 30, 2025, the ZIM board convened to review the status of the process. It was discussed that, in light of the advanced stage of negotiations, the ZIM board would seek an additional
fairness opinion from Barclays Bank PLC.
In early January 2026, Bidder A increased its due diligence efforts on ZIM, in accordance with predefined clean-team procedures and restrictions consistent with applicable competition law.
ZIM Counsel delivered a markup of the draft merger agreement to Parent Counsel on January 2, 2026, after which the ZIM board and its advisors closely negotiated with Parent and its advisors,
focusing on several material open issues, including: the Special State Share approval framework; interim operating covenants; employee and labor matters; regulatory approvals and undertakings for the obtaining thereof; termination rights; closing
conditions; and triggers and amounts of reverse and forward termination fees. A key issue remained unresolved as to whether Parent would be required to retain any obligations with respect to the Special State Share or if closing would be contingent
on the release of the Special State Share from Parent and its affiliates (including ZIM and its subsidiaries after the closing) as part of the approval under the Special State Share. Parent Counsel and ZIM Counsel exchanged numerous markups of the
merger agreement over the ensuing two months, with several meetings taking place to discuss the key transaction points.
On January 6, 2026, Parent’s CEO and CFO, together with its internal and external legal counsel, met with the Chairman and representatives from Meitar at Meitar’s offices in Israel, and further
discussed their proposal with respect to the Special State Share, including the potential identity of the initial Israeli partner. Parent informed ZIM that Parent and such initial Israeli partner had executed a non-binding letter of intent to
further their discussions of the framework in which the initial Israeli partner would assume the minimum fleet and other requirements under the Special State Share.
On January 12, 2026, Bidder A submitted a confirmatory non-binding offer reflecting a price per share of $31.10 in cash (although it was unclear whether this per share price would be adjusted
downward on a fully diluted basis), representing a $2.00 per share increase compared to its proposal on December 16, 2025 and a 39% premium to ZIM’s closing share price of $22.40 on January 9, 2026, the last full trading day preceding such offer.
On January 14, 2026, the ZIM board convened to receive an update from its advisors on the strategic process and review the latest markup of the merger agreement by Parent. In addition, ZIM Counsel
provided the ZIM board with an overview of the directors’ fiduciary duties under Israeli law. The ZIM board also discussed the status of Parent’s proposed structure with the initial Israeli partner to obtain approval under the Special State Share,
as well as continued negotiations with Bidder A and other alternatives and matters, including a potential secondary listing on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. On January 14, 2026, ZIM also entered into an engagement letter with Barclays.
On January 15, 2026, representatives of Barclays delivered a customary relationship disclosure letter to the ZIM board.
On January 18, 2026, as discussions with Parent and the initial Israeli partner continued, the ZIM board convened and instructed ZIM Counsel to focus on issues related to deal certainty and
regulatory risk allocation in order to maximize shareholder value.
On January 19, 2026, ZIM Counsel shared with Parent Counsel a further revised draft of the merger agreement, including open points with regard to: employee and labor matters; regulatory approvals
and undertakings for the obtaining thereof; termination rights; and triggers and amounts of reverse and forward termination fees, along with a detailed issues list identifying the principal open points relating to the Special State Share approval
framework.
Also on January 19, 2026, Bidder A submitted to the ZIM board a letter reaffirming its continued interest in a transaction with ZIM on the terms described in its previous proposal.
On January 20, 2026, representatives of Meitar, Skadden and Evercore met with Parent and its legal and financial advisors in Hamburg, Germany at Parent’s headquarters for a full day of negotiations
on the merger agreement, primarily relating to the Special State Share approval framework.
On January 23, 2026, the ZIM board convened for further updates and to review the remaining open issues with its advisors. Parent informed ZIM that it was continuing to negotiate with the initial
Israeli partner a binding framework agreement regarding the Special State Share assumption. During conference calls held on January 27, 2026 between Parent and Evercore and on January 29, 2026 between Parent and Meitar, Parent informed the ZIM
advisors that its agreement with the initial Israeli partner would end within 10 years of its commencement, without providing a long-term structure for the Special State Share thereafter.
On January 27, 2026, the ZIM board convened to discuss this and other issues and strategic alternatives, including the previously discussed potential listing on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, which
it decided not to pursue based on its determination that it would not be in the best interests of the shareholders.
On January 28, 2026, the ZIM board convened with representatives of Evercore in attendance (which representatives of Barclays did not attend). The representatives of Evercore delivered an updated
preliminary financial analyses regarding ZIM, Parent and a potential strategic combination. This informed the ZIM board’s continuing oversight over negotiations seeking to optimally balance value maximization against execution certainty. Following
further consultation with its advisors, the ZIM board also informed ZIM Counsel that the 10-year limitation on the Special State Share framework would not be acceptable given it would pose a significant risk on deal certainty and requested that the
advisors keep pursuing the offer from Bidder A.
On January 30, 2026, Parent shared with ZIM a draft of the proposed definitive agreement with the initial Israeli partner, which included the 10-year term and no proposed structure for the Special
State Share thereafter. The draft also failed to provide for a high level of commitments by the initial Israeli partner to agree to modifications in order to obtain approval for the proposed structure of the Special State Share. Shortly thereafter,
representatives of ZIM informed Parent that the ZIM board would not approve ZIM entering into a binding transaction agreement with Parent on the basis of the proposed Special State Share structure with the initial Israeli partner at such time.
During January and early February 2026, ZIM’s advisors advanced the review process with Bidder A and its advisors, with an emphasis on Bidder A’s proposed
structure for the Special State Share and the Israeli security and regulatory matters. On January 30, 2026, Bidder A's counsel submitted to ZIM Counsel an initial markup of the merger agreement. The markup did not provide a clear framework for
obtaining approval under the Special State Share.
On February 4, 2026, Parent’s representatives and counsel met with the Chairman and representatives of Meitar and Evercore at Meitar’s offices in Israel and presented an alternative structure for
releasing and obtaining approval under the Special State Share, which contemplated FIMI Opportunities 7, L.P. and FIMI Israel Opportunities 7, L.P. (collectively, “FIMI”) to serve as the Israeli partner in lieu of the previously identified
initial Israeli partner. Parent informed ZIM that the framework with FIMI would not be subject to a 10-year term (or any other time limitation) and would be aimed at permanently preserving the Special State Share rights. The framework
contemplated FIMI owning a new Israeli shipping company that would own at least 12 vessels and certain ZIM routes, with a commercial agreement with Parent, and the new FIMI entity would assume the obligations under the Special State Share.
Pursuant to the new structure, FIMI would establish “New ZIM” as an Israeli liner‑service provider with a modern fleet calibrated to the Special State Share requirements and supported by a long‑term strategic commercial partnership with Parent.
After the meeting, Parent shared with ZIM and its advisors a term sheet and presentation detailing the new proposed structure.
Also on February 4, 2026, the ZIM board convened with its advisors to discuss the merits of the proposed structure with FIMI, which the ZIM board determined to be favorable with respect to deal
certainty. Given this development, along with the higher valuation of Parent's proposal as compared to that of Bidder A and the lack of a clear framework from Bidder A for approval under the Special State Share, the ZIM board directed ZIM Counsel
to focus on finalizing the terms for a transaction with Parent in order to maximize shareholder value.
During the first two weeks of February 2026, ZIM and Parent exchanged markups of the merger agreement and disclosure schedules thereto frequently in order to resolve all outstanding issues
primarily relating to: the Special State Share approval framework (including incorporating into the draft the new arrangement with FIMI); employee and labor matters; termination rights; and reverse and forward termination fees.
On February 9, 2026, Parent’s CFO and General Counsel met with the Chairman and Meitar at Meitar’s offices in Israel and reported on the advancement of their negotiations with FIMI. Additional
calls and meetings were held on February 10 and 11, 2026, and on February 11, 2026 Parent shared with ZIM and its advisors an advanced draft of its binding memorandum of understanding with FIMI (redacted solely as to pricing terms and other
competitively-sensitive information) setting out the framework for the agreement in respect of the Special State Share between Parent and FIMI.
On February 10, 2026, ZIM Counsel shared with Parent Counsel a further revised draft of the merger agreement, identifying the principal open points, primarily relating to the Special State Share
approval framework and employee and labor matters. The draft merger agreement provided that Parent and, pursuant to the binding memorandum of understanding, FIMI would each use its reasonable best efforts to obtain the Special State Share Approval
and complete the Special State Share Assumption, in each case subject to certain terms and conditions. ZIM Counsel also provided feedback for improving the memorandum of understanding with FIMI.
On February 11, 2026, the ZIM board convened to review the draft binding memorandum of understanding between Parent and FIMI and Parent’s presentation regarding its agreement with FIMI and FIMI’s
business plan and to discuss the remaining open issues in the draft merger agreement.
On February 11 and 12, 2026, the Chairman held meetings with Parent’s CEO and CFO to discuss matters relating to treatment of the ZIM employees following consummation of the contemplated merger. At
the Chairman’s request, Parent agreed to increase the proposed length of its undertaking with respect to the continued employment of the ZIM employees following the closing and of employee benefits post-closing, which resolved the last key issue
between the parties in connection with the merger agreement.
On February 12, 2026, representatives of Evercore delivered an updated customary relationship disclosure letter to the ZIM board. Representatives of Barclays also delivered an updated customary
relationship disclosure letter to the ZIM board.
The final rounds of the merger agreement and disclosure schedules thereto were exchanged between February 13, 2026 and February 15, 2026, primarily aimed at agreeing on final language addressing
the Special State Share Approval.
On February 15, 2026, the ZIM board convened with representatives of Evercore and Barclays to consider the final terms of the proposed merger with Parent, the merger agreement and related
transactions, including matters pertaining to the Special State Share and the associated binding memorandum of understanding between Parent and FIMI. Representatives of Evercore presented their financial analysis and rendered to the ZIM board
Evercore’s oral opinion, and subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026, that, as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions described
in Evercore’s written opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders other than the holders of excluded shares. Representatives of Barclays
rendered to the ZIM board an oral opinion, which was subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026, that, as of such date, based upon and subject to the various assumptions, limitations, qualifications and
conditions set forth in Barclays’ written opinion, the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares). After carefully
reviewing the transaction documentation and receiving advice of ZIM Counsel regarding directors’ duties and the applicable requirements under the Israeli Companies Law, the ZIM board, as of such date, (i) determined that the terms of the merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the merger, are fair to, and in the best interests of, ZIM and its shareholders and that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that
ZIM following the merger will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors, (ii) determined that it is in the best interests of ZIM and its shareholders, and declared it advisable, to enter into the merger agreement, (iii) approved
the execution and delivery by ZIM of the merger agreement, the performance by ZIM of its covenants and agreements contained therein and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms and subject to the conditions contained
therein and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve and adopt the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the merger. The ZIM board directed calling a special general meeting of shareholders to
approve the merger agreement in accordance with its recommendation to the ZIM shareholders and the preparation and filing of the proxy statement (which would include the ZIM board’s recommendation to the shareholders) and related NYSE and SEC
submissions.
On February 16, 2026, the parties executed the merger agreement under which Norazia (Israel) Ltd., a newly formed, wholly-owned Israeli subsidiary of Parent, would merge with and into ZIM, with ZIM
surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Parent, in accordance with Sections 314–327 of the Israeli Companies Law, entitling each holder of ZIM ordinary shares issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger (other
than any excluded shares) with the right to receive $35.00 in cash per share, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes. Following execution, the parties coordinated public communications, including press releases and stock
exchange notifications.
Recommendation of the ZIM Board and Reasons for the Merger
The ZIM board has unanimously (i) determined that the terms of the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger, are fair to and in the best interests of ZIM and its shareholders and
declared it advisable to enter into the merger agreement, (ii) determined that, considering the financial position of the merging companies, no reasonable concern exists that the surviving company will be unable to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to
its creditors, (iii) approved the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, the performance by ZIM of its covenants and agreements contained in the merger agreement and the consummation of the merger and the other transactions upon the terms
and subject to the conditions set forth in the merger agreement, and (iv) resolved to recommend that the ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the transactions, including the merger.
The ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the merger proposal. In evaluating the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions,
the ZIM board consulted with representatives of ZIM and ZIM’s advisors, and, in the course of reaching its determination to approve the terms of the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions and to recommend, upon the terms and
subject to the conditions set forth in the merger agreement, that ZIM shareholders vote in favor of the approval of the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions, the ZIM board carefully considered a wide and complex range of
factors, including, among other things, the following list of material factors and benefits of the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions, each of which the ZIM board believed supported its determination and recommendation:
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Premium to Then-Current Equity Price. The per share merger consideration to be paid by Parent of $35.00 in cash, which represents a 126% premium to ZIM’s closing share
price of $15.50 (which we consider to be the unaffected share price) on August 8, 2025 (the last trading day before market speculation regarding a proposed transaction as a result of third party reporting), a 58% premium to ZIM’s closing
share price of $22.20 on February 13, 2026 (the last trading day before the execution of the merger agreement) and a 90% premium to the volume weighted average ZIM share price of $18.45 over the 90 trading days preceding the execution of
the merger agreement.
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Form of Consideration. The fact that the merger consideration is all cash, which provides ZIM’s shareholders with significant, immediate and certain value and liquidity
for their ZIM ordinary shares, while avoiding long-term business and execution risk, including the risks and uncertainties relating to ZIM’s prospects and the risks of an economic downturn that could adversely affect ZIM, as well as risks
related to the financial markets generally.
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Negotiations with Parent. The ZIM board considered the course of negotiations between ZIM and Parent, and the ZIM board’s belief that, based on those negotiations and
Parent’s indication that its offer was best and final, the merger consideration represents the best proposal and economic value available to ZIM shareholders and that the merger agreement contained the most favorable terms to ZIM in the
aggregate to which Parent was willing to agree.
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Financial Advisors’ Opinions:
o The oral opinion of Evercore rendered to the ZIM board, which was subsequently confirmed in Evercore’s written opinion dated February 16, 2026, that as of the date
of such opinion and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions described in Evercore’s written opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the merger was
fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders other than the holders of excluded shares, as more fully described below in the section entitled “The Merger—Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.”
beginning on page 62 and the full text of the written opinion of Evercore attached as Annex C-1 to this proxy statement; and
o The financial analysis and oral opinion, dated as of February 15, 2026 (which was subsequently confirmed in a written opinion dated February 16, 2026), of Barclays
to the ZIM board that, as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to the qualifications, limitations, assumptions and other matters stated therein, the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed merger was fair, from a
financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares), as more fully described in the section entitled “The Merger—Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors Barclays Bank PLC” beginning on page
68 of this proxy statement and the full text of the written opinion of Barclays attached as Annex C-2 to this proxy statement.
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Surviving Company. Considering the financial position of ZIM and Merger Sub, no reasonable concern exists that, as a result of the merger, the surviving company would
not be able to fulfill the obligations of ZIM to its creditors.
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Potential Strategic Alternatives. The ZIM board considered possible alternatives to the merger reasonably available to ZIM, including continuing to operate as a
standalone company, and the potential benefits and risks to ZIM shareholders of these alternatives, as well as the ZIM board’s assessment that none of these alternatives was reasonably likely to create greater value for ZIM shareholders
within a reasonable period of time, taking into account risks of execution as well as market, industry, business and competitive risks. As previously announced, the ZIM board also considered proposals from an entity owned by Eli Glickman,
the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and President, and Rami Ungar, which, after careful consideration, the ZIM board concluded significantly undervalued the Company and informed the management-led entity that its proposals were declined.
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Risks Relating to Remaining a Standalone Company. The ZIM board considered ZIM’s prospects and risks if ZIM were to remain an independent company. The ZIM board
considered ZIM’s then-current business and financial plans, including the risks and uncertainties associated with achieving and executing on ZIM’s business and financial plans in the short-term and long-term, as well as the general risks of
market conditions that could reduce the trading price of ZIM ordinary shares.
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Other Potential Acquirors. The ZIM board, with the assistance of Evercore, considered other parties that would be most likely to have an interest in acquiring ZIM,
taking into consideration various financial and strategic factors, including the likelihood and ability to consummate a transaction at a price that would exceed the value of the merger consideration offered by Parent. The ZIM board also
considered:
o ZIM’s rigorous process, together with Evercore, for soliciting and responding to offers from potential counterparties that were believed to be the most willing
and able to pay the highest price for ZIM’s stock, including the fact that approximately 13 parties were contacted or solicited during ZIM’s process for exploring a potential strategic transaction between August 2025 and December 2025,
in an effort to obtain the best value reasonably available to shareholders, four of which (including Parent) entered into confidentiality agreements with the Company and were provided with an opportunity to conduct due diligence; and
o the fact that two parties, other than Parent, submitted indications of interest, which, after careful consideration, the ZIM board concluded to be inferior to
Parent’s, including the previously announced proposals from an entity owned by Eli Glickman, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and President, and Rami Ungar.
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Loss of Opportunity. The ZIM board considered the possibility that, if it declined to enter into the merger agreement, there may not be another
opportunity for the ZIM shareholders to enter into a comparably priced transaction and that the short-term market price for the shares of ZIM ordinary shares could fall below the current trading price, and possibly substantially below the
value of the merger consideration.
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Ability to Respond to Unsolicited Acquisition Proposals, Change Recommendation and Terminate the Merger Agreement. The ZIM board considered that the
merger agreement contains provisions that, subject to its terms and conditions, permit ZIM to respond to certain unsolicited acquisition proposals and adequately preserve the ZIM board’s ability to act in the best interests of ZIM’s
shareholders. Under these provisions, if ZIM receives a bona fide acquisition proposal from a third party prior to the ZIM shareholders meeting, then, subject to specified conditions and limitations in the merger agreement, ZIM may provide
non-public information to, and participate in discussions or negotiations with, the third party if the ZIM board determines in good faith (after consultation with its outside legal counsel and financial advisors) that the proposal
constitutes or would reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal and that failing to take such actions would reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law. In addition, prior to
the ZIM shareholders meeting, and subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement (including advance notice to Parent and an opportunity for Parent to propose revisions to the merger agreement), the ZIM board may change its
recommendation that ZIM shareholders approve the merger agreement and the merger in response to a superior proposal or certain intervening events, if the ZIM board determines in good faith (after consultation with its outside legal counsel
and financial advisors) that failing to take such action would reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law. ZIM may also terminate the merger agreement prior to obtaining shareholder
approval in order to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to a superior proposal, provided that ZIM pays Parent a termination fee of $150,000,000 as required by the merger agreement. The ZIM board also considered that the
termination fee payable by ZIM under specified circumstances is reasonable in light of the overall terms of the merger agreement and the benefits of the merger and would not be expected to preclude another party from making a competing
proposal.
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Terms of the Merger Agreement. The ZIM board considered all of the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, including the structure of the merger and the
transactions, the limited scope of the conditions to closing, ZIM’s right to specific performance to cause Parent to consummate the merger under certain circumstances, and other remedies available under the merger agreement, subject to
certain conditions, and the customary nature of the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements of the parties. The ZIM board further considered the course and nature of negotiations with Parent, which were conducted at arm’s
length and during which the ZIM board was advised by highly qualified legal and financial advisors. These negotiations ultimately resulted in terms that (a) provide for a significant premium over the trading price of ZIM ordinary shares;
(b) provide robust provisions designed to ensure, absent certain circumstances that would cause a closing condition not to be satisfied or allow termination of the merger agreement, that the merger and the transactions are completed; and
(c) provide for a termination fee payable by Parent to ZIM if the transaction is terminated for failure to obtain regulatory approvals (other than the Special State Share Approval and other approvals under Israeli regulatory laws).
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Regulatory Approvals. The ZIM board considered the relative likelihood of significant antitrust, foreign investment, and other regulatory impediments to closing and the
provisions of the merger agreement relating to regulatory approvals. Under the merger agreement, Parent, Merger Sub and ZIM have agreed to use their respective reasonable best efforts, and to cause their respective subsidiaries to use their
respective reasonable best efforts, to promptly take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable law to consummate the transactions, including the merger, as
soon as practicable after signing, including preparing and making required filings and using reasonable best efforts to obtain required approvals, clearances, waivers and waiting period expirations or terminations, subject in each case to
the terms, limitations and coordination provisions set forth in the merger agreement. The ZIM board also considered that consummation of the merger is conditioned on obtaining specified regulatory approvals, including (i) the approvals,
clearances and waiting period expirations or terminations required under applicable regulatory laws and identified in the merger agreement as “Other Required Regulatory Approvals” and (ii) the approval required from the State of Israel
pursuant to ZIM’s Special State Share. In addition, the merger agreement generally provides that Parent will control the overall regulatory strategy and coordinate filings and submissions to governmental entities, while consulting with ZIM
and considering ZIM’s views in good faith, and that Parent has agreed to take, or cause to be taken, actions that may be required by governmental entities to obtain antitrust and other regulatory approvals, subject to specified limitations,
including that Parent is not required to agree to remedies or conditions that would be materially burdensome as provided in the merger agreement. Finally, the ZIM board considered the provisions of the merger agreement that specifically
address the Special State Share, including Parent’s obligation to use reasonable best efforts (subject to specified limitations) to obtain approval of the transactions from the State of Israel and an irrevocable and perpetual release of ZIM
and its affiliates from the rights and obligations associated with the Special State Share, which release may be achieved through a transaction in which an Israeli partner assumes the Special State Share obligations effective as of the
closing.
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Likelihood of Completion. The ZIM board considered the likelihood that the merger will be consummated, based on, among other things, the limited number of conditions to
the merger, the absence of a financing condition, the relative likelihood of obtaining required regulatory approvals, the remedies available under the merger agreement to ZIM in the event of various breaches by Parent, and Parent’s
reputation in its industry, its financial capacity to complete an acquisition of this size and its prior track record of successfully completing acquisitions, which collectively supported the conclusion that a transaction with Parent could
be completed on a reasonable timetable for such a transaction and in an orderly manner.
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Shareholder Approval. The ZIM board considered that the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions would be subject to the approval of the ZIM shareholders,
and that ZIM shareholders would be free to vote against the approval of the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions.
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The ZIM board also considered various uncertainties, risks and other potentially negative factors relating to the merger agreement, the merger and the other transactions, including, among other
things, the following:
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Risk Associated with Failure to Consummate the Merger. While the ZIM board expects that the merger will be consummated, there can be no assurance that all of the
conditions to the consummation of the merger will be satisfied, including that the merger will receive the approximately forty required regulatory clearances, or that the merger will be consummated in a timely manner or at all, even if the
ZIM shareholders approve the merger proposal. The ZIM board considered potential negative effects if the merger is not consummated, including:
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ZIM’s directors, officers and employees will have expended extensive time and effort to negotiate, implement and consummate the merger, and their time may have been diverted from other important business
opportunities and operational matters while working to implement the merger;
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ZIM will have incurred significant transaction and opportunity costs during the pendency of the merger and other transactions, without compensation, except potentially for the termination fee payable by Parent
if the transaction is terminated under certain circumstances;
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ZIM’s continuing business relationships with customers, suppliers, and other business partners and employees, including key personnel, may be adversely affected;
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the trading price of ZIM ordinary shares could be adversely affected;
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the market’s perceptions of ZIM and ZIM’s prospects could be adversely affected; and
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ZIM’s business may be subject to significant disruption and decline.
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Transaction Costs. The ZIM board considered the fact that ZIM has incurred and will continue to incur significant transaction costs and expenses in connection with the
merger, regardless of whether the merger is consummated.
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Inability to Solicit Competing Proposals and Termination Fee. The merger agreement includes a covenant prohibiting ZIM from, and requiring ZIM to cause its subsidiaries
and its and their representatives not to, directly or indirectly solicit, initiate, knowingly encourage or knowingly facilitate any inquiry, proposal, discussion, offer or request that constitutes, or would reasonably be expected to lead
to, an acquisition proposal, subject to specified exceptions that permit ZIM, under certain circumstances and prior to the ZIM shareholders meeting, to respond to an unsolicited bona fide acquisition proposal, including by providing
information to and engaging in discussions or negotiations with the third party and, subject to further conditions, changing the ZIM board’s recommendation and, in the case of a superior proposal, terminating the merger agreement to enter
into a definitive agreement providing for such superior proposal. ZIM may be required to pay Parent a termination fee of $150,000,000 in cash if the merger agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, including if ZIM terminates the
merger agreement prior to obtaining ZIM shareholder approval in order to enter into a definitive agreement providing for a superior proposal, if Parent terminates the merger agreement following a change of recommendation by the ZIM board
prior to obtaining ZIM shareholder approval, or in certain other circumstances involving an acquisition proposal. The ZIM board also considered that the merger agreement affords Parent certain matching and negotiation rights in connection
with a superior proposal, including advance notice and an opportunity for Parent to propose revisions to the merger agreement, which may discourage other parties that might otherwise have an interest in a business combination with, or
acquisition of, ZIM. The ZIM board considered the potential that the termination fee and these related provisions could deter competing offers, but did not believe they would be preclusive, and recognized that these provisions were required
by Parent as a condition to entering into the merger agreement.
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Effect of Public Announcement. The effect of the public announcement of the merger agreement, including effects on ZIM’s operations, ZIM’s commercial relationships, the
trading price of ZIM ordinary shares, and ZIM’s ability to attract and retain management and other key employees during the pendency of the merger and the other transactions, as well as the potential for litigation in connection with the
merger and other potential adverse effects on the financial results of ZIM as a result of any related disruption in ZIM’s business during the pendency of the merger and the other transactions, which are anticipated to be completed during in
the fourth quarter of 2026.
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Timing and Regulatory Risks. The ZIM board considered the amount of time it could take to complete the merger, including the possibility that the merger may not be
completed or that completion may be unduly delayed for reasons beyond the control of ZIM or Parent, and including the risk that Parent might not receive the approximately forty necessary regulatory clearances to complete the merger, that
the Special State Share Approval may not be obtained or that governmental authorities could attempt to condition their approvals or clearances of the merger on one or more of the parties’ compliance with certain terms or conditions which
may cause one or more of the merger conditions not to be satisfied.
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Opportunity Costs and Interim Operating Covenants. The ZIM board considered restrictions on the conduct of ZIM’s business during the interim period between signing and
closing, due to the pre-closing covenants in the merger agreement whereby ZIM agreed, among other things, to use reasonable best efforts to conduct its business, in all material respects, in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice and to refrain from taking a number of actions related to the conduct of its business without the prior written consent of ZIM (in each case, subject to specified exceptions), which may have an adverse effect on ZIM, including
a potential loss of customers or business, or reduction in business with existing customers, and ZIM’s ability to respond to changing market and business conditions in a timely manner or at all.
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Interests of Directors and Executive Officers. The ZIM board considered the interests that ZIM’s directors and executive officers may have in the merger and the other
transactions as individuals that are in addition to, or that may be different from, the interests of the other ZIM shareholders, as described in more detail under the caption “The Merger—Interests of ZIM
Directors and Senior Management in the Merger”.
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Taxable Nature of the Transactions. The ZIM board considered the fact that the merger will generally be a taxable transaction to the shareholders of ZIM for U.S. federal
income tax purposes and Israeli tax purposes.
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No Appraisal Rights. The ZIM board considered the fact that appraisal rights are not available to holders of shares of ZIM ordinary shares in connection with the merger
in accordance with the Israeli law.
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The ZIM board concluded that the uncertainties, risks and potentially negative factors relevant to the merger were outweighed by the benefits that the ZIM board expects ZIM and
the ZIM shareholders would achieve as a result of the merger.
This discussion of the information and factors considered by the ZIM board includes the principal positive and negative factors considered by the ZIM board, but is not intended
to be exhaustive and may not include all of the factors considered by the ZIM board. In light of the various factors considered in connection with its evaluation of the merger, and the complexity of these matters, the ZIM board did not find it
useful and did not attempt to quantify or assign any relative or specific weights to the various factors that it considered in reaching its determination to approve the merger and to make its recommendation to ZIM shareholders. Rather, the ZIM
board viewed its decisions as being based on the totality of the information presented to it and the various factors it considered. In addition, individual members of the ZIM board may have given differing weights to different factors. The
explanation of the ZIM board’s reasons for the merger and the other transactions and all other information in this section may be forward-looking in nature and therefore should be read in light of the factors discussed in the section entitled “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” elsewhere in this proxy statement.
The ZIM board unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the merger proposal.
Projected Financial Information
Unaudited Financial Projections of ZIM
ZIM does not, as a matter of course, make public projections as to future performance or earnings beyond the current fiscal year and generally does not make public projections for extended
periods due to, among other things, the inherent difficulty of predicting financial performance for future periods and the likelihood that the underlying assumptions and estimates may not be realized. However, ZIM’s management regularly
prepares, and the ZIM board regularly evaluates, prospective financial information concerning ZIM’s future performance. Certain internal unaudited financial projections were prepared for the ZIM board in connection with its consideration of
the Transactions, and were provided to and approved by the ZIM board for use and reliance by ZIM’s financial advisors, Evercore and Barclays, in connection with their financial analyses and opinions as described under the heading “The Merger—Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Evercore Group L.L.C.” and “The Merger—Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Barclays Bank PLC” respectively (such
internal unaudited financial projections are referred to in this proxy statement as the “ZIM Financial Projections”). ZIM Financial Projections were not prepared with a view toward public disclosure. Certain financial projections for the
fourth quarter of 2025 through calendar year 2030 were provided to Parent. ZIM Financial Projections were based on numerous variables and assumptions that are inherently uncertain and may be beyond the control of ZIM’s management, including,
without limitation, factors related to general economic and competitive conditions and prevailing interest and currency exchange rates as well as matters specific to ZIM’s business including supply and demand trends and trends impacting
shipping rates, costs, payroll and other sources of revenue and expenses. Accordingly, actual results could vary significantly from those set forth in such projections. As a result, ZIM does not endorse the projections described below as a
reliable indication of future results. See “Cautionary Statements Regarding ZIM Financial Projects” below and “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements”
and “Risk Factors” included in our 20-F and elsewhere in this proxy statement.
The table below presents revenue and selected non-IFRS financial measures of ZIM Financial Projections. ZIM Financial Projections were updated on a different basis, for a different purpose
and at a different time than ZIM’s statements and/or reports to the public as to ZIM’s forward-looking, current and/or past performance. ZIM Financial Projections were therefore updated in connection with the evaluation of the proposed
transaction and do not, and were not intended to, update or revise any of ZIM’s public statements and/or reports as to its forward-looking, current and/or past performance. ZIM’s Financial Projections were prepared on a stand-alone basis and
therefore do not include any transaction-related expenses, nor do they reflect any effect of an acquisition of ZIM by Parent, any of its affiliates or any other party or other strategic transaction involving ZIM.
ZIM Financial Projections
($ in millions)
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Q4 2025
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2026
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2027
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2028
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2029
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2030
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Revenue
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$
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1,491
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$
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6,689
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$
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6,930
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$
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7,644
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$
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8,236
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$
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8,401
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Adjusted EBITDA (1)
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303
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1,574
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1,871
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2,114
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2,347
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2,369
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Levered Free Cash Flow (2)
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(238
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(211
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304
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355
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566
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595
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(1)
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Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure which we define as net income (loss) adjusted to exclude financial expenses (income), net, income taxes, depreciation and amortization in order to reach
EBITDA, and further adjusted, as applicable, to exclude non-cash charter hire expenses, capital gains (losses) beyond the ordinary course of business and expenses related to legal contingencies.
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(2)
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Levered Free Cash Flow is calculated as Non-IFRS Adjusted EBITDA, adding the impact of sale of assets, adding in the impact of interest income generated from cash on the balance sheet, subtracting the impact
of capital expenditures, subtracting the impact of total debt service inclusive of lease payments, subtracting the impact of cash taxes, and adding or subtracting (as applicable) the impact of changes in net working capital. Calendar year
2030 assumes a long-term effective non-IFRS cash tax rate of 23%, as provided by management of ZIM.
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ZIM Financial Projections include forecasts of non-IFRS measures such as Non-IFRS Adjusted EBITDA and Levered Free Cash Flow, among other things. Reconciliations of ZIM’s Financial
Projections to the most directly comparable IFRS measures are not provided because there is inherent difficulty and uncertainty in estimating or predicting the various components of each corresponding IFRS measure, which components could
significantly impact such financial measure. In addition, when planning, forecasting and analyzing future periods, ZIM does so primarily on a non-IFRS basis without preparing an IFRS analysis since such an analysis would require estimates for
various reconciling items that would be difficult to predict with reasonable accuracy.
Cautionary Statements Regarding ZIM’s Financial Projections
ZIM Financial Projections are unaudited and were developed in connection with the evaluation of the proposed transaction and should be read together with the historical
financial statements of ZIM for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, which have been filed with or furnished to the SEC and incorporated in this proxy statement, and the other information regarding ZIM contained elsewhere or incorporated in
this proxy statement. See the section of this proxy statement captioned “Where You Can Find More Information.” Although presented with numerical specificity, ZIM Financial Projections were prepared in the
context of and incorporating numerous variables, estimates, and assumptions that are inherently uncertain and largely beyond the control of ZIM, and which may prove not to have been, or to no longer be, accurate. Although considered reasonable by
ZIM’s management and the ZIM board as of the date of their preparation and approval, ZIM Financial Projections are subject to many risks and uncertainties. ZIM Financial Projections were not prepared with
a view toward public disclosure, nor were they prepared with a view toward compliance with the published guidelines of the SEC or the guidelines established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants for preparation and
presentation of prospective financial information. ZIM Financial Projections (other than revenue) do not purport to present financial information in accordance with IFRS. Somekh Chaikin, a member firm of KPMG International, ZIM’s independent
registered public accounting firm, has not examined, compiled or otherwise applied or performed any procedures with respect to ZIM Financial Projections, nor has it expressed any opinion or given any form of assurance with respect to such
information or their reasonableness, achievability or accuracy, and accordingly, such independent registered public accounting firm assumes no responsibility for them.
ZIM Financial Projections are based solely upon information available to ZIM’s management as of the date they were prepared and estimates and assumptions made by ZIM’s management as of the date
ZIM Financial Projections were prepared and approved by the ZIM board, as applicable, considering comments as may be received from members of the ZIM board. ZIM Financial Projections do not give effect to the merger, including the impact of
negotiating or executing the merger agreement, the expenses that have been and may be incurred in connection with consummating the merger, the potential synergies that may be achieved by the combined company as a result of the merger, the effect
on ZIM of any business or strategic decision or action that has been or will be taken as a result of the merger agreement having been executed, or the effect of any business or strategic decisions or actions that would likely have been taken if
the merger agreement had not been executed, but that were instead altered, accelerated, postponed or not taken in anticipation of the merger. Further, ZIM Financial Projections do not take into account the effect on ZIM of any possible failure of
the merger to occur.
For the foregoing reasons and considering that the meeting will be held several months after ZIM Financial Projections were prepared, as well as the uncertainties inherent in
any forecasting information, readers of this proxy statement are cautioned not to place unwarranted reliance on ZIM Financial Projections set forth above. No one has made or makes any representation to any of ZIM’s shareholders regarding the
information included in ZIM Financial Projections, and ZIM urges all shareholders of ZIM to review its most recent SEC filings for a description of its reported financial results. See the section of this proxy statement captioned “Where You Can Find More Information.”
NONE OF ZIM OR ITS AFFILIATES, ADVISORS, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS OR REPRESENTATIVES HAS MADE OR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION TO ANY SHAREHOLDER OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON REGARDING THE PERFORMANCE OF ZIM OR
TO THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN ZIM FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS OR THAT FORECASTED RESULTS WILL BE ACHIEVED, AND EXCEPT AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW, NONE OF THEM INTEND TO UPDATE OR OTHERWISE REVISE OR RECONCILE ZIM FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS TO
REFLECT CIRCUMSTANCES EXISTING AFTER THE DATE SUCH PROJECTIONS WERE GENERATED OR TO REFLECT THE OCCURRENCE OF FUTURE EVENTS, EVEN IN THE EVENT THAT ANY OR ALL OF THE ASSUMPTIONS UNDERLYING THE FORECASTS ARE SHOWN TO BE INACCURATE.
Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Evercore Group L.L.C.
ZIM retained Evercore to act as financial advisor in connection with ZIM’s evaluation of strategic and financial
alternatives, including the merger. As part of this engagement, the ZIM board requested that Evercore evaluate the fairness to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than excluded shares), from a financial point of view, of the merger
consideration. At a meeting of the ZIM board, Evercore rendered to the ZIM board its oral opinion, subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026, that as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to
the assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions described in Evercore’s written opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the merger was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders
other than the holders of excluded shares.
The full text of the written opinion of Evercore, dated February 16, 2026, which sets forth, among other things, the procedures followed, assumptions made, matters considered
and qualifications and limitations on the scope of review undertaken in rendering its opinion, is attached as Annex C-1 and is incorporated herein by reference into this proxy statement in its entirety. The summary of the opinion of
Evercore in this proxy statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the written opinion. You are urged to read Evercore’s opinion carefully and in its entirety. Evercore’s opinion was addressed to, and provided for the
information and benefit of, the ZIM board (in its capacity as such) in connection with its evaluation of the proposed merger. The opinion does not constitute a recommendation to the ZIM board or to any other persons in respect of the merger,
including as to how any holder of ZIM ordinary shares should vote or act in respect of the merger. Evercore’s opinion does not address the relative merits of the merger as compared to other business or financial strategies that might be available
to ZIM, nor does it address the underlying business decision of ZIM to engage in the merger.
In connection with rendering its opinion Evercore, among other things:
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reviewed certain publicly available business and financial information relating to ZIM that Evercore deemed to be relevant, including publicly available research analysts’ estimates;
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reviewed certain internal projected financial data relating to ZIM prepared and furnished to Evercore by the management of ZIM, as approved for Evercore’s use by ZIM (including the ZIM Financial
Projections) (the “forecasts”);
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discussed with management of ZIM their assessment of the past and current operations of ZIM, the current financial condition and prospects of ZIM, and the forecasts;
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reviewed the reported prices and the historical trading activity of ZIM ordinary shares;
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compared the financial performance of ZIM and its stock market trading multiples with those of certain other publicly traded companies that Evercore deemed relevant;
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compared the financial performance of ZIM and the valuation multiples relating to the merger with the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of certain other transactions that Evercore deemed relevant;
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reviewed the financial terms and conditions of a draft, dated February 15, 2026 of the merger agreement; and
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performed such other analyses and examinations and considered such other factors that Evercore deemed appropriate.
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For purposes of Evercore’s analysis and opinion, Evercore assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the financial and other information publicly available, and all of the
information supplied or otherwise made available to, discussed with, or reviewed by Evercore, without any independent verification of such information (and Evercore did not assume responsibility or liability for any independent verification of
such information), and further relied upon the assurances of the management of ZIM that they are not aware of any facts or circumstances that would make such information inaccurate or misleading. With respect to the forecasts, Evercore assumed
with the consent of the ZIM board that they were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently available estimates and good faith judgments of the management of ZIM as to the future financial performance of ZIM. Evercore expressed no
view as to the forecasts or the assumptions on which they were based.
For purposes of Evercore’s analysis and opinion, Evercore assumed, in all respects material to its analysis, that the final executed merger agreement would not differ from the
draft merger agreement reviewed by Evercore, that the representations and warranties of each party contained in the merger agreement were true and correct, that each party would perform all of the covenants and agreements required to be performed
by it under the merger agreement and that all conditions to the consummation of the merger would be satisfied without waiver or modification thereof. Evercore further assumed, in all respects material to its analysis, that all governmental,
regulatory or other consents, approvals or releases necessary for the consummation of the merger would be obtained without any delay, limitation, restriction or condition that would have an adverse effect on ZIM or the consummation of the merger or
reduce the contemplated benefits to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares of the merger.
Evercore did not conduct a physical inspection of the properties or facilities of ZIM and did not make or assume any responsibility for making any independent valuation or
appraisal of the assets or liabilities (including any contingent, derivative or other off-balance sheet assets and liabilities) of ZIM, nor was Evercore furnished with any such valuations or appraisals, nor did Evercore evaluate the solvency or
fair value of ZIM under any state or federal laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. Evercore’s opinion was necessarily based upon information made available to Evercore as of the date of its opinion and financial, economic,
market and other conditions as they existed and as could be evaluated on the date of its opinion. Developments subsequent to Evercore’s opinion could affect its opinion and Evercore did not and does not have any obligation to update, revise or
reaffirm its opinion.
Evercore was not asked to pass upon, and expressed no opinion with respect to, any matter other than the fairness to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded
shares), from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration, as of the date of its opinion. Evercore did not express any view on, and Evercore’s opinion did not address, the fairness of the merger to, or any consideration received in
connection therewith by, the holders of any other class of securities, creditors or other constituencies of ZIM, nor as to the fairness of the amount or nature of any compensation to be paid or payable to any of the officers, directors or
employees of ZIM, or any class of such persons, whether relative to the merger consideration or otherwise. Evercore was not asked to, nor did Evercore express any view on, and Evercore’s opinion did not address, any other term or aspect of the
merger agreement or the merger, including, without limitation, the structure or form of the merger, or any term or aspect of any other agreement or instrument contemplated by the merger agreement or entered into or amended in connection with the
merger agreement. Evercore’s opinion did not address the relative merits of the merger as compared to other business or financial strategies that might be available to ZIM, nor did it address the underlying business decision of ZIM to engage in
the merger. Evercore’s opinion did not constitute a recommendation to the ZIM board or to any other persons in respect of the merger, including as to how any holder of ZIM ordinary shares should vote or act in respect of the merger. Evercore did
not express any opinion as to the prices at which ZIM ordinary shares will trade at any time, as to the potential effects of volatility in the credit, financial and stock markets on ZIM or the merger or as to the impact of the merger on the
solvency or viability of ZIM or the ability of ZIM to pay its obligations when they come due. Evercore is not legal, regulatory, accounting or tax experts and assumed the accuracy and completeness of assessments by ZIM and its advisors with
respect to legal, regulatory, accounting and tax matters.
Set forth below is a summary of the material financial analyses reviewed by Evercore with the ZIM board on February 15, 2026 in connection with rendering its opinion. The following summary,
however, does not purport to be a complete description of the analyses performed by Evercore. The order of the analyses described and the results of these analyses do not represent relative importance or weight given to these analyses by
Evercore. Except as otherwise noted, the following quantitative information, to the extent that it is based on market data, is based on market data that existed on or before February 13, 2026 (the last trading date prior to the rendering of
Evercore’s opinion), and is not necessarily indicative of current market conditions.
For purposes of its analyses and reviews, Evercore considered general business, economic, market and financial conditions, industry sector performance, and other matters, as they
existed and could be evaluated as of the date of its opinion, many of which are beyond the control of ZIM. The estimates contained in Evercore’s analyses and reviews, and the ranges of valuations resulting from any particular analysis or review,
are not necessarily indicative of actual values or predictive of future results or values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by Evercore’s analyses and reviews. In addition, analyses and reviews relating to the
value of companies, businesses or securities do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the prices at which companies, businesses or securities actually may be sold. Accordingly, the estimates used in, and the results derived from, Evercore’s
analyses and reviews are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty.
The following summary of Evercore’s financial analyses includes information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand the analyses, the tables
should be read together with the full text of each summary. The tables are not intended to stand alone and alone do not constitute a complete description of Evercore’s financial analyses. Considering the tables below without considering the full
narrative description of Evercore’s financial analyses, including the methodologies and assumptions underlying such analyses, could create a misleading or incomplete view of such analyses.
Summary of Evercore’s Financial Analyses
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
Evercore performed a discounted cash flow analysis of ZIM to calculate ranges of estimated present values per ZIM ordinary share by discounting back to present value the
standalone after-tax levered free cash flows that ZIM was forecasted to generate during the period from September 30, 2025 through December 31, 2030 based on the forecasts. Evercore calculated terminal values for ZIM by applying a range of
perpetuity growth rates of 2.0% to 3.0%, which range was selected based on Evercore’s professional judgment and experience, to an estimate of the after-tax levered free cash flows that ZIM was forecasted to generate in the terminal year based on
the forecasts. The cash flows and terminal values in each case were then discounted to present value as of September 30, 2025, using discount rates ranging from 15.0% to 24.0%, representing an estimate of ZIM’s cost of equity, as estimated by
Evercore based on its professional judgment and experience, to derive implied equity value reference ranges for ZIM. Based on these ranges of implied equity values, assuming a minimum cash balance for ZIM of $1 billion to $2 billion, and the
number of fully diluted outstanding ZIM ordinary shares as of September 30, 2025, as provided by ZIM’s management, this analysis indicated a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share of $19.27 to $40.85, as compared to the closing
price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on August 8, 2025, the last trading day before media reports of a potential acquisition of ZIM (the “unaffected date”), $22.20 on February 13, 2026, the last trading day prior to the rendering of Evercore’s
opinion (the “last trading date”), and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Selected Publicly Traded Companies Analysis
Evercore reviewed and compared certain financial information of ZIM to corresponding financial multiples and ratios for the following selected publicly traded companies:
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• |
A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S
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• |
Evergreen Marine Corp Taiwan Ltd
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Orient Overseas (International) Limited
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• |
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp
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For each of the selected companies, Evercore (i) calculated total enterprise value (defined as equity market capitalization plus total financial debt and lease liabilities, plus
preferred equity and minority interest, plus after-tax unfunded pension liabilities and other post-employment benefit obligations, less cash and cash equivalents, less investments in associates) as a multiple of estimated 2025 and 2026 earnings
before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (referred to as “EBITDA,” and such multiples referred to as “TEV / 2025E EBITDA” and “TEV / 2026E EBITDA,” respectively), and (ii) price per share as a multiple of book value of equity as of the
selected companies most recently completed fiscal quarter for which tangible book value information was publicly available as of February 13, 2026 (referred to as “P / BV”), each based on closing share prices as of February 13, 2026.
This analysis indicated the following:
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Company
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TEV / 2025E EBITDA
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TEV / 2026E EBITDA
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P / BV
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A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S
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3.3x
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5.5x
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0.64x
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Hapag-Lloyd
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6.8x
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8.4x
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1.19x
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Evergreen Marine Corp Taiwan Ltd
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3.1x
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4.2x
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0.75x
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Orient Overseas (International) Limited
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2.6x
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N/A
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0.86x
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Wan Hai Lines Ltd
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2.2x
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2.2x
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0.82x
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Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp
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(0.6x)
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(0.6x)
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0.58x
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Based on the multiples it derived for the selected companies and based on its professional judgment and experience, Evercore applied (i) a TEV / 2025E EBITDA multiple reference range of 2.0x to
3.5x to ZIM’s 2025E EBITDA as reflected in the forecasts and a TEV / 2026E EBITDA multiple reference range of 3.5x to 5.5x to ZIM’s 2026E EBITDA as reflected in the forecasts, to derive ranges of implied enterprise values for ZIM (and, based on
ZIM’s estimated financial debt, lease liabilities, non-controlling interest, investments in associates and total cash position as of September 30, 2025, in each case, as provided by ZIM’s management, ranges of implied equity values for ZIM), and
(ii) a P / BV multiple reference range of 0.6x to 0.9x to ZIM’s book value of equity as of September 30, 2025, to derive ranges of implied equity values for ZIM. Based on these ranges of implied equity values, and the number of fully diluted
outstanding ZIM ordinary shares as of September 30, 2025, as provided by ZIM’s management, this analysis indicated a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share of (i) $13.60 to $40.33, based on 2025E EBITDA and $23.70 to $49.84, based
on 2026E EBITDA, and (ii) $20.00 to $30.00, based on tangible book value, each as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $22.20 on the last trading date, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Although none of the selected companies is directly comparable to ZIM, Evercore selected these companies because they are publicly traded companies that Evercore, in its
professional judgment and experience, considered generally relevant to ZIM for purposes of its financial analyses. In evaluating the selected companies, Evercore made judgments and assumptions with regard to general business, economic and market
conditions affecting the selected companies and other matters, as well as differences in the selected companies’ financial, business and operating characteristics. Accordingly, an evaluation of the results of this analysis is not entirely
mathematical. Rather, this analysis involves complex considerations and judgments regarding many factors that could affect the relative values of the selected companies and the multiples derived from the selected companies.
Selected Transaction Analysis
Evercore reviewed financial information related to the following selected transactions involving target companies in the container liner industry announced since April 2014
(the “selected transactions”). For each selected transaction, Evercore calculated P / BV multiples paid by the acquiror. Estimated financial data of the selected transactions were based on publicly available information at the time of announcement
of the relevant transaction. The selected transactions reviewed by Evercore, the month and year each was announced, and the multiples observed were as follows:
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Month and Year Announced
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Acquiror
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Target
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P / BV
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July 2017
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China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited / Shanghai International Port Group
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Orient Overseas (International) Limited
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1.37x
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July 2016
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Hapag-Lloyd
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United Arab Shipping Co.
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0.47x
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December 2015
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China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited
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China Shipping Group
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1.50x
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December 2015
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CMA CGM Group
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Neptune Orient Lines Limited
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0.96x
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April 2014
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Hapag-Lloyd
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Compañía Sud Americana de Vapores
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2.18x
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Benchmark
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P / BV
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P / BV (All selected transactions)
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1.30x
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P / BV (selected transactions where the consideration was all cash)
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1.28x
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Based on the multiples derived from the selected transactions and based on its professional judgment and experience, Evercore selected a reference range of P / BV multiples of
0.95x to 1.50x and applied this range of multiples to ZIM’s book value of equity as of September 30, 2025, to derive ranges of implied equity values for ZIM. Based on the number of fully diluted ZIM ordinary shares, as provided by ZIM’s management,
this analysis indicated a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share of $31.67 to $50.00, as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $22.20 on the last trading date, and the merger
consideration of $35.00.
Although none of the target companies or businesses reviewed in the selected transactions analysis is directly comparable to ZIM and none of the selected transactions is directly
comparable to the merger, Evercore selected these transactions because they involve companies or businesses that Evercore, in its professional judgment and experience, considered generally relevant to ZIM for purposes of its financial analyses. In
evaluating the selected transactions, Evercore made judgments and assumptions with regard to general business, economic and market conditions and other factors existing at the time of the selected transactions, and other matters, as well as
differences in financial, business and operating characteristics and other factors relevant to the target companies or businesses in the selected transactions. Accordingly, an evaluation of the results of this analysis is not entirely mathematical.
Rather, this analysis involves complex considerations and judgments regarding many factors that could affect the relative values of the target companies or businesses in the selected transactions and the multiples derived from the selected
transactions. Mathematical analysis, such as determining the mean or median, is not in itself a meaningful method of using the data of the selected transactions.
Other Factors
Evercore also noted certain other factors, which were not considered material to its financial analyses with respect to its opinion, but were referenced for informational
purposes only, including, among other things, the following:
52-Week Trading Range Analysis
Evercore reviewed historical trading prices of ZIM ordinary shares during the 52-week period ended February 13, 2026, noting that low and high prices (based on closing prices)
during such period ranged from $11.04 to $24.47 per ZIM ordinary share, as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $22.20 on the last trading date, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Premiums Paid Analysis
Using publicly available information, Evercore reviewed identified transactions involving acquisitions of 100% of the outstanding shares for U.S. publicly traded targets with an
aggregate transaction value ranging from $3.0 billion to $8.0 billion since January 1, 2020, excluding spin-off transactions, transactions in the financial and real estate investment trust sector, transactions where the acquirer was a creditor and
select transactions that did not publicly disclose the relevant data. Using publicly available information, Evercore calculated the premiums paid as the percentage by which the per share consideration paid or proposed to be paid in each such
transaction exceeded the closing market price per the target companies one day, one week and one month prior to the announcement of each such transaction.
This analysis indicated the following:
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Consideration Type
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1 Day Prior
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1 Week Prior
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1 Month prior
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All Transactions
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|
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Median
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28.4%
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31.7%
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34.7%
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75th percentile
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53.3%
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49.8%
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58.7%
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Mean
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36.9%
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39.1%
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43.9%
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25th percentile
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13.9%
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17.8%
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22.2%
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All Cash Transactions
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Median
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31.9%
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34.6%
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41.6%
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75th percentile
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54.0%
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55.7%
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61.7%
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Mean
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40.1%
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42.7%
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48.9%
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25th percentile
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20.1%
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20.2%
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26.8%
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Based on the results of this analysis and its professional judgment and experience, Evercore applied a premium range of 14.2% to 58.6% to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share
of $15.50 on the unaffected date. This analysis indicated a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share of $17.65 to $24.60, as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $22.20 on the last
trading date, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Equity Research Analysts’ Price Targets
Evercore reviewed selected publicly available share price targets of research analysts’ estimates known to Evercore as of February 13, 2026, noting that low and high share price
targets per ZIM ordinary share ranged from $8.70 to $21.00, as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $22.20 on the last trading date, and the merger consideration of $35.00. Public market trading
price targets published by equity research analysts do not necessarily reflect current market trading prices for ZIM ordinary shares and these target prices and the analysts’ earnings estimates on which they were based are subject to risk and
uncertainties, including factors affecting the financial performance of ZIM and future general industry and market conditions.
Miscellaneous
The foregoing summary of Evercore’s financial analyses does not purport to be a complete description of the analyses or data presented by Evercore to the ZIM board. In connection with the review
of the merger by the ZIM board, Evercore performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses for purposes of rendering its opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and is not necessarily susceptible to partial
analysis or summary description. Selecting portions of the analyses or of the summary described above, without considering the analyses as a whole, could create an incomplete view of the processes underlying Evercore’s opinion. In arriving at its
fairness determination, Evercore considered the results of all the analyses and did not draw, in isolation, conclusions from or with regard to any one analysis or factor considered by it for purposes of its opinion. Rather, Evercore made its
determination as to fairness on the basis of its professional judgment and experience after considering the results of all the analyses. In addition, Evercore may have given various analyses and factors more or less weight than other analyses and
factors and may have deemed various assumptions more or less probable than other assumptions. As a result, the ranges of valuations resulting from any particular analysis or combination of analyses described above should not be taken to be the
view of Evercore with respect to the actual value of the ZIM ordinary shares. Further, Evercore’s analyses involve complex considerations and judgments concerning financial and operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the
acquisition, public trading or other values of the companies used, including judgments and assumptions with regard to industry performance, general business, economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond
the control of ZIM or its advisors. Rounding may result in total sums set forth in this section not equaling the total of the figures shown.
Evercore prepared these analyses for the purpose of providing an opinion to the ZIM board as to the fairness to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares),
from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration. These analyses do not purport to be appraisals or to necessarily reflect the prices at which the business or securities actually may be sold. Any estimates contained in these analyses
are not necessarily indicative of actual future results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by such estimates. Accordingly, estimates used in, and the results derived from, Evercore’s analyses are inherently
subject to substantial uncertainty, and Evercore assumes no responsibility if future results are materially different from those forecasted in such estimates.
Evercore’s financial advisory services and its opinion were provided for the information and benefit of the ZIM Board (in its capacity as such) in connection with its
evaluation of the proposed merger. The issuance of Evercore’s opinion was approved by an opinion committee of Evercore.
Evercore did not recommend any specific amount of consideration to the ZIM board or ZIM’s management or that any specific amount of consideration constituted the only
appropriate consideration in the merger for the holders of ZIM ordinary shares.
Pursuant to the terms of Evercore’s engagement letter with ZIM, entered into on May 15, 2025 (as amended on December 3, 2025), ZIM has agreed to pay Evercore a fee for its
services in the aggregate amount of approximately $14 million, of which (i) $1 million became payable prior to the delivery of Evercore’s opinion, (ii) $3 million was payable upon delivery of Evercore’s opinion, and (iii) the remainder of which is
payable contingent upon the consummation of the merger. ZIM may, in its sole discretion, upon the successful consummation of the merger pay Evercore an additional discretionary fee, based upon, among other things, the resources expended by Evercore
in the course of the assignment, ZIM’s satisfaction with the services rendered and the benefit to ZIM and its stakeholders of the successful conclusion of the assignment. ZIM has also agreed to reimburse Evercore for certain of its expenses and to
indemnify Evercore against certain liabilities arising out of its engagement.
During the two-year period prior to the date of its opinion, Evercore and its affiliates have provided financial advisory services or other services to ZIM and received fees for
the rendering of these services in the amount of approximately $2.5 million. In addition, during the two-year period prior to the date of its opinion, Evercore and its affiliates have not been engaged to provide financial advisory or other services
to Parent and have not received any compensation from Parent during such period. In addition, during the two-year period prior to the date hereof, Evercore and its affiliates have not been engaged to provide financial advisory or other services to
First Israel Mezzanine Investors Ltd. and have not received any compensation from First Israel Mezzanine Investors Ltd. during such period. Evercore may provide financial advisory or other services to ZIM, Parent and/or their respective affiliates
in the future, and in connection with any such services Evercore may receive compensation.
Evercore and its affiliates engage in a wide range of activities for its and their own accounts and the accounts of customers, including corporate finance, mergers and
acquisitions, equity sales, trading and research, private equity, placement agent, asset management and related activities. In connection with these businesses or otherwise, Evercore and its affiliates and/or its or their respective employees, as
well as investment funds in which any of them may have a financial interest, may at any time, directly or indirectly, hold long or short positions and may trade or otherwise effect transactions for their own accounts or the accounts of customers,
in debt or equity securities, senior loans and/or derivative products or other financial instruments of or relating to ZIM, Parent, potential parties to the merger and/or any of their respective affiliates or persons that are competitors, customers
or suppliers of ZIM or Parent.
ZIM engaged Evercore to act as a financial advisor based on Evercore’s qualifications, experience and reputation. Evercore is an internationally recognized investment banking
firm and regularly provides fairness opinions in connection with mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts and valuations for corporate and other purposes.
Opinion of ZIM’s Financial Advisors—Barclays Bank PLC
Pursuant to an engagement letter, ZIM engaged Barclays to act as financial advisor with respect to the proposed transaction. On February 15, 2026, Barclays rendered its oral opinion (which was
subsequently confirmed in writing) to the ZIM board that, as of such date, and based upon and subject to the qualifications, limitations and assumptions stated in its opinion, the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed merger was fair,
from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares).
The full text of Barclays’ written opinion, dated as of February 16, 2026, is attached as Annex C-2 to this proxy statement and is incorporated by
reference herein. Barclays’ written opinion sets forth, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, factors considered and limitations upon the review undertaken by Barclays in rendering its opinion. The summary of the opinion of
Barclays set forth in this proxy statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of such opinion. Holders of ZIM ordinary shares are urged to read the opinion in its entirety. Barclays’ opinion, the issuance of which was
approved by Barclays’ Fairness Opinion Committee, is addressed to the ZIM board in connection with its consideration of the proposed transaction, addresses only the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares
(other than the holders of excluded shares) of the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed transaction. Barclays expressed no opinion as to the fairness of any consideration to be paid in connection with the proposed transaction to the
holders of any class of securities, creditors or other constituencies of ZIM or as to the underlying decision by ZIM to engage in the proposed transaction. The opinion is not intended to be and does not constitute a recommendation to any holder of
ZIM ordinary shares as to how such holder should vote with respect to the proposed transaction.
Barclays’ opinion, the issuance of which was approved by Barclays’ Fairness Opinion Committee, is addressed to the ZIM board in connection with its consideration of the proposed transaction,
addresses only the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares) of the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed merger and does not constitute a recommendation to
any holder of ZIM ordinary shares as to how such holder should vote with respect to the merger or any other matter. The terms of the merger were determined through arm’s-length negotiations between ZIM and Parent and were unanimously approved by
the ZIM board. Barclays did not recommend any specific form of consideration to ZIM or that any specific form of consideration constituted the only appropriate consideration for the merger. Barclays was not requested to address, and its opinion
does not in any manner address, ZIM’s underlying business decision to proceed with or effect the merger, the likelihood of the consummation of the merger, or the relative merits of the mergers as compared to any other transaction or business
strategy in which ZIM may engage. In addition, Barclays expressed no opinion on, and its opinion does not in any manner address, the fairness of the amount or the nature of any compensation to any officers, directors or employees of any parties
to the mergers, or any class of such persons, relative to the merger consideration to be paid in the mergers. No limitations were imposed by the ZIM board upon Barclays with respect to the investigations made or procedures followed by it in
rendering its opinion.
Barclays was not requested to opine on, and its opinion did not in any manner address, ZIM’s underlying business decision to
proceed with or effect the proposed transaction. In addition, Barclays expressed no opinion on, and its opinion did not in any manner address, the fairness of the amount or the nature of any compensation to any officers, directors or employees of
any parties to the proposed transaction, or any class of such persons, relative to the consideration to be offered to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the proposed transaction. Barclays’ opinion did not address the relative merits of the
proposed transaction as compared to any other transaction or business strategy in which ZIM might engage.
In arriving at its opinion, Barclays, among other things:
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• |
reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other business and financial information relating to ZIM that Barclays considered relevant to its analysis, including ZIM’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended
December 31, 2024;
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|
• |
reviewed certain internal financial statements and other financial and operating data relating to ZIM provided to Barclays by ZIM, including financial projections prepared by ZIM;
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• |
reviewed a trading history of ZIM ordinary shares between January 28, 2021 and February 5, 2026 and compared such trading history with those of certain other companies that Barclays deemed relevant;
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• |
reviewed the historical financial results and present financial condition of ZIM and compared them with those of certain other companies that Barclays deemed relevant;
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• |
reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of certain other transactions that Barclays deemed relevant and compared them with the financial terms of the proposed transaction;
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• |
discussed ZIM’s past and current business, operations, assets, liabilities, financial condition and prospects with ZIM’s management, including the cash management policies and liquidity requirements of ZIM;
|
|
• |
reviewed a draft dated February 15, 2026 of the merger agreement; and
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|
• |
reviewed such other information, performed such other analyses, undertook such other studies and considered such other factors as Barclays deemed appropriate.
|
Barclays assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of the financial or other information reviewed by Barclays for the purposes of its opinion, without any independent
verification of such information, and further relied upon the assurances of ZIM’s management that they were not aware of any facts or circumstances that would make any such information inaccurate or misleading. With respect to ZIM’s financial
forecasts and projections, upon the advice of ZIM, Barclays assumed that they were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently available information, estimates and judgments of ZIM’s management as to the future financial performance
of ZIM and that ZIM will perform substantially in accordance with such projections. Barclays assumed no liability or responsibility for and expressed no opinion with respect to such financial forecasts and projections or the assumptions on which
they were based. In arriving at its opinion, Barclays did not conduct a physical inspection of the properties and facilities of ZIM and did not make or obtain any independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities (including any
derivative or off-balance sheet assets and liabilities) of ZIM, nor did Barclays evaluate the solvency or fair value of ZIM or Parent under any laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. Barclays’ opinion was necessarily based on
financial, economic, market and other conditions as they existed, and could be evaluated, on February 16, 2026. Barclays assumed no obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its opinion based on circumstances that may occur after February 16, 2026.
Barclays assumed that the executed merger agreement would conform in all material respects to the last draft reviewed by Barclays. Barclays also assumed, upon the advice of ZIM,
that all material governmental, regulatory and third party approvals, consents and releases for the proposed transaction would be obtained within the constraints contemplated by the merger agreement and that the proposed transaction would be
completed in accordance with the terms and conditions set out in the merger agreement without waiver, modification or amendment of any material term or condition thereof. Barclays did not express any opinion as to any tax or other consequences that
might result from the proposed transaction, nor did Barclays’ opinion address any legal, tax, regulatory or accounting matters, as to which Barclays understood that ZIM obtained such advice as it deemed necessary from qualified professionals.
In connection with rendering its opinion, Barclays performed certain financial, comparative and other analyses as
summarized below. In arriving at its opinion, Barclays did not ascribe a specific range of values to the shares of ZIM ordinary shares but rather made its determination as to fairness, from a financial point of view, to the holders of ZIM
ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares) of the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed transaction on the basis of various financial and comparative analyses. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process
and involves various determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial and comparative analyses and the application of those methods to the particular circumstances. Therefore, a fairness opinion is not readily
susceptible to summary description.
In arriving at its opinion, Barclays did not attribute any particular weight to any single analysis or factor considered by it but rather made qualitative judgments as to the
significance and relevance of each analysis and factor relative to all other analyses and factors performed and considered by it and in the context of the circumstances of the particular transaction. Accordingly, Barclays believes that its analyses
must be considered as a whole, as considering any portion of such analyses and factors, without considering all analyses and factors as a whole, could create a misleading or incomplete view of the process underlying its opinion.
Summary of Material Financial Analyses
The following is a summary of the material financial analyses used by Barclays in preparing its opinion to the ZIM board. The summary of Barclays’ analyses and reviews provided below is not a
complete description of the analyses and reviews underlying Barclays’ opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process involving various determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of analysis and review and
the application of those methods to particular circumstances, and, therefore, is not readily susceptible to summary description.
For the purposes of its analyses and reviews, Barclays made numerous assumptions with respect to industry performance, general business, economic, market and financial conditions
and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of ZIM, Parent, Barclays or any other parties to the mergers. No company, business or transaction considered in Barclays’ analyses and reviews is identical to ZIM, Parent, Merger Sub or the
proposed transaction, and an evaluation of the results of those analyses and reviews is not entirely mathematical. Rather, the analyses and reviews involve complex considerations and judgments concerning financial and operating characteristics and
other factors that could affect the acquisition, public trading or other values of the companies, businesses or transactions considered in Barclays’ analyses and reviews. None of ZIM, Parent, Merger Sub, Barclays or any other person assumes
responsibility if future results are materially different from those discussed. Any estimates contained in these analyses and reviews and the ranges of valuations resulting from any particular analysis or review are not necessarily indicative of
actual values or predictive of future results or values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than as set forth below. In addition, analyses relating to the value of companies, businesses or securities do not purport to be appraisals
or reflect the prices at which the companies, businesses or securities may actually be sold. Accordingly, the estimates used in, and the results derived from, Barclays’ analyses and reviews are inherently subject to substantial uncertainty.
The summary of the financial analyses and reviews provided below includes information presented in tabular format. In order to fully understand the financial analyses and reviews
used by Barclays, the tables must be read together with the text of each summary, as the tables alone do not constitute a complete description of the financial analyses and reviews. Considering the data in the tables below without considering the
full description of the analyses and reviews, including the methodologies and assumptions underlying the analyses and reviews, could create a misleading or incomplete view of Barclays’ analyses and reviews.
Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
In order to estimate the present value of ZIM ordinary shares, Barclays performed a discounted cash flow analysis of ZIM. A discounted cash flow analysis is a traditional
valuation methodology used to derive a valuation of an asset by calculating the “present value” of estimated future cash flows of the asset. “Present value” refers to the current value of future cash flows or amounts and is obtained by discounting
those future cash flows or amounts by a discount rate that takes into account macroeconomic assumptions and estimates of risk, the opportunity cost of capital, expected returns and other appropriate factors.
To calculate the estimated equity value of ZIM using the discounted cash flow method, Barclays first added (i) ZIM’s projected levered free cash flows to equity for the fourth quarter of 2025
through 2030 from the forecasts (which forecasts assume no excess cash and reflect the respective interest income on ZIM’s cash balances in expected future cash flows) to (ii) the “terminal value” of ZIM as of December 31, 2030, and discounted
such amount to its present value as of September 30, 2025 using a range of selected discount rates. Barclays then subtracted from the resulting outcome ZIM’s non-controlling interest and non-current employee benefits, and added ZIM’s investments
in associates. The residual value of ZIM at the end of the forecast period, or “terminal value,” was estimated by selecting a range of perpetuity growth rates ranging from 1.5% to 2.5%, which were derived by Barclays using its professional
judgment and experience. The range of discount rates of 17.0% to 21.0% was selected based on an analysis of the weighted average cost of equity of ZIM. Barclays then calculated a range of implied prices per ZIM ordinary share based on the fully
diluted number of ZIM ordinary shares, in each case as provided by the management of ZIM and approved for Barclays’ use by ZIM. These calculations resulted in a range of implied prices per share of $14.19 to $21.24, as compared to the closing
price per share of ZIM ordinary shares of $15.50 on August 8, 2025, the last trading day before news of a potential management buyout leaked (the “unaffected date”), $20.33 on February 5, 2026, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Selected Precedent Transactions Analysis
Barclays reviewed and compared the purchase prices and financial multiples paid in selected container shipping transactions that Barclays, based on its experience with merger and
acquisition transactions, deemed relevant. Barclays chose such transactions based on, among other things, the similarity of the applicable target companies in the transactions to ZIM with respect to the business profile, size, mix, margins and
other characteristics of their businesses.
For each of these selected precedent container shipping transactions, using publicly available information, Barclays calculated and analyzed multiples of price to book value
represented by the prices paid in such selected transactions. The following table sets forth the transactions analyzed based on such characteristics, the date each transaction was announced and the results of such analysis:
|
Month and Year Announced
|
|
Acquiror
|
|
Target
|
|
Price to Book Multiples
|
|
July 2017
|
|
China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited / Shanghai International Port Group
|
|
Orient Overseas (International) Limited
|
|
1.4x
|
|
December 2016
|
|
A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S
|
|
Hamburg Südamerikanische Dampfschifffahrts-Gesellschaft KG (Hamburg Süd)
|
|
1.3x
|
|
June 2016
|
|
Hapag-Lloyd
|
|
United Arab Shipping Co.
|
|
0.8x
|
|
December 2015
|
|
CMA CGM Group
|
|
Neptune Orient Lines Limited
|
|
1.0x
|
|
April 2014
|
|
Compañía Sud Americana de Vapores
|
|
Hapag-Lloyd
|
|
0.7x
|
The reasons for and the circumstances surrounding each of the selected precedent container shipping transactions analyzed were diverse and there are inherent differences in the
business, operations, financial and market conditions in addition to the prospects of ZIM and the companies included in the selected precedent container shipping transaction analysis. Based upon the multiples for the precedent transactions set
forth above, Barclays selected a range of 0.9x to 1.1x multiples of price to book value. These calculations using ZIM’s price per book value as of September 30, 2025, as reported in ZIM’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, resulted
in a range of implied prices per share of $28.73 to $35.03, as compared to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $20.33 on February 5, 2026, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
Selected Comparable Company Analysis
In order to assess how the public market values shares of similar publicly traded companies and to provide a range of relative implied equity values per share of ZIM ordinary
shares by reference to those companies, Barclays reviewed and compared specific financial and operating data relating to ZIM with selected companies that Barclays, based on its experience in the global container shipping industry, deemed comparable
to ZIM. The selected comparable companies with respect to ZIM were:
|
• |
A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S
|
|
• |
China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited
|
|
• |
Evergreen Marine Corp Taiwan Ltd
|
|
• |
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp
|
Barclays calculated and compared various financial multiples and ratios of ZIM and the selected comparable companies. As part of its selected comparable company analysis, Barclays calculated and
analyzed each selected company’s ratio of (i) its current share price to its book value of equity (“P / BV”), (ii) its enterprise value to its invested capital, which was calculated by adding the net financial debt to its total equity (“EV /
IC”), and (iii) its enterprise value to its estimated projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”) for fiscal year 2026 (“26E EBITDA”) as reflected in the forecasts. Enterprise value of each company was
calculated as the market value of common equity plus net debt, the book value of non‑controlling interests, and the book value of investments in associates and joint ventures. Net debt is defined as total interest‑bearing liabilities, including
short‑term and long‑term debt and capitalized lease liabilities, less cash and cash equivalents. Unless stated otherwise, all of these calculations were performed, and based on publicly available
financial data (including FactSet) and closing prices, as of February 5, 2026. The results of this selected comparable company analysis are summarized below:
|
Company
|
P / BV
|
EV / IC
|
EV / 2026E
EBITDA
|
|
A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S
|
0.7x
|
0.6x
|
5.5x
|
|
Hapag-Lloyd
|
1.2x
|
1.1x
|
10.0x
|
|
China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited
|
0.8x
|
0.3x
|
1.6x
|
|
Evergreen Marine Corp Taiwan Ltd
|
0.8x
|
0.7x
|
4.6x
|
|
HMM Co Ltd
|
0.8x
|
0.8x
|
11.8x
|
|
Wan Hai Lines Ltd
|
0.8x
|
0.8x
|
3.2x
|
|
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp
|
0.6x
|
0.3x
|
2.1x
|
Barclays selected the comparable companies listed above because their businesses and operating profiles are reasonably similar to that of ZIM. However, because of the inherent
differences between the business, operations and prospects of ZIM and those of the selected comparable companies, Barclays believed that it was inappropriate to, and therefore did not, rely solely on the quantitative results of the selected
comparable company analysis. Accordingly, Barclays also made qualitative judgments concerning differences between the business, financial and operating characteristics and prospects of ZIM. These qualitative judgments related primarily to the
differing sizes, growth prospects, profitability levels and degree of operational risk between ZIM and the companies included in the selected company analysis.
Based upon the analysis described above and its professional judgment, Barclays selected (i) a range of P / BV multiples of 0.7x to 0.9x and applied such range to ZIM’s BV as of September 30,
2025, (ii) a range of EV / IC multiples of 0.6x to 0.8x and applied such range to ZIM’s invested capital as of September 30, 2025, and (iii) a range of EV / 26E EBITDA multiples of 4.1x to 5.1x and applied such range to ZIM’s projected 26E EBITDA
as reflected in the forecasts, then in the case of EV/IC and EV/EBITDA multiple outcomes subtracted ZIM’s reported net financial debt as of September 30, 2025, non-controlling interest and non-current employee benefits and pensions, and added
ZIM’s investments in associates to calculate a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share. The following summarizes the results of these calculations:
| |
Assumed Multiple Range
|
Implied Equity Value per Share of ZIM ordinary shares
|
|
P / BV
|
0.7x – 0.9x
|
$22.81 – $27.84
|
|
EV / IC
|
0.6x – 0.8x
|
$11.90 – $19.48
|
|
EV / 2026E EBITDA
|
4.1x – 5.1x
|
$32.10 – $44.01
|
Other Factors
Barclays also reviewed and considered other factors, which were not considered part of its financial analyses in connection with rendering its advice, but were references for
informational purposes, including, among other things, the Historical Trading Performance Analysis, Broker Price Target Analysis, and Transaction Premium Analysis.
Historical Trading Performance Analysis
Barclays reviewed the 52-week high and low closing share prices for ZIM, as of February 5, 2026. ZIM’s 52-week low closing share price was $11.71 and its 52-week high closing
share price was $23.27. The 52-week trading range for ZIM was used for informational purposes only and were not included in Barclays’ financial analyses.
Broker Price Target Analysis
Barclays reviewed the price targets published by brokers (as of February 5, 2026) covering ZIM. The per-share price target range for ZIM was $8.70 to $21.00 with a mean of
$14.48. Broker price targets were used for informational purposes only and were not included in Barclays’s financial analysis.
Transaction Premium Analysis
In order to assess the premium offered to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares) in the proposed transaction relative to the premiums
offered to stockholders in other transactions, Barclays reviewed the premiums paid in completed acquisitions of Israeli based publicly listed companies since 2015, in addition to completed transactions with US targets and purchase price greater
than $1 billion since 2010. For each transaction, Barclays calculated the premium per share paid by the acquiror by comparing the announced transaction value per share to the target company’s closing market price one day and thirty days prior to
the announcement of each such transaction. The results of this transaction premium analysis are summarized below:
|
Israel Premiums
|
1-Day
|
30-Day
|
|
Average
|
30%
|
35%
|
|
Median
|
20%
|
26%
|
|
US Premiums
|
1-Day
|
30-Day
|
|
Average
|
34%
|
43%
|
|
Median
|
24%
|
34%
|
The reasons for and the circumstances surrounding each of the transactions analyzed in the transaction premium analysis were diverse and there are inherent differences in the
business, operations, financial conditions and prospects of ZIM and the companies included in the transaction premium analysis. Accordingly, Barclays believed that a purely quantitative transaction premium analysis would not be particularly
meaningful in the context of considering the proposed transaction. Barclays therefore made qualitative judgments concerning the differences between the characteristics of the selected transactions and the proposed transaction which would affect the
acquisition values of the target companies and ZIM. Based upon these judgments, Barclays selected a premium range of 20% to 40% and applied such range to the closing price per ZIM ordinary share on the unaffected date to calculate a range of
implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share on a fully diluted basis. The foregoing analysis yielded a range of implied equity values per ZIM ordinary share on a fully diluted basis of $18.60 to $21.70, as compared to the closing price per ZIM
ordinary share of $15.50 on the unaffected date, $20.33 on February 5, 2026, and the merger consideration of $35.00.
General
Barclays is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and, as part of its investment banking activities, is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses and their
securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, investments for passive and control purposes, negotiated underwritings, competitive bids, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for
estate, corporate and other purposes. The ZIM board selected Barclays because of its familiarity with ZIM and its qualifications, reputation and experience in the valuation of businesses and securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions
generally, as well as substantial experience in transactions comparable to the proposed transaction.
Barclays was engaged by ZIM solely to provide an opinion to ZIM’s board with respect to the fairness, from a financial
point of view, of the merger consideration to the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares) pursuant to the proposed merger, in accordance with and subject to Barclays’ customary practice. Barclays did not
advise ZIM’s board in connection with the proposed transaction and were not involved in any of the negotiations between ZIM and Parent leading to the proposed merger. As compensation for its services in connection with the proposed merger, ZIM
paid Barclays €1.5 million upon the delivery of Barclays’ opinion, which is referred to as the “opinion fee”. The opinion fee was not contingent upon the conclusion of Barclays’ opinion or the consummation of the proposed transaction. In
addition, ZIM agreed to reimburse Barclays for its reasonable expenses incurred in connection with its engagement by ZIM and to indemnify Barclays for certain liabilities that could arise out of its engagement. Barclays has provided various
investment banking and financial services to ZIM in the past; however in the past two years, Barclays has not received fees from ZIM, Parent or First Israel Mezzanine Investors Ltd. for any investment banking and financial services. Barclays
may also provide investment banking services to ZIM and/or Parent in the future, for which it would expect to receive customary fees.
Barclays Bank PLC, together with its affiliates (the “Barclays Group”), is a major global financial services provider, engaged in
a wide range of commercial banking, investment banking, investment management and other activities. In the ordinary course of such activities, Barclays Bank PLC and other members of the Barclays Group (or investment funds managed by them or in
which they have financial interests) may trade, for their own account or the accounts of their customers, and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position, in debt and/or equity securities (and/or related derivative securities) of
the ZIM and Parent. Furthermore, members of the Barclays Group may have maintained, and may continue to maintain, banking and other commercial relationships with the ZIM and Parent from time to time.
Regulatory Approvals
Israeli Companies Law
Under the Companies Law and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the merger may not be completed until each of ZIM and Merger Sub files with the Companies Registrar
the ICA merger proposal setting forth specified details with respect to the merger within three days of calling the ZIM special general meeting to approve the merger and satisfies all notice requirements in
connection with such ICA merger proposal (as discussed below), and the applicable statutory waiting periods have elapsed.
Pursuant to the Companies Law, each of ZIM and Merger Sub, as applicable, must (i) send a copy of the ICA merger proposal to its respective secured creditors, if any, within
three days from the date on which the ICA merger proposal was filed with the Companies Registrar and (ii) within four business days (for purposes of this paragraph, as such term is defined in the Companies
Law) after the date of such filing, inform its known substantial creditors (as defined in the Companies Regulations (Merger), 5760-2000), if any, individually by registered mail of such filing and where the ICA merger proposal can be reviewed. Each of ZIM and Merger Sub, as applicable, must also inform creditors, if any, by publication in two daily Hebrew newspapers in Israel on the day that the ICA merger
proposal is submitted to the Companies Registrar and, with respect to ZIM, in one popular newspaper in New York within three business days of the date that the ICA merger proposal is filed with the Companies Registrar. Each of ZIM and Merger Sub
must notify their respective creditors of its ICA merger proposal in accordance with these requirements, to the extent applicable. Each of ZIM and Merger Sub must notify the Companies Registrar of the delivery of such notices given to its
respective creditors within three business days following the date on which such notice was sent to creditors. In addition, pursuant to the Companies Law, because ZIM has more than 50 employees, ZIM must display a copy of the notice published in
the daily Israeli newspapers in a prominent location in ZIM workplace, or deliver it to the ZIM employees’ committee, within three business days after the ICA merger proposal has been filed with the Companies Registrar.
Following the ZIM shareholders vote, ZIM must file a notice with the Companies Registrar regarding the approval of the merger by ZIM shareholders within three days after the date
on which ZIM shareholder approval is received, and Merger Sub must file a notice with the Companies Registrar regarding the approval of the merger by its sole shareholder within three days after the date on which such approval occurs. Under the
provisions of the Companies Law, the merger may not be completed until at least 30 days have elapsed following each of the shareholder approvals of ZIM and Merger Sub, and at least 50 days have elapsed from the filing of the ICA merger proposal
with the Companies Registrar.
Assuming ZIM shareholder approval has been obtained and all statutory procedures, requirements and wait periods have been complied with (and all the other conditions set forth in
the merger agreement have been waived or satisfied), the merger will become effective upon the issuance of a certificate of merger (as defined below) by the Companies Registrar, following a request to issue such certificate by ZIM and Merger Sub.
Special State Share Approval
The Minister of Finance and the Minister of Transport in the Government of Israel hold the Special State Share, the principal terms of which include:
(a) ZIM shall remain incorporated and registered in the State of Israel, with its headquarters and principal and registered office domiciled in Israel;
(b) subject to certain exceptions, ZIM must maintain a minimal fleet of 11 seaworthy vessels that are fully owned by ZIM, either directly or indirectly through its subsidiaries, at least
three of which must be capable of carrying general cargo. Subject to certain exceptions, any transfer of vessels in violation thereof shall be invalid unless approved in advance by the holder of the Special State Share pursuant to the mechanism set
forth in ZIM’s articles of association;
(c) at least a majority of the members of ZIM board, including its Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, must be Israeli citizens;
(d) the holder of the Special State Share must provide prior written consent for any holding or transfer or issuance of shares that confers possession of 35% or more of ZIM’s issued share
capital, or that provides control over ZIM, including as a result of a voting agreement;
(e) any transfer of ZIM ordinary shares that confers its owner with a holding of more than 24% but not more than 35% of ZIM’s issued share capital will require an advance notice to the State
of Israel which will include full details regarding the proposed transferor and transferee, the percentage of shares to be held by the transferee after the transfer and relevant details regarding the transaction, including voting agreements and
agreements for the appointment of directors (if any). If the State of Israel shall be of the opinion that the transfer of shares may possibly harm the security interests of the State of Israel or any of its vital interests, or that it has not
received the relevant information for the purpose of reaching its decision, the State of Israel shall be entitled to serve notice, within 30 days, that it objects to the transfer, giving reason for its objection. In such circumstances, the party
requesting the transfer may initiate proceedings in connection with this matter with the competent court, which will consider and rule on the matter;
(f) the holder of the Special State Share must consent in writing to any winding-up, merger or spin-off, except for certain mergers with ZIM subsidiaries that would not impact the Special
State Share or the minimal fleet criteria described above;
(g) ZIM must provide governance, operational and financial information to the holder of the Special State Share similar to information that it provides to its shareholders. In addition, ZIM
must provide the holder of the Special State Share with particular information related to Company’s compliance with the terms of the Special State Share and other information reasonably required to safeguard the State of Israel’s vital interests;
and
(h) any amendment, review or cancellation of the rights afforded to the State of Israel by the Special State Share must be approved in writing by the holder of the Special State Share prior
to its effectiveness.
The receipt of the approval to consummate the transactions, including the merger and the Special State Share Release, by the State of Israel pursuant to the Special State Share
(the “Special State Share Approval”) is a condition to the closing of the merger. In connection with the merger agreement, Parent entered into a binding memorandum of understanding with FIMI (the “FIMI framework agreement”), pursuant to which
Parent and FIMI have agreed to use their respective reasonable best efforts to obtain the Special State Share Approval and have further agreed to consummate the Special State Share Assumption (as defined below) in accordance with the terms of such
memorandum.
Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to certain limitations, Parent has agreed to use reasonable best efforts to obtain an irrevocable and perpetual release of ZIM and its
affiliates from all rights and obligations relating to the Special State Share (the “Special State Share Release”), which may be obtained pursuant to a transaction (the “Special State Share Assumption”) in which:
(a) Parent will, or will cause its subsidiaries (including ZIM and its subsidiaries) to, effective as of the effective time, in accordance with the FIMI framework agreement, (1) sell,
transfer, convey or assign at least 11 qualifying vessels to the qualifying Israeli partner and (2) sell, transfer, convey, assign or lease to, or otherwise provide to or arrange for, the qualifying Israeli partner such other assets, employees and
services as necessary to permit the Israeli partner to comply with the rights and obligations of the Special State Share;
(b) the qualifying Israeli partner will enter into, and Parent will use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Israeli partner to enter into, a binding assumption agreement or other
instrument of novation with the State of Israel (in each case in form and substance acceptable to the State of Israel), which will be conditioned upon the closing and effective as of the effective time, pursuant to which the qualifying Israeli
partner assumes and agrees to be bound by, and the State of Israel acknowledges such assumption of, the rights and obligations of the Special State Share;
(c) the articles of association of the qualifying Israeli partner will be amended to reflect the rights and obligations relating to the Special State Share, which rights and obligations will
be fully assumed by the qualifying Israeli partner, effective as of the effective time; and
(d) the terms of the Special State Share, ZIM articles of association and any related contract will be amended, modified or irrevocably and perpetually waived as necessary to effect the
Special State Share Release (including the Special State Share Approval with respect thereto) effective as of the effective time.
The merger agreement includes certain specified actions required in furtherance of, and limitations on, the parties’ respective reasonable best efforts to obtain the Special
State Share Approval and consummate the Special State Share Assumption. For additional information, see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Reasonable Best Efforts.”
Other Regulatory Approvals
In addition to compliance with the Companies Law and obtaining the Special State Share Approval discussed above, the transactions will be subject to merger control clearance
under the Israeli Economic Competition Law 5748-1988. Further, the change of control of ZIM will require the approval of the Israeli Ministry of Defense due to contractual relationships with the Ministry of Defense. The merger is also subject to
clearance or approval by regulatory authorities in approximately forty other jurisdictions. The merger cannot be completed until Parent and ZIM obtain clearance to consummate the merger or applicable waiting periods have expired or been terminated
in each applicable jurisdiction. Parent and ZIM, in consultation and cooperation with each other, will file notifications, as required with regulatory authorities, as promptly as practicable after the date of the merger agreement. The relevant
regulatory authorities could take such actions under the applicable regulatory laws as they deem necessary or desirable, including seeking divestiture of assets of the parties, requiring the parties to license or hold separate assets or terminate
existing relationships and contractual rights. Under the merger agreement, Parent will not be required to, and ZIM will not be permitted to, take or agree to take any such actions that, individually in the aggregate, would amount to a regulatory
burdensome condition.
Although Parent and ZIM currently believe they should be able to obtain the required regulatory approvals described above in a timely manner, they cannot be certain when or if it
will be obtained. Parent and ZIM have agreed to use their respective reasonable best efforts to obtain the required regulatory approvals and to take certain actions, subject to certain limitations. For additional information, see the section
entitled “The Merger Agreement—Reasonable Best Efforts.”
Neither Parent nor ZIM is aware of any material governmental approvals or actions that are required for completion of the merger other than as described above. It is presently
contemplated that if any such additional material governmental approvals or actions are required, those approvals or actions will be sought.
Interests of ZIM Directors and Senior Management in the Merger
In considering the recommendation of the ZIM board to vote in favor of the approval of the merger agreement, ZIM shareholders should be aware that ZIM’s directors and senior
management have interests in the merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of ZIM shareholders generally. The ZIM board was aware of these interests and considered them, among other matters, in evaluating and negotiating
the merger agreement, in reaching its decision to approve the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (including the merger), and in recommending to ZIM shareholders that the merger agreement be approved. Such
interests are described below.
One-Time Cash Retention Bonus
Subject to the approval of the retention bonus proposal, each of (a) 13 office holders of ZIM (but excluding the directors of ZIM) and (b) ZIM’s Chief Executive Officer
and President, will be entitled to a one time cash retention bonus of up to 12 monthly base salaries of such office holder, as shall be determined by ZIM’s compensation committee and board of directors, to be paid upon the earlier of (i) the
closing of the merger, or (ii) the lapse of 15 months as of the date of the signing of the merger agreement.
Treatment of ZIM Equity Awards
The merger agreement provides that, at the effective time, each ZIM option granted under the ZIM equity plans that is outstanding and unexercised, whether vested or unvested,
will be cancelled, and the holders thereof will be entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the exercise price (as determined in accordance with the formula in the merger agreement), less applicable tax withholdings. Each ZIM option with
a per share exercise price that is equal to or greater than the merger consideration will be cancelled for no consideration.
Indemnification and Insurance
Pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement, ZIM’s non-employee directors and senior management will be entitled to certain ongoing indemnification and coverage under
directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies following the merger. Such indemnification and insurance coverage is further described in the section entitled “The Merger—Indemnification and Insurance”.
Employee Compensation and Benefits Following the Effective Time
The merger agreement provides that Parent will, or will cause the surviving company to, provide each continuing employee with certain compensation and benefits during the period
commencing at the effective time and ending on the first anniversary of the closing date, as described below in the section captioned “The Merger Agreement—Employee Matters”.
As of the date of this proxy statement, none of ZIM’s senior management members has entered into any agreement or arrangement with Parent or any of its affiliates regarding the
potential terms of their individual employment agreements or the right to participate in the equity of Parent or one or more of its affiliates following the consummation of the merger. Prior to or following the effective time, however,
certain senior management members may have discussions, or may enter into agreements or arrangements with, Parent or its affiliates regarding employment with, or the right to participate in the equity of, Parent or one or more of its affiliates.
Indemnification and Insurance
For seven (7) years following the effective time, the surviving company will, and Parent will cause the surviving company to, indemnify and hold harmless all current or former
directors and officers of ZIM and its subsidiaries (the “indemnified parties”) against all claims, liabilities, judgments, fines, fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements) incurred in connection with any
proceeding, including with respect to matters existing or occurring at or prior to the effective time (including the merger agreement and the transactions), arising out of or pertaining to the fact that such indemnified party is or was, at or prior
to the effective time, a director or officer of ZIM or any of its subsidiaries, or served at the request of ZIM or any of its subsidiaries as a director or officer of another person, in each case to the fullest extent permitted under applicable
law. The merger agreement further provides that, in the event of any such proceeding, each indemnified party will be entitled to advancement of expenses from the surviving company within ten business days after the surviving company receives a
request therefor, subject to the indemnified party providing an undertaking to repay such advances if and only to the extent required by applicable law, the surviving company’s organizational documents or any applicable indemnification agreement,
and if it is ultimately determined by final non-appealable adjudication that such person is not entitled to indemnification. In addition, Parent has agreed not to (and to cause the surviving company not to) settle or compromise or consent to the
entry of any judgment or otherwise seek termination of any such proceeding unless the settlement, compromise, consent or termination includes a customary release of the Indemnified Parties from all liability arising out of such matter.
For seven (7) years following the effective time, the surviving company will, and Parent will cause the surviving company to, maintain in effect the provisions in (i) ZIM’s
articles of association and (ii) any indemnification agreement between ZIM or a Company subsidiary and any indemnified party as in existence on the date of the merger agreement (except to the extent an indemnification agreement provides for earlier
termination), in each case regarding elimination of liability, indemnification and advancement of expenses, and no such provision may be amended, modified or repealed in a manner that would adversely affect the rights or protections of any
indemnified party with respect to acts or omissions occurring or alleged to have occurred at or prior to the effective time (including in connection with the approval of the merger agreement and the consummation of the transactions).
The merger agreement also provides that, at or prior to the effective time, ZIM will purchase a seven (7)-year prepaid directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and fiduciary
liability insurance “tail” policy providing coverage retentions, limits and other material terms substantially equivalent to ZIM’s current policies with respect to matters arising at or prior to the effective time, subject to an aggregate premium
cap of 300% of the last aggregate annual premium paid by ZIM for such policy, and if the cost would otherwise exceed that amount, ZIM may purchase only as much coverage as is available for an aggregate premium not in excess of that amount. After
the effective time, Parent will cause the surviving company to maintain such “tail” policy in full force and effect for its seven (7)-year term.
Delisting and Deregistration of ZIM Ordinary Shares
Each of the parties will cooperate in taking, or causing to be taken, all actions necessary to delist the ZIM ordinary shares from NYSE and terminate its registration under the
Exchange Act, provided that such delisting and termination will not be effective until at or after the effective time.
Financing of the Merger
Parent expects to have access at the closing to all funds necessary to pay the merger consideration and consummate the transactions. Parent’s obligations under the merger
agreement are not contingent on obtaining financing or the availability of financing.
Tax Treatment of the Merger
Israeli Tax Treatment
For Israeli tax purposes, the merger will generally be treated as a taxable transaction. For a more detailed description of the Israeli tax consequences of the merger to holders
of ZIM ordinary shares, please see the section entitled “Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger”.
Israeli Tax Rulings
In the coming weeks, ZIM will cause its Israeli counsels to prepare, in full coordination with Parent, applications for the options tax ruling and the withholding tax ruling and
expects them to be filed with the ITA as soon as practicable.
There can be no assurance that such tax rulings will be granted before the closing of the merger, if at all, or that, if obtained, such tax rulings will be granted under the
conditions requested by ZIM. For further details concerning the substance of these rulings, please see the section entitled “The Merger Agreement—Israeli Tax Rulings.”
U.S. Federal Income Tax Treatment
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the merger will generally be a taxable transaction. For a more detailed description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the
merger to holders of ZIM ordinary shares, please see the section entitled “Material U.S. Tax Income Consequences of the Merger”.
The following summary describes certain material provisions of the merger agreement entered into by Parent, Merger Sub and ZIM, a copy of which is attached
hereto as Annex A and is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. This summary does not purport to be complete and may not contain all of the information about the merger agreement that is important to you. You are encouraged to
read the merger agreement carefully and in its entirety because it is the legal document that governs the merger. The description of the merger agreement in this section and elsewhere in this proxy statement is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the complete text of the merger agreement, a copy of which is attached to this proxy statement as Annex A and incorporated by reference herein. The legal rights and obligations of the parties are governed by the specific
language of the merger agreement and not this summary.
The representations, warranties, covenants and agreements described below and included in the merger agreement (1) were made only for purposes of the merger agreement; (2) were
made solely for the benefit of the parties to the merger agreement; and (3) may be subject to important qualifications, limitations and supplemental information agreed to by the parties in connection with negotiating the terms of the merger
agreement. The representations and warranties may also be subject to a contractual standard of materiality different from those generally applicable to reports and documents filed with the SEC and the ISA (or furnished by ZIM to the SEC) and in some
cases were qualified by confidential matters disclosed to Parent and Merger Sub by ZIM in connection with the merger agreement. In addition, the representations and warranties may have been included in the merger agreement for the purpose of
allocating contractual risk between ZIM, Parent and Merger Sub rather than to establish matters as facts, and may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to such parties that differ from those applicable to investors. Shareholders should
not rely on the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements or any descriptions thereof as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of ZIM, Parent or Merger Sub or any of their respective affiliates or businesses.
Moreover, information concerning the subject matter of the representations and warranties may change after the date of the Merger Agreement. In addition, you should not rely on the covenants in the merger agreement as actual limitations on the
respective businesses of ZIM, Parent and Merger Sub because the parties may take certain actions that are either expressly permitted in the confidential company disclosure letter to the merger agreement or as otherwise consented to by the
appropriate party, which consent may be given without prior notice to the public. The merger agreement is described below, and included as Annex A, only to provide you with information regarding its terms and conditions, and not to provide
any other factual information regarding ZIM, Parent, Merger Sub or their respective businesses. Accordingly, the representations, warranties, covenants and other agreements in the merger agreement should not be read alone, and you should read the
information provided elsewhere in this document and in our filings with the SEC and the ISA regarding the Company and our business, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with
the SEC on March 9, 2026, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Effects of the Merger
Pursuant to the merger agreement, and upon the terms and subject to the conditions therein, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Companies Law, Merger Sub (as the target company
(Chevrat Ha’Ya’ad) in the merger) will merge with and into ZIM (as the absorbing company (HaChevra Ha’Koletet) in the merger), and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. ZIM will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent and will
continue as the surviving company in the merger.
At the effective time, by virtue of, and simultaneously with, the merger and without any further action on the part of Parent, Merger Sub, ZIM or any ZIM shareholder, (a) Merger Sub will be merged
with and into ZIM, the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease and ZIM will continue as the surviving company, (b) all the properties, rights, privileges, immunities, powers and franchises of ZIM and Merger Sub will vest in the surviving
company, (c) all debts, liabilities, obligations, restrictions and duties of ZIM and Merger Sub will become the debts, liabilities, obligations, restrictions and duties of the surviving company and (d) all the rights, privileges, immunities, powers
and franchises of ZIM (as the surviving company) will continue unaffected by the merger in accordance with the Companies Law.
Directors and Officers; Articles of Association
At the effective time, the directors of Merger Sub as of immediately prior to the effective time will, as of the effective time, be appointed to serve as directors of the surviving company, until
the earlier of their death, resignation or removal or until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified in accordance with the surviving company’s articles of association and applicable law.
At the effective time, the articles of association of Merger Sub in effect immediately prior to and at the effective time, will be the articles of association of the surviving company, until such
articles of association are amended.
Completion and Effectiveness of the Merger
The closing of the merger will take place by means of a virtual closing through electronic exchange of documents and signatures at 10:00 a.m., Israel Time, on the fifth business day after the
satisfaction or, to the extent permitted by applicable law, waiver of the last of the conditions set forth in the merger agreement to be satisfied or waived (other than any such conditions that by their nature are to be satisfied at the closing,
but subject to the satisfaction or, to the extent permitted by applicable law, waiver of such conditions at the closing), unless another date, place or time is agreed to in writing by ZIM and Parent.
As soon as practicable after the determination of the date on which the closing is to take place, each of ZIM and Merger Sub will (and Parent will cause Merger Sub to), in coordination with each
other, deliver to the Companies Registrar of the Israeli Corporations Authority a notice of the proposed date on which the Companies Registrar is requested to issue a certificate evidencing the merger in accordance with Section 323(5) of the
Companies Law. The merger will become effective upon the issuance by the Companies Registrar of the certificate of merger in accordance with Section 323(5) of the Companies Law (such time at which the merger becomes effective, the “effective
time”).
Merger Consideration
At the effective time, by virtue of the merger and without any action on the part the parties to the merger agreement or their respective shareholders:
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each ZIM ordinary share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time (other than any deemed cancelled shares or converted shares (each as defined below)) will be deemed to have been
transferred to Parent in exchange for the right to receive $35.00 per share in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes;
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each ZIM ordinary share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that is a dormant share (minyah redumah) owned or held in treasury by ZIM or is owned by Parent or Merger Sub, if any, (the
“deemed cancelled shares”) will be cancelled and retired without any conversion or consideration paid in respect thereof and will not entitle the holder thereof to any consideration pursuant to the merger agreement; and
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each ZIM ordinary share issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time that is owned or held by any wholly owned subsidiary of ZIM or Parent (other than Merger Sub) will be converted into such
number of shares of the surviving company such that the ownership percentage of any such subsidiary in the surviving company will equal the ownership percentage of such subsidiary in ZIM immediately prior to the effective time (the
“converted shares” and, together with the deemed cancelled shares, the “excluded shares”).
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From and after the effective time, all ZIM ordinary shares (other than any excluded shares) will be held by Parent as a result of the merger, and each holder of a valid certificate or certificates
which immediately prior to the effective time represented any such ZIM ordinary shares or evidenced by way of book-entry in the register of shareholders of ZIM immediately prior to the effective time will cease to have any rights with respect to
such ZIM ordinary shares, except the right to receive the applicable merger consideration upon the surrender of such ZIM ordinary shares in accordance with the merger agreement.
Exchange of ZIM Ordinary Shares for the Merger Consideration
Prior to the effective time (but in no event later than five business days prior to the closing date), Parent will designate a bank or trust company reasonably acceptable to ZIM to act as the
exchange agent in connection with the merger and an Israeli information and withholding agent reasonably acceptable to ZIM to assist in obtaining and reviewing any requisite residency certificates and/or other declarations or supporting documents
for Israeli tax withholding purposes and/or valid tax certificates, as applicable. The exchange agent will also act as the agent for the ZIM shareholders for the purpose of receiving and holding their certificates and book-entry shares and will
obtain no rights or interests in the shares.
Prior to the effective time, Parent will make, or cause to be made, a deposit by wire transfer of cash in immediately available funds to the exchange agent in an amount sufficient to pay the
aggregate merger consideration (the “exchange fund”), for the sole benefit of, and for further distribution to, the holders of ZIM ordinary shares (and, in the case of section 102 shares, for further distribution to the 102 trustee).
Tax Documentation
Promptly after the effective time (and in any event within five business days after the effective time), Parent shall cause the exchange agent to mail to each holder of record of a ZIM ordinary
share certificate or ZIM book-entry share and whose ZIM ordinary shares were converted into the right to receive the merger consideration a declaration and/or instructions regarding a valid tax certificate (or such other forms as are required
under any applicable tax law) in which the beneficial owner (and, if the beneficial owner is not the registered owner, the owner) of a ZIM ordinary share provides certain information necessary for Parent or the exchange agent or the Israeli
withholding agent, as applicable, to determine whether any amounts need to be withheld from the consideration payable to such beneficial owner (and, if the beneficial owner is not the registered owner, the owner) hereunder pursuant to the terms
of applicable tax law and the withholding tax ruling. See “Material Israeli Tax Income Consequences of the Merger” and “Material U.S. Tax Income Consequences of the Merger.”
Stock Certificates
Promptly after the effective time (and in any event within five business days after the effective time), Parent will cause the exchange agent to mail to each holder of record of a ZIM ordinary
share certificate and whose ZIM ordinary shares were converted pursuant to the merger agreement into the right to receive the merger consideration (A) a letter of transmittal, which will specify that delivery will be effected, and risk of loss and
title to the certificates will pass, only upon delivery of the ZIM ordinary share certificates (or affidavits of loss) to the exchange agent and (B) instructions for effecting the surrender of the ZIM ordinary share certificates (or affidavits of
loss) in exchange for payment of the merger consideration.
Book-Entry Shares
No holder of record of a ZIM book-entry share will be required to deliver a letter of transmittal or surrender such ZIM book-entry shares to the exchange agent, and instead, upon receipt of an
“agent’s message” by the exchange agent (together with such other evidence, if any, of transfer and documentation as the exchange agent may reasonably request), the holder of such ZIM book-entry share will be entitled to receive the applicable
merger consideration pursuant to the provisions of the merger agreement, as soon as reasonably practicable, and in any event within five business days (subject to the withholding delay contemplated by the merger agreement) following the later to
occur of (x) the effective time and (y) the exchange agent’s receipt of a declaration for tax withholding purposes (including all required supporting documentation) and/or a valid tax certificate (or such other forms as are required under any
applicable tax law), as and if applicable, or after withholding has been made from such merger consideration in accordance with the merger agreement.
No Interest
No interest will be paid or will accrue on any portion of the merger consideration payable upon surrender of any ZIM ordinary share certificate or in respect of any ZIM book-entry share.
Termination of Rights
At the effective time, the share transfer books or register of shareholders of ZIM will be closed and thereafter there will be no further registration of transfers of ZIM ordinary shares on the
records of ZIM. Until surrendered, each ZIM ordinary share certificate and ZIM book-entry share will be deemed at any time after the effective time to represent only the right to receive the applicable merger consideration. If, after the effective
time, ZIM ordinary share certificates or ZIM book-entry shares are presented to Parent for any reason, they will be cancelled and exchanged as provided in the merger agreement.
Treatment of ZIM Equity Awards
At the effective time, each ZIM option granted under the ZIM equity plans that is outstanding and unexercised, whether vested or unvested, will be cancelled, and the holders thereof will be
entitled to receive the merger consideration net of the exercise price (as determined in accordance with the formula in the merger agreement), less applicable tax withholdings. Each ZIM option with a per share exercise price that is equal to or
greater than the merger consideration will be cancelled for no consideration.
Representations and Warranties
The merger agreement contains representations and warranties of ZIM, Parent and Merger Sub.
Certain of the representations and warranties in the merger agreement made by ZIM are qualified as to “materiality” or “company material adverse effect.” For purposes of the merger agreement,
“company material adverse effect” means any change, effect, development, circumstance, condition, state of facts, event or occurrence that, individually or in the aggregate, (x) would materially adversely affect the business, financial condition or
results of operations of ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (y) would, or would reasonably be expected to, prevent or materially impair or materially delay the performance by ZIM of its obligations under the merger agreement or the
consummation by ZIM of the merger, excluding, in the case of clause (x), any such effect to the extent directly or indirectly resulting from, relating to or arising out of:
(a) changes in general economic, political, regulatory or legislative conditions or the financial, securities, credit or other capital markets (including changes in interest or currency
exchange rates, tariffs or trade wars, commodity prices or raw material prices), any stoppage or shutdown of any activity by the U.S. or Israeli government or any other government in any jurisdiction in which ZIM operates its business or any
default by the U.S. or Israeli government or by any other governmental entity in any jurisdiction in which ZIM operates its business;
(b) changes generally affecting the industry in which ZIM and its subsidiaries operate;
(c) geopolitical conditions, acts of war and/or other similar hostilities, in each case including any outbreak or escalation thereof (whether or not declared), as well as sabotage or
terrorism (including cyber terrorism);
(d) any hurricane, tornado, tsunami, flood, volcanic eruption, earthquake, nuclear incident, pandemic, epidemic, plague, disease outbreak, quarantine restrictions, other outbreak or
illness or public health event (whether human or animal), or other natural or man-made disaster;
(e) changes in IFRS or applicable law (or official or common interpretation or enforcement thereof);
(f) changes in the market price or trading volume of ZIM shares or the credit rating of ZIM (provided that any effect underlying or that contributed to such changes may, to the extent not
excluded under another clause in this definition, be taken into account in determining whether a company material adverse effect has occurred or would reasonably be expected to occur);
(g) the failure of ZIM its subsidiaries to meet internal, published or analysts’ expectations or projections, performance measures, operating statistics, budgets, guidance, estimates, or
revenue, earnings or other financial or operating metric predictions (provided that an effect underlying or that contributed to such failure may, to the extent not excluded under another clause in this definition, be taken into account in
determining whether a company material adverse effect has occurred or would reasonably be expected to occur);
(h) the negotiation, execution, announcement, pendency or consummation of the transactions (including the Merger), including any litigation arising therefrom (including any litigation
arising from allegations of a breach of duty or violation of applicable law), including the announcement, pendency or consummation of the transactions (including as resulting from the identity of Parent or its subsidiaries), and including the
impact thereof on relationships, contractual or otherwise, with any governmental entity or any customers, suppliers, distributors, licensors, licensees, partners, shareholders, financing sources or employees of ZIM or its subsidiaries; provided
that this clause (h) shall not apply with respect to references to a company material adverse effect in the representations and warranties set forth in the government consents and no violations representation and in certain employment-related
representations insofar as the purpose of which is to address the consequences resulting from the execution, delivery and performance of the merger agreement by ZIM or the consummation of the transactions, including the merger (and in the accuracy
of representation closing conditions to the extent related to such representations and warranties); and
(i) any action taken by ZIM or its subsidiaries (A) at the written direction of Parent or (B) as required by the terms of the merger agreement (other than the interim operating covenant,
except to the extent Parent unreasonably withholds, conditions or delays consent to an exception to such action pursuant to the interim operating covenant).
Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case of each of clauses (a) through (e), any such effect that has a disproportionate effect on ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, relative to other
participants engaged in the industries in which ZIM and its subsidiaries operate may, to the extent not excluded under another clause in this definition, be taken into account in determining whether a company material adverse effect has occurred or
would reasonably be expected to occur, but only to the extent of the incremental disproportionate effect thereof.
The merger agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the parties. These include representations and warranties of ZIM with respect to:
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due organization, valid existence, good standing (to the extent applicable) and authority and qualification to conduct business with respect to ZIM and its subsidiaries;
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The capital structure of ZIM and its subsidiaries;
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ZIM’s corporate power and authority to enter into and perform the merger agreement;
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requisite shareholder approval;
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due execution, delivery and enforceability of the merger agreement;
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required consents and approvals in connection with the merger agreement and performance thereof;
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the absence of any conflict, violation or material alteration of any organizations documents, existing contracts or applicable laws to ZIM or its subsidiaries due to the performance of the merger agreement;
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securities reports and filings in connection with the merger agreement and performance thereof;
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ZIM’s and its subsidiaries’ financial statements;
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ZIM’s and its subsidiaries’ internal controls and procedures;
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the absence of undisclosed liabilities;
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the absence of certain changes or events;
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ZIM’s and its subsidiaries’ compliance with applicable laws;
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ZIM’s and its subsidiaries’ possession of necessary permits;
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employee benefit plans;
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absence of litigation, orders;
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intellectual property matters;
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privacy, data protection, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence matters;
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information supplied for SEC filings;
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opinions of financial advisors;
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related party transactions;
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finders and brokers; and
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ZIM’s vessels and maritime matters.
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The merger agreement also contains customary representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub, including with respect to:
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due organization, good standing and authority and qualification to conduct business with respect to Parent and Merger Sub;
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Parent’s and Merger Sub’s corporate authority to enter into to the merger agreement;
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due execution, delivery and enforceability of the merger agreement;
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required consents and approvals in connection with the merger agreement;
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the absence of any conflict, violation or material alteration of any organizations documents, existing contracts or applicable laws due to the performance of the merger agreement;
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compliance with applicable laws;
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absence of litigation, orders;
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Merger Sub activity; and
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Certain of the representations and warranties in the merger agreement made by Parent and Merger Sub are qualified as to “materiality” or “parent material adverse effect.” For purposes of the merger
agreement, “parent material adverse effect” means any effect that, individually or in the aggregate, would, or would reasonably be expected to, prevent or materially impair or materially delay the performance by Parent or Merger Sub of their
respective obligations under the merger agreement or the consummation by Parent or Merger Sub of the merger.
The representations, warranties and covenants of each party in the merger agreement were made only for the purposes of, and were and are solely for the benefit of the parties to, the merger
agreement, may be subject to limitations agreed upon by the contracting parties, including being qualified by confidential disclosure letters made for the purposes of allocating contractual risk between the parties to the merger agreement instead
of establishing these matters as facts, and may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to the contracting parties that differ from those applicable to holders of ZIM ordinary shares. Accordingly, the representations and warranties may
not describe the actual state of affairs as of February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement), the effective time or at any other time, and holders of ZIM ordinary shares should not rely on them as statements of fact.
Conduct of Business Pending Completion of the Merger
Restrictions on ZIM’s Operations.
The merger agreement provides for certain restrictions on ZIM’s and its subsidiaries’ activities between February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) and until the earlier of the effective
time or the date (if any) the merger agreement is validly terminated in accordance with its terms.
In general, except as set forth in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter, as specifically contemplated or required by the merger agreement, as required by applicable law, or as consented to in
writing by Parent (which consent may not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), ZIM will, and will cause each of its subsidiaries to, use reasonable best efforts to (i) conduct its business in the ordinary course of business in all
material respects and (ii) preserve intact in all material respects its assets, properties, goodwill and material contracts and its material relationships with third parties, key employees and Governmental Entities.
In addition, except as set forth in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter, as specifically contemplated or required by the merger agreement, as required by applicable law, or as consented to in
writing by Parent (which consent may not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), ZIM must not, and must cause each of its subsidiaries not to, directly or indirectly:
(a) amend, modify, waive, rescind, change or otherwise restate ZIM’s or any of its subsidiaries’ articles of association, certificate of incorporation, bylaws or equivalent organizational
documents, including any terms of the Special State Share, except, in the case of any subsidiary, amendments that are not related to the Special State Share and which would not reasonably be expected to, directly or indirectly, have, individually
or in the aggregate, a company material adverse effect;
(b) authorize, declare, set aside, make or pay any dividends on or make any distribution with respect to its outstanding share capital or other equity interests (whether in cash, assets,
shares or other securities of the Company or any Company Subsidiary) (other than dividends or distributions made (x) by ZIM in accordance with the dividend policy set forth in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter or (y) by any wholly owned ZIM
subsidiary to ZIM or any wholly owned subsidiary) or enter into any agreement and arrangement with respect to voting or registration, or file any registration statement with the SEC with respect to any of its capital stock or other equity interests
or securities;
(c) split, combine, subdivide, reduce or reclassify any shares of its share capital or other equity interests, or redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire any of its share capital or other
equity interests, or issue or authorize the issuance of any of its share capital or other equity interests or any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for, shares of its share capital or other equity interests, except for
the acceptance of ZIM ordinary shares as payment of the exercise price of ZIM options or for withholding taxes in respect of ZIM options;
(d) issue, deliver, grant, sell, pledge, dispose of or encumber, or authorize the issuance, delivery, grant, sale, pledge, disposition or encumbrance of, any shares in the share capital,
voting securities or other equity interest in ZIM or any of its subsidiaries or any securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for any such shares, voting securities or equity interest, or any rights, warrants or options to acquire
any such shares, voting securities or equity interest or any “phantom” share, “phantom” share rights, share appreciation rights or share based performance units or take any action to cause to be exercisable or vested any otherwise unexercisable or
unvested ZIM options (except as otherwise required by the express terms of the merger agreement and any ZIM options as of the date of the merger agreement), other than (A) issuances of ZIM ordinary shares in respect of any exercise of ZIM options
outstanding on the date of the merger agreement or the vesting or settlement of ZIM options outstanding on the date of the merger agreement, in all cases in accordance with their respective terms as of the date of the merger agreement, (B) sales of
ZIM ordinary shares pursuant to the exercise of ZIM options if necessary to effectuate an optionee direction upon exercise or pursuant to the settlement of ZIM options in order to satisfy tax withholding obligations, in each case in accordance with
the terms of such ZIM options as in effect on the date of the merger agreement, or (C) issuances of equity securities by any wholly owned ZIM subsidiary to any other wholly owned ZIM subsidiary;
(e) except (i) as required by the terms of a ZIM benefit plan in effect as of the date of the merger agreement or
entered into after the date of the merger agreement not in contravention of this the merger agreement or (ii) as required in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement of ZIM or any ZIM subsidiary in effect as of the date of
the merger agreement, (A) grant, pay or increase any severance, change in control, retention or termination pay or equity-based compensation to any Participant, (B) establish, adopt, enter into, extend, materially amend or terminate any ZIM
benefit plan (or any arrangement that would constitute a ZIM benefit plan, if it were in existence on the date of the merger agreement) or collective bargaining agreement, other than the extension of the current collective bargaining agreement
with ZIM’s employees in Israel; provided that any such extension shall (1) be on terms, taken as a whole, no less favorable to ZIM than the terms set forth in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter and (2) not increase the aggregate financial
obligations of ZIM beyond those reflected in the terms set forth in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter, (C) increase the compensation or benefits of any Participant, except for the greater of (x) increases within the framework set forth in
ZIM’s 2026 or 2027 annual budget, as applicable, and (y) increases to an employee’s base salary that do not exceed an annualized raise rate equal to the Israeli consumer price index for the preceding year, which in each case shall not be deemed a
material amendment for purposes of clause (B), (D) take any action to accelerate the vesting, funding or payment of any compensation or benefits under any ZIM benefit plan, (E) grant any ZIM benefit plan participant right to reimbursement,
indemnification or payment for any taxes, including any taxes incurred under Section 409A or Section 4999 of the U.S. tax code, (F) except for a termination resulting from a resignation of employment, terminate the employment of any employee with
an annual base salary of $200,000 or above, other than for cause, and (G) except for the replacement of an employee who resigned or was terminated (not in breach of the merger agreement) with an employee of equivalent title and responsibilities,
salary and benefits substantially similar to those of the employee being replaced, hire, engage or promote any director, officer, employee or an individual service provider with an annual base salary of $200,000 or above;
(f) other than as set forth in ZIM’s 2026 or 2027 annual budget, as applicable, acquire (including by merger, consolidation or acquisition of stock or assets or any other means) or authorize
or announce an intention to so acquire, or enter into any agreements providing for any acquisitions of, any material assets, properties, vessels or equity interests in any Person or any business or division thereof, or otherwise engage in any
mergers, consolidations or business combinations, except for transactions solely between ZIM and a wholly owned ZIM subsidiary or solely between wholly owned ZIM subsidiaries;
(g) liquidate (completely or partially), dissolve, restructure, recapitalize or effect any other reorganization (including any restructuring, recapitalization or reorganization between or
among any of ZIM and/or the ZIM subsidiaries) or adopt any plan or resolution providing for any of the foregoing;
(h) make or forgive any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other Person, except for (A) loans solely among ZIM and its wholly owned subsidiaries or solely
among wholly owned ZIM subsidiaries, (B) advances for reimbursable employee expenses, (C) investments in other persons not to exceed $500,000 in the aggregate, (D) follow-on investments in the entities listed in ZIM’s confidential disclosure letter
not to exceed $2,500,000 per entity and $15,000,000 in the aggregate, or (E) extensions of credit to customers and vendors in the ordinary course of business;
(i) sell, lease, license, encumber, assign, abandon, permit to lapse, transfer, exchange, swap or otherwise dispose of, or subject to any lien (other than permitted liens), any ZIM vessel or
any of its material properties, rights or assets (including shares in the capital of ZIM or the ZIM subsidiaries), except (A) dispositions of obsolete or worthless equipment, (B) in the ordinary course of business or (C) pursuant to sales, leases,
licenses, transfers or exchanges of assets solely among ZIM and its subsidiaries or solely among ZIM subsidiaries;
(j) make any capital expenditures that are in the aggregate greater than 110% of the capital expenditure amounts set forth in ZIM’s 2026 or 2027 budget, as applicable, or enter into
agreements or arrangements providing for capital expenditures in the foregoing amounts, except to the extent reasonably necessary for emergency repairs or to maintain the safety and integrity of ZIM’s assets or operations;
(k) make any material changes to the cash management or investment policies of ZIM, including with respect to the maturity profile of ZIM’s fixed income portfolio held for investment
purposes;
(l) (A) enter into any contract that would, if entered into prior to the date of the merger agreement, be a material contract outside of the ordinary course of business, (B) materially
amend, modify, extend or terminate (other than renewals or non-renewals occurring in the ordinary course of business) any material contract or (C) waive or release any material rights or claims thereunder or assign the same to a third party (other
than ZIM or any wholly owned ZIM subsidiary);
(m) commence (other than any collection action in the ordinary course of business), waive, release, assign, compromise or settle any proceeding (whether or not ZIM or any ZIM subsidiary is a
plaintiff or defendant), other than the compromise or settlement of any claim, litigation or proceeding that is not brought by Governmental Entities and that: (A) is for an amount not to exceed, for any such compromise or settlement individually,
$1,000,000, or in the aggregate, $4,000,000, and (B) does not impose any material injunctive or non-monetary relief on ZIM and the ZIM subsidiaries and does not involve the admission of material wrongdoing by ZIM, any ZIM subsidiary or any of their
respective officers or directors;
(n) change in any material respect any financial accounting policies, practices, principles or procedures or any of its methods of reporting income, deductions or other material items for
financial accounting purposes, except as required by IFRS or applicable Law;
(o) (A) other than in the ordinary course of business, make or change any material tax election, (B) change any material method of tax accounting, (C) file any material amended tax return,
(D) enter into any closing agreement or seek any ruling from any governmental entity, in each case with respect to material amounts of taxes, (E) surrender any right to claim a material tax refund or (F) waive or extend the statute of limitations
with respect to any material tax or material tax return;
(p) (A) incur, assume, endorse, guarantee or otherwise become liable for any Indebtedness for borrowed money or issue or sell any debt securities or calls, options, warrants or other rights
to acquire any debt securities (directly, contingently or otherwise), except for (1) draw-downs on credit facilities existing as of the date of the merger agreement and renewals or refinancings of any loans or credit facilities existing as of the
date of the merger agreement that do not increase the aggregate principal amount thereof by more than $50,000,000 or (2) the incurrence and repayment of any Indebtedness solely among ZIM and its wholly owned subsidiaries or solely among its wholly
owned subsidiaries or (B) other than in the ordinary course of business, incur, assume, endorse, guarantee, issue, sell or otherwise become liable for any derivative financial instruments or arrangements (including swaps, caps, floors, futures,
forward contracts and option agreements);
(q) terminate, abandon, withdraw or modify or waive in any material respect any right under any material permit or material environmental permit;
(r) adopt or otherwise implement any shareholder rights plan, “poison-pill” or other comparable agreement; or
(s) agree or authorize, in writing or otherwise, to take any of the foregoing actions.
The merger agreement provides that ZIM’s failure to take any action prohibited by the preceding clauses (a) through (s) will not be a breach of the second paragraph of this subsection.
Restrictions on Parent’s Operations.
The merger agreement provides for certain restrictions on Parent’s and its subsidiaries’ activities between February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) and until the earlier of the
effective time or the date (if any) on which the merger agreement is validly terminated in accordance with its terms. Each of Parent and Merger Sub agreed that it will not, and will cause its respective affiliates not to, take any actions
(including any actions with respect to a third party), which are intended to or would reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, result in any of the closing conditions being prevented or materially delayed from being satisfied or
have a parent material adverse effect.
ZIM Special General Meeting and Board Recommendation
The merger agreement requires ZIM to duly call, give notice of, convene and hold a special general meeting of its shareholders for the purpose of seeking approval of the merger proposal as soon as
reasonably practicable after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement), submit such proposals to its shareholders at such meeting, and recommend to ZIM shareholders that they vote in favor of the merger proposal. The calling and giving
notice of the special general meeting are being carried out concurrently with the filing of this proxy statement with the SEC.
The ZIM board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the merger proposal. Unless a change of recommendation has been made as permitted by the terms of the merger agreement, ZIM will use its reasonable
best efforts to solicit from the ZIM shareholders proxies in favor of the approval of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger.
Even if a change of recommendation has been made pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement, unless the merger agreement has been terminated in accordance with its terms, the ZIM special general
meeting will be convened and the merger agreement will be submitted to the ZIM shareholders for approval at the ZIM special general meeting, and all other obligations of the parties under the merger agreement will continue in full force and effect.
The ZIM board unanimously recommends a vote “FOR” the merger proposal.
No Solicitation of Other Offers by ZIM
Under the terms of the merger agreement, subject to certain exceptions described below, ZIM has agreed that, from February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) until the earlier of the
effective time or the date (if any) on which the merger agreement is validly terminated pursuant to the merger agreement, ZIM will not and will cause its subsidiaries, and its and their respective officers and directors not to, and ZIM will use
reasonable best efforts to cause its and its subsidiaries’ other representatives not to, directly or indirectly:
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(a)
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solicit, initiate, engage in, knowingly encourage or knowingly facilitate any inquiry, proposal, discussion, offer or request that constitutes, or would reasonably be expected to lead to, an acquisition
proposal;
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(b)
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furnish or cause to be furnished to any person or “group” (as such term is defined in Section 13(d) under the Exchange Act) any non-public information with respect to any inquiries or the making of any proposal
that constitutes, or would be reasonably expected to result in, an acquisition proposal;
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(c)
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enter into, continue or maintain discussions or negotiations with any person (other than Parent, Merger Sub or any other subsidiary of Parent) with respect to an inquiry or an acquisition proposal (other than
informing persons of the non-solicitation provisions of the merger agreement);
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(d)
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approve, endorse, recommend, agree to or accept, or publicly propose to approve, endorse, recommend, agree to or accept, any acquisition proposal;
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(e)
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submit to a vote of its shareholders any acquisition proposal;
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(f)
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withdraw, amend, qualify or modify, in each case in a manner adverse to Parent in any material respect, the recommendation of the ZIM board to vote “for” the merger proposal, or fail to include such
recommendation in this proxy statement;
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(g)
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if a tender offer or exchange offer that constitutes an acquisition proposal is commenced (other than by Parent, Merger Sub or any other subsidiary of Parent), fail to recommend against acceptance of such
acquisition proposal within ten business days after the commencement thereof in any solicitation or recommendation statement filed or furnished with the SEC; or
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(h)
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enter into any agreement in principle, letter of intent, term sheet, merger agreement, acquisition agreement, option agreement or other similar instrument providing for an acquisition proposal.
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We refer to each action set forth in clauses (d), (e), (f) or (g) above as a “change of recommendation.”
In addition, under the merger agreement, ZIM was required to, promptly after the execution and delivery of the merger agreement, cease and cause to be terminated any and all existing activities,
discussions or negotiations with any third party with respect to any acquisition proposal. In furtherance of the foregoing, ZIM was required to, and did, (A) within five (5) business days after the date of the merger agreement, request in writing
that each person that, within the twelve (12) months prior to the date of the merger agreement, had executed a confidentiality agreement in connection with, or had access to any physical or electronic data room relating to, the consideration of an
acquisition proposal or potential acquisition proposal promptly destroy or return to ZIM all nonpublic information furnished by ZIM or any of its representatives to such person or any of its Representatives in accordance with the terms of such
confidentiality agreement and (B) within one (1) business day after the date of the merger agreement, terminate access to any physical or electronic data rooms relating to the consideration of an acquisition proposal or potential acquisition
proposal by any such person and its Representatives.
Notwithstanding the limitations described above, if ZIM receives, prior to the ZIM special general meeting, a bona fide acquisition proposal from any third party, and provided there has otherwise
been no breach in any material respect of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations that resulted in the making of such acquisition proposal, ZIM and its representatives are permitted, prior to the ZIM special general meeting, to furnish non-public
information to and afford access to the business, employees, officers, contracts, properties, assets, books and records of ZIM and its subsidiaries to such third party and its representatives, or engage in discussions or negotiations with such
third party with respect to such acquisition proposal; provided that, in either case, the ZIM board has determined, in its good faith judgment (after consultation with its financial advisors and outside legal counsel), that such acquisition
proposal constitutes or would reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal and that the failure to take such action would reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law. Any non-public
information provided to such third party must be provided pursuant to a customary confidentiality agreement with terms at least as restrictive as those contained in the confidentiality agreement entered into between ZIM and Parent that does not
prohibit compliance by ZIM with any of the provisions of the merger agreement.
For the purposes of the merger agreement:
“acquisition proposal” means any proposal or offer (whether or not in writing), other than from Parent, Merger Sub or their respective Subsidiaries, pursuant to which (a) a third party (or its
equity holders) would acquire, directly or indirectly, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, (i) 20% or more of the ZIM ordinary shares, (ii) 20% or more of consolidated total assets, revenue or income of the Company and
the Company Subsidiaries, taken as a whole (whether based on book value or fair market value) or (iii) 20% or more of the voting power of the Company or (b) by way of merger, consolidation, business combination, recapitalization, share exchange,
joint venture, restructuring, reorganization, liquidation, dissolution or other similar transaction involving ZIM or any of its subsidiaries, a third party (or its equity holders) would beneficially hold, directly or indirectly, 20% or more of the
voting power of ZIM or the surviving or resulting entity of such transaction or 20% or more of the consolidated assets, revenue or net income of ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole (whether based on book value or fair market value).
“intervening event” means any change, effect, development, circumstance, condition, state of facts, event or occurrence with respect to ZIM or its subsidiaries that (a) was neither known to the ZIM
board nor reasonably foreseeable prior to the date of the merger agreement (or, if known or reasonably foreseeable, the consequences of which were not known or reasonably foreseeable prior to the date of the merger agreement) and (b) does not
relate to (i) any acquisition proposal or any inquiry or communications or matters relating thereto, (ii) any breach of the merger agreement in any material respect by ZIM, (iii) the negotiation, execution, announcement, pendency or consummation of
the transactions (including the merger), including any litigation arising therefrom (including any litigation arising from allegations of a breach of duty or violation of applicable law), including the announcement, pendency or consummation of the
transactions (including as resulting from the identity of Parent or its subsidiaries), and including the impact thereof on relationships, contractual or otherwise, with any governmental entity or any customers, suppliers, distributors, licensors,
licensees, partners, shareholders, financing sources or employees of ZIM or its subsidiaries, (iv) any matter related to the Special State Share Approval or any other approvals required for the consummation of the transactions under any regulatory
law; or (v) changes in the market price or trading volume of the ZIM ordinary shares or ZIM’s credit rating (provided that any effect underlying or that contributed to such changes described in this clause (v) may, to the extent not excluded under
another clause in this definition, be taken into account in determining whether there has been an intervening event).
“superior proposal” means any bona fide written acquisition proposal made by a third party, which was not obtained in violation of the non-solicitation provisions of the merger agreement, pursuant
to which (a) such third party (or its equity holders) would acquire, directly or indirectly, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, (i) more than 50% of the ZIM ordinary shares, (ii) more than 50% of consolidated total
assets, revenue or income of ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole (whether based on book value or fair market value) or (iii) more than 50% of the voting power of ZIM or (b) by way of merger, consolidation, business combination,
recapitalization, share exchange, joint venture, restructuring, reorganization, liquidation, dissolution or other similar transaction involving ZIM or any of its subsidiaries, such third party (or its equity holders) would beneficially hold,
directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting power of the Company or the surviving or resulting entity of such transaction or 50% or more of the consolidated assets, revenue or net income of ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole
(whether based on book value or fair market value), in the case of each of clauses (a) and (b), (1) on terms that the ZIM board determines in good faith (after consultation with outside counsel and its financial advisors) to be more favorable from
a financial point of view to the holders of ZIM shares (other than Parent and its subsidiaries) than the transactions, taking into account all relevant factors of such proposal and the merger agreement (including any changes proposed by Parent to
the terms of the merger agreement) and (2) which the ZIM board determines in good faith (after consultation with outside counsel and its financial advisors) is reasonably capable of being consummated on the terms proposed, taking into account the
Person making such acquisition proposal, any required approvals from Governmental Entities or other approvals in connection with such acquisition proposal and any related regulatory considerations (including the likelihood of obtaining such
approvals and the likelihood and extent of any divestitures, commitments or limitations required in connection therewith), and the financial, regulatory, legal, timing and other aspects of such acquisition proposal.
Change of Recommendation; Match Rights
At any time prior to ZIM shareholder approval being obtained:
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the ZIM board may make a change of recommendation in response to an intervening event or if ZIM has received a superior proposal (after taking into account the terms of any revised offer by Parent) if the ZIM
board has determined in good faith after consultation with ZIM’s outside legal counsel and financial advisors that the failure to take such action would be reasonably likely to violate the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law;
or
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the ZIM board may cause ZIM to terminate the merger agreement pursuant to the merger agreement in order to enter into a definitive written agreement providing for a superior proposal simultaneously with the
termination of the merger agreement, provided that there has otherwise been no breach in any material respect of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations that resulted in such superior proposal.
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Prior to making a change of recommendation for any reason set forth above, ZIM must provide Parent with four business days’ prior written notice (the “notice period”) advising Parent that the ZIM
board intends to effect a change of recommendation, which notice will advise Parent of the material circumstances giving rise to the change of recommendation, and, in the case of a superior proposal, that the ZIM board has received a superior
proposal, and include the identity of the third party and copies of the written agreements with respect thereto. During the notice period, ZIM must negotiate with Parent in good faith (if and to the extent Parent desires to negotiate) to make such
adjustments in the terms and conditions of the merger agreement so that, in the case of a superior proposal, such superior proposal ceases to constitute a superior proposal, or, in the case of an intervening event, the failure to make such a change
of recommendation (after consultation with outside financial advisors and outside legal counsel) would no longer reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law, and the ZIM board must make the
required determination regarding its fiduciary duties again at the end of such notice period (considering the results of such negotiations and giving effect to any proposals, amendments or modifications made or agreed to in writing by Parent, if
any, and after consultation with its outside financial advisor and outside legal counsel).
Nothing contained in the merger agreement will prevent ZIM, or the ZIM board, from issuing a “stop, look and listen” communication pursuant to Rule 14d-9(f) under the Exchange Act or complying with
Rule 14d-9, Rule 14e-2 or Item 1012(a) of Regulation M-A under the Exchange Act with respect to an acquisition proposal or from making any disclosure to ZIM’s shareholders if the ZIM board (after consultation with outside legal counsel) concludes
that its failure to do so would reasonably be likely to be inconsistent with the directors’ fiduciary duties under applicable law; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not permit ZIM or the ZIM board to make a change of recommendation or to
terminate the merger agreement, except in compliance with the match rights process described above.
Reasonable Best Efforts
Regulatory Approvals
Under the merger agreement, subject to the limitations contained therein, Parent and ZIM are required to use reasonable best efforts to promptly take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do,
or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under the merger agreement and applicable law to consummate and make effective as promptly as reasonably practicable after the date of the merger agreement the transactions, including
the merger, including: (a) preparing and filing or otherwise providing, in consultation with the other party and as promptly as reasonably practicable after the date of the merger agreement, all documentation to effect all necessary applications,
notices, petitions, filings, and other documents and using reasonable best efforts to obtain as promptly as reasonably practicable all waiting period expirations or terminations, consents, clearances, waivers, licenses, orders, registrations,
approvals, permits and authorizations necessary or advisable to be obtained from any third party and/or any governmental entity in order to consummate the transactions, including the merger (including the options tax ruling and/or the withholding
tax ruling, as and if applicable, and the Special State Share Approval); and (b) using reasonable best efforts to take all actions as may be necessary to obtain (and cooperating with each other in obtaining) all such waiting period expirations or
terminations, consents, clearances, waivers, licenses, orders, registrations, approvals, permits and authorizations.
In particular, the merger agreement requires each of Parent and Merger Sub to take, and cause their affiliates to take, promptly any and all steps necessary or reasonably advisable or as may be
required by any governmental entity to avoid or eliminate each and every impediment and obtain all permits and requisite clearances or approvals under any applicable requirements of the regulatory laws of certain agreed jurisdictions, in each case,
that may be required by any governmental entity so as to enable the parties to consummate the transactions, including the merger (other than the Special State Share Approval, the requirements with respect to which are described further below),
including (A) committing to and effecting, by consent decree, hold separate order, trust or otherwise, or selling, divesting, licensing or otherwise disposing of, or holding separate and agreeing to sell, divest, license or otherwise dispose of,
any assets or businesses of ZIM or its subsidiaries or of Parent or its subsidiaries, (B) terminating, amending or assigning existing relationships and contractual rights and obligations of ZIM and/or its subsidiaries or of Parent and/or its
subsidiaries, (C) requiring ZIM or any of its subsidiaries or Parent or any of its subsidiaries to grant any right or commercial or other accommodation to, or enter into any material commercial contractual or other commercial relationship with, any
third party, (D) imposing limitations on ZIM or its subsidiaries or Parent or its subsidiaries with respect to how they own, retain, maintain, conduct or operate all or any portion of their respective businesses or assets and (E) entering into any
mitigation, consent or similar agreement, implementing any order or adopting any conditions issued by a governmental entity; provided that any such action is conditioned upon the consummation of the
transactions (any action of the type described in any of clauses (A) through (E), a “remedial action”); provided, however, that, notwithstanding anything in the merger agreement to the contrary, neither Parent nor any of its affiliates will be
required to take or accept or agree or commit to take or accept (and ZIM and its subsidiaries may not, without the prior written consent of Parent, take or accept or agree or commit to take or accept) any remedial actions that, individually or in
the aggregate, would (x) have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results of operations of Parent and its subsidiaries (including ZIM and its subsidiaries), taken as a whole, as measured relative to the size of ZIM and
its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, regardless of whether such actions are imposed on, or affect, Parent, ZIM or any of their respective subsidiaries, or (y) have a material adverse effect on Parent and its subsidiaries’ freedom of action with
respect to, or their ability to exercise rights of ownership or control with respect to, ZIM and its subsidiaries (or their businesses), taken as a whole (any such remedial actions described in clause (x) or (y), a “regulatory burdensome
condition”).
Special State Share Approval
Pursuant to the merger agreement, subject to certain limitations, Parent has agreed to use reasonable best efforts to obtain the Special State Share Release, which may be obtained pursuant to the
Special State Share Assumption whereby:
(a) Parent will, or will cause its subsidiaries (including ZIM and its subsidiaries) to, effective as of the effective time, in accordance with the FIMI framework agreement, (1) sell,
transfer, convey or assign at least 11 qualifying vessels to the qualifying Israeli partner and (2) sell, transfer, convey, assign or lease to, or otherwise provide to or arrange for, the qualifying Israeli partner such other assets, employees and
services as necessary to permit the Israeli partner to comply with the rights and obligations of the Special State Share;
(b) the qualifying Israeli partner will enter into, and Parent will use its reasonable best efforts to cause the Israeli partner to enter into, a binding assumption agreement or other
instrument of novation with the State of Israel (in each case in form and substance acceptable to the State of Israel), which will be conditioned upon the closing and effective as of the effective time, pursuant to which the qualifying Israeli
partner assumes and agrees to be bound by, and the State of Israel acknowledges such assumption of, the rights and obligations of the Special State Share;
(c) the articles of association of the qualifying Israeli partner will be amended to reflect the rights and obligations relating to the Special State Share, which rights and obligations
will be fully assumed by the qualifying Israeli partner, effective as of the effective time; and
(d) the terms of the Special State Share, ZIM articles of association and any related contract will be amended, modified or irrevocably and perpetually waived as necessary to effect the
Special State Share Release (including the Special State Share Approval with respect thereto) effective as of the effective time.
In furtherance of the Special State Share Release, Parent will, among other things (I) comply with its obligations under the binding framework agreement with FIMI and use its reasonable best
efforts to (A) enforce its rights thereunder, (B) enter into, and to cause FIMI to enter into, definitive agreements effecting the Special State Share Assumption that are consistent in all respects with the provisions set forth therein and (C) to
the extent consistent with the terms thereof, cause FIMI to (1) use its reasonable best efforts to consummate (and obtain the Special State Share Approval of) the Special State Share Assumption and (2) agree to any reasonable amendments or
modifications to the Special State Share Assumption that are not materially adverse to FIMI and that would not constitute a Special State Share Burdensome Condition (as defined below), and (II) subject to certain limitations, in the event that the
State of Israel expresses ongoing reservations or indicates deficiencies with FIMI such that the Special State Share Approval is not expected to be reached in a timely manner or FIMI does not accept any actions or commitments required by the State
of Israel, to the extent consistent with the terms of the binding framework agreement with FIMI, seek an alternative Israeli partner reasonably expected to be approved by the State of Israel, following consultation with ZIM. In addition, ZIM will
be required to use its reasonable best efforts to cooperate with Parent and FIMI to consummate the Special State Share Assumption, subject to certain limitations.
Parent will not be required to take any actions or commitments (and ZIM will not without Parent’s consent take any actions or commitments) that, individually or in the aggregate, would (A) have a
material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results of operations of Parent and its subsidiaries (including ZIM and its subsidiaries), taken as a whole, as measured relative to the size of ZIM and its subsidiaries, taken as a
whole, regardless of whether such actions are imposed on, or affect, Parent, ZIM or any of their respective subsidiaries (including any actions or commitments that, individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to violate any cargo
acceptance or other material law applicable to Parent or its subsidiaries (including ZIM and its subsidiaries)), (B) have a material adverse effect on Parent’s and its subsidiaries’ freedom of action with respect to, or their ability to exercise
rights of ownership or control with respect to, ZIM and its subsidiaries (or their businesses, taken as a whole (including any actions or commitments that, individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to materially impair the
economic, financial or operational synergies reasonably expected to be realized from the transactions)), (C) require Parent or any of its affiliates (including ZIM and its subsidiaries) to hold any equity investment in the Israeli partner or any of
its affiliates or (D) cause Parent or any of its affiliates (including ZIM and its subsidiaries) to be, or remain, subject to any of the rights or obligations relating to the Special State Share (any action or commitment described in this
paragraph, a “Special State Share Burdensome Condition” and, together with a “regulatory burdensome condition”, a “burdensome condition”).
Conditions to the Merger
The obligations of each party to consummate the merger are subject to the satisfaction on or prior to the closing date of each of the following conditions (any and all of which may be waived in
whole or in part by Parent and ZIM to the extent permitted by applicable law):
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ZIM Shareholder Approval — The ZIM shareholder approval has been obtained;
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Government Consents (including Special State Share Approval)— (i) All applicable filings, registrations, waiting periods (or extensions thereof) and approvals relating to
the transactions under certain specified antitrust and foreign investment laws contemplated by the merger agreement shall have been made, expired, terminated or obtained, as the case may be, and remain in effect, and (ii) the Special State
Share Approval shall have been obtained.
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No Legal Prohibition — No governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has (i) enacted, issued or promulgated any law that is in effect as of immediately prior to the
effective time or (ii) issued or granted any order or injunction (whether temporary, preliminary or permanent) that is in effect as of immediately prior to the effective time, which, in each case, has the effect of restraining, enjoining or
otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the merger; and
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Statutory Waiting Period — At least 50 days have elapsed after the filing of the merger proposal with the Companies Registrar and at least 30 days have elapsed after the
ZIM shareholder approval has been obtained.
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The obligations of Parent to consummate the merger will be further subject to the satisfaction on or prior to the closing date of each of the following conditions, any and all of which may be
waived in whole or in part by Parent to the extent permitted by applicable law:
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Accuracy of Representations and Warranties — The representations and warranties of ZIM in the merger agreement being true and correct as of February 16, 2026 (the date of
the merger agreement) and as of the closing as though made as of the closing (except for representations and warranties that by their terms speak specifically as of another date, in which case as of such date), subject to certain
materiality qualifications;
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Compliance with Covenants — Performance and compliance in all material respects by ZIM with the obligations, covenants and agreements required to be performed and
complied with by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing;
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No Material Adverse Effect — A company material adverse effect not having occurred on or after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement); and
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Officer Certificate —The receipt by Parent of a certificate, dated as of the closing date, signed by the chief executive officer or chief financial officer of ZIM,
certifying that the conditions set forth in the three bullet points immediately above have been satisfied; and
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No Government Proceedings — There not being any pending proceeding by any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that would reasonably be expected to result in an
order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling imposing a burdensome condition and no governmental entity of competent jurisdiction having conditioned its approval or lack of objection to the consummation of the transactions on the
undertaking of, or having issued or granted any order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling imposing, a burdensome condition.
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The obligations of ZIM to consummate the merger will be further subject to the satisfaction on or prior to the closing date of each of the following conditions, any and all of which may be waived
in whole or in part by ZIM to the extent permitted by applicable law:
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Accuracy of Representations and Warranties — The representations and warranties of Parent and Merger Sub in the merger agreement being true and correct as of February 16,
2026 (the date of the merger agreement) and as of the closing as though made as of the closing (except for representations and warranties that by their terms speak specifically as of another date, in which case as of such date), subject to
certain materiality qualifications;
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Compliance with Covenants — Performance and compliance in all material respects by Parent and Merger Sub with the obligations, covenants and agreements required to be
performed and complied with by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing;
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Officer Certificate — The receipt by ZIM of a certificate, dated as of the closing date, signed by the chief executive officer or chief financial officer of Parent
certifying that the conditions set forth in the two bullet points immediately above have been satisfied.
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Termination of the Merger Agreement
Termination by Parent or ZIM
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the closing:
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by mutual written consent of Parent and ZIM; or
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by either Parent or ZIM, if:
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any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of
the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement (provided that the right to terminate is not available to a party if the issuance of such legal restraint was caused by the failure of such party to perform any of its obligations under
the merger agreement);
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the closing has not occurred on or before the outside date, except that if on such date all of the conditions to closing, other than certain conditions related to regulatory approvals and the absence of any
order or injunction on the consummation of the merger, have been satisfied or waived, then the outside date will automatically be extended until June 30, 2027 (the right to terminate is not available to any party whose action or failure
to fulfill any obligation under the merger agreement has been the primary cause of the failure of the transactions to be consummated by the outside date); or
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if the ZIM special general meeting, including any adjournment or postponement thereof, at which the merger proposal has been voted upon, has concluded and the ZIM shareholder approval has not been obtained.
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Termination by ZIM
The merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the closing by ZIM if:
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at any time prior to obtaining the ZIM shareholder approval, ZIM substantially concurrently enters into a definitive agreement providing for a superior proposal in accordance with the merger agreement (subject
to ZIM’s compliance with its non-solicitation obligations and substantially concurrent payment of the ZIM termination fee); or
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at any time before the closing, Parent or Merger Sub has breached, failed to perform or violated their respective obligations, covenants or agreements under the merger agreement, or any of the representations
and warranties of Parent or Merger Sub in the merger agreement have been breached or become inaccurate, in either case in a manner that the closing conditions relating to Parent’s and Merger Sub’s representations and warranties or
performance of obligations could not be satisfied as of the closing date, and such breach has not been cured within 60 days after written notice (provided that ZIM will not have the right to terminate if ZIM is then in material breach of
any of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements).
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Termination by Parent
The merger agreement may be terminated by Parent if:
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at any time prior to obtaining the ZIM shareholder approval, the ZIM board of directors has effected a change of recommendation; or
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a governmental entity of competent jurisdiction has issued a final, non-appealable order, injunction, decree, judgment or ruling permanently imposing a burdensome condition (provided that Parent will have
used its reasonable best efforts to remove such legal restraints and prevent the imposition of such burdensome condition); or
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at any time before the closing, ZIM has breached, failed to perform or violated its obligations, covenants or agreements under the merger agreement, or any of the representations and warranties of ZIM in the
merger agreement have been breached or become inaccurate, in either case in a manner that the closing conditions relating to ZIM’s representations and warranties, performance of obligations, or absence of a company material adverse effect
could not be satisfied as of the closing date, and such breach has not been cured within 60 days after written notice (provided that Parent will not have the right to terminate if Parent is then in material breach of any of its
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements).
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Termination Fee
ZIM Termination Fee
The merger agreement provides that ZIM will pay or cause to be paid to Parent a termination fee of $150,000,000 (the “ZIM termination fee”) if:
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(1) (a) Parent or ZIM terminates the merger agreement as a result of the closing having not occurred on or before the outside date or the ZIM shareholder approval having not been
obtained, or (b) Parent terminates the merger agreement as a result of a breach, failure to perform or violation of the merger agreement by ZIM that (except for a breach of ZIM’s non-solicitation obligations under the merger agreement)
first occurred following the making of an acquisition proposal of the type described below; (2) after February 16, 2026 (the date of the merger agreement) and prior to the date of the termination (or prior to the ZIM special general
meeting in the case of a termination as a result of ZIM shareholder approval having not been obtained), a bona fide acquisition proposal has been publicly disclosed or otherwise made known to the ZIM board or management and in each case
is not withdrawn (publicly, if publicly disclosed) at least three business days prior to the earlier of the date of the ZIM special general meeting, the date of such termination, or the date of the applicable breach; and (3) within
eighteen months of such termination, an acquisition proposal is consummated or a definitive agreement is entered into with respect to an acquisition proposal that is subsequently consummated (provided that for purposes of this paragraph,
all references in the definition of the term “acquisition proposal” to “20%” will be replaced with references to “50%”);
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Parent terminates the merger agreement because the ZIM board has effected a change of recommendation; or
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ZIM terminates the merger agreement in order to enter into a definitive agreement providing for a superior proposal.
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In no event will ZIM be obligated to pay the ZIM termination fee on more than one occasion.
Parent Termination Fee
The merger agreement provides that Parent will pay or cause to be paid to ZIM a termination fee of $160,000,000 (the “Parent termination fee”) if Parent or ZIM terminates the merger agreement due
to the closing not occurring on or before the outside date or due to a final, non-appealable order permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the transactions (only if the order, injunction, decree, judgment or
ruling is in respect of a regulatory law, excluding the Special State Share Approval or any Israeli regulatory laws other than the Israeli competition law), or if Parent terminates the merger agreement due to the imposition of a burdensome
condition (only if in respect of an other required regulatory approval, excluding the Special State Share Approval or any Israeli regulatory laws other than the Israeli competition law), and, in each case, at the time of such termination, certain
regulatory-related conditions have not been satisfied but all other conditions to closing have been satisfied or waived.
In no event will Parent be obligated to pay the Parent termination fee on more than one occasion.
Amendment
Subject to applicable laws, the merger agreement may be amended by the parties to the merger agreement at any time before or after receipt of the ZIM shareholder approval; provided, however, that
(i) after receipt of the ZIM shareholder approval, no amendment that by law, requires further approval by the ZIM shareholders will be made without the further approval of the ZIM shareholders, and (ii) except as provided above, no amendment of
the merger agreement will be submitted to be approved by the ZIM shareholders unless required by law. The merger agreement may only be amended by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties to the merger agreement, and any
such amendment by ZIM will be at the direction of and only be valid if approved by the ZIM board.
Expenses
Except as otherwise expressly provided in the merger agreement, all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby will be paid by the
party incurring such costs and expenses, except that Parent will pay all filing fees under the HSR Act and any other applicable regulatory laws relating to such transactions and all fees and expenses of the exchange agent and the Israeli
withholding agent.
Governing Law
The merger agreement is governed by Delaware law, except that provisions that expressly relate to (i) fiduciary duties of directors that arise under Israeli law and (ii) the merger (including its
validity, effect and procedural steps for consummation) to the extent governed by Israeli law, are governed by Israeli law.
Opinions of Financial Advisors
The ZIM board has received an oral opinion from Evercore, subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026 (attached as Annex C-1), that, as of the date of
such opinion and based upon and subject to the various assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions described in Evercore’s written opinion, the merger consideration to be received by holders of ZIM ordinary shares in the Merger is fair,
from a financial point of view, to such holders other than the holders of excluded shares. The ZIM board has also received an oral opinion from Barclays, subsequently confirmed by delivery of a written opinion dated February 16, 2026 (attached as Annex
C-2), that, as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to the various assumptions, limitations, qualifications and conditions set forth in Barclays’s written opinion, the merger consideration pursuant to the proposed
transaction was fair, from a financial point of view, to the holders of the ZIM ordinary shares (other than the holders of excluded shares).
Employee Matters
Under the merger agreement, Parent has agreed to assume, honor and fulfill all Company benefit plans in accordance with their terms as in effect immediately prior to the date of the merger
agreement (or as subsequently amended or terminated as permitted pursuant to the terms of such plans and the merger agreement).
Effective as of the effective time and for a period of twelve months thereafter, Parent will, or will cause its subsidiaries (including the surviving company and any of its subsidiaries) to,
provide to each continuing employee with:
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base salary or hourly wage rate that is no less favorable than the base salary or hourly wage rate provided to such continuing employee immediately prior to the closing date;
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short-term cash incentive compensation opportunities that are no less favorable than the short-term cash incentive compensation opportunities in effect for such continuing employee immediately prior to the
closing date;
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severance payments and benefits that are no less favorable than the severance payments and benefits in effect for such continuing employee immediately prior to the closing date; and
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other compensation (including long-term incentive compensation opportunities), benefits and perquisites (excluding one-off awards, retention, change in control compensation, defined benefit pension or
post-employment health, severance and welfare benefits) that, with respect to each continuing employee, are substantially comparable in the aggregate to such other compensation, benefits and perquisites provided to such continuing employee
immediately prior to the closing date.
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For purposes of clarity, cash incentive opportunities of equivalent value (as of immediately prior to the closing date) substituted for equity or equity-based long-term incentive compensation
opportunities will be considered substantially comparable to such equity or equity-based long-term incentive compensation opportunities.
With respect to any continuing employee covered by a collective bargaining agreement or other labor agreement, for a period of at least twelve months following the closing (or as otherwise agreed
in writing by ZIM and Parent), the terms and conditions of employment (including compensation and benefits) applicable to such continuing employee will be governed by the terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreement or other labor
agreement, as in effect from time to time; provided that such terms will be no less favorable than the terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreement or other labor agreement as in effect on the date of the merger agreement and subject to
applicable law.
In addition, under the merger agreement, Parent has undertaken that, for purposes of vesting, eligibility to participate, level of benefits and benefit accruals under the employee benefit plans of
Parent and its subsidiaries providing benefits to any continuing employees after the effective time (the “new plans”), Parent will, or will cause ZIM or any of its subsidiaries to, provide each continuing employee with credit for his or her years
of service with ZIM and any respective predecessors before the closing date; provided that such service credit will not be required to apply (x) to the extent that its application would result in a duplication of benefits with respect to the same
period of service or (y) with respect to any defined benefit pension plan benefits.
The merger agreement provides that, if Parent provides written notice to ZIM directing ZIM to terminate its 401(k) plan(s), then ZIM will terminate any and all 401(k) plans effective the day
immediately preceding the day of the merger. As soon as reasonably practicable following the 401(k) termination date, Parent will permit all ZIM continuing employees who were eligible to participate in such 401(k) plan(s) to participate in Parent’s
401(k) plan and to elect to roll over their account balances (and Parent will be required to use reasonable best efforts to permit the rollover of any outstanding participant loans), except to the extent accepting such transfers would adversely
affect the tax-qualified status of Parent’s 401(k) plan or as may be prohibited by the terms of Parent’s 401(k) plan.
In addition, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing:
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Parent will use its reasonable best efforts, and will cause ZIM and its subsidiaries to use their reasonable best efforts, to cause each continuing employee to be immediately eligible to participate, without
any waiting time, in any and all new plans providing health or welfare benefits; and
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for purposes of each new plan providing health or welfare benefits to any continuing employee during the plan year in which the closing date occurs, Parent will use its reasonable best efforts, and will cause
ZIM and its subsidiaries to use their reasonable best efforts, to cause (x) all pre-existing condition exclusions and actively-at-work requirements of such new plan to be waived for such continuing employee and his or her covered dependents
and (y) any eligible expenses incurred by any continuing employee and his or her covered dependents during the portion of the plan year during which the closing date occurs to be taken into account under such new plan for purposes of
satisfying all deductible, coinsurance and maximum out-of-pocket requirements applicable to such continuing employee and his or her covered dependents for the applicable plan year as if such amounts had been paid in accordance with such new
plan.
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Without limiting the generality of the employee matters provisions, Parent will honor all obligations under any ZIM benefit plan that is a short-term cash incentive compensation plan or arrangement
(a “cash bonus plan”) with respect to ZIM’s fiscal year in which the closing occurs and will make all payments and determinations thereunder in accordance with the terms of such cash bonus plan and consistent with past practice solely to the extent
such payments have not been made by ZIM or its subsidiaries prior to the effective time; provided that the amounts payable thereunder will not be less than the amount accrued with respect to the applicable cash bonus plan in accordance with the
terms and conditions of such cash bonus plan with respect to ZIM’s fiscal year in which the closing occurs.
Parent has acknowledged that a “change in control” or “change of control” of ZIM, or other term with similar import, within the meaning of the ZIM benefit plans that contain such terms, will occur
upon the effective time.
Other Covenants and Agreements
The merger agreement contains additional covenants and agreements relating to, among other matters:
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the provision of access to ZIM information as necessary in connection with integration planning;
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submission of the merger proposal to the Companies Registrar, delivery of such merger proposal to ZIM’s secured creditors, publication of such merger proposal and certain other requirements under the Companies Law;
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approval of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby by the sole shareholder of Merger Sub;
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consultation and consent rights regarding any press releases or other public statements with respect to the merger agreement, the merger, or the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;
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the delisting of ZIM ordinary shares;
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eliminating any applicability of takeover laws;
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Parent’s obligation to cause Merger Sub to perform its obligations under the merger agreement;
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notice, cooperation and coordination relating to transaction-related litigation, if any;
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resignations of ZIM directors;
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monthly monitoring reports on cash and cash equivalents.
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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER
The following discussion is a summary of the U.S. federal income tax consequences generally applicable to U.S. Holders (as defined below) who receive the merger consideration pursuant to the
merger.
This discussion is based on and subject to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder (“Treasury Regulations”), administrative
rulings, published guidance of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) and court decisions, in each case, all as currently in effect as of the date hereof and all of which are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect) and to
differing interpretations. Any such change or differing interpretation could affect the accuracy of the statements and conclusions set forth in this discussion.
The following discussion (i) assumes that the merger will be consummated in accordance with the merger agreement and as described in this proxy statement and (ii) applies only to U.S. Holders that
hold their ZIM ordinary shares as “capital assets” within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment).
This discussion is for general information purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to any
particular U.S. Holder in light of such U.S. Holder’s particular circumstances, including any tax consequences relating to the Medicare contribution tax on net investment income, the alternative minimum tax, or the Foreign Account Tax Compliance
Act (including the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder and intergovernmental agreements entered into pursuant thereto or in connection therewith) or to any U.S. Holders subject to special treatment under the Code, including, without
limitation:
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banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions;
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real estate investment trusts and regulated investment companies;
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traders in securities who elect to apply a mark‑to‑market method of accounting;
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brokers, dealers or traders in securities;
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tax‑exempt organizations or governmental organizations and instrumentalities;
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dealers or brokers in securities or non-U.S. currency;
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tax-qualified retirement plans;
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corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax (and investors therein);
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persons whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar;
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U.S. expatriates and former citizens or long‑term residents of the United States;
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persons who hold their ZIM ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedging, constructive sale, synthetic security, conversion, constructive sale or other risk reduction transaction or integrated investment;
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persons who purchase or sell their ZIM ordinary shares as part of a wash sale for tax purposes;
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“S corporations,” partnerships or other entities or arrangements classified as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or other pass‑through entities (and investors therein);
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persons liable for any alternative minimum tax;
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persons required to accelerate the recognition of any item of gross income as a result of such income being recognized on an “applicable financial statement”;
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persons who hold their ZIM ordinary shares through a bank, financial institution or other entity, or a branch thereof, located, organized or resident outside of the United States;
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persons who own or have owned (directly, indirectly or through attribution) 5% or more of the voting power or value of ZIM ordinary shares; and
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persons who received their ZIM ordinary shares pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or other compensation arrangements.
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This discussion also does not address any considerations under the U.S. federal tax laws other than those pertaining to the income tax, nor does it address any state, local or non‑U.S. tax
considerations. We do not intend to seek any rulings from the IRS with respect to the merger, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will not take a position contrary to the tax consequences described herein or that such a contrary position
would not be sustained by a court.
If a partnership, including for this purpose any arrangement or entity that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, holds ZIM ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner
(including for this purpose an investor treated as a partner) in the partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partner and the partnership. A holder that is a partnership for U.S. federal income tax
purposes and the partners in such partnership are urged to consult their tax advisors about the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger and with respect to the ownership and disposition of ZIM ordinary shares.
For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” means a beneficial owner of ZIM ordinary shares that for U.S. federal income tax purposes is or is treated as any of the following:
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a citizen or individual resident of the United States;
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a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;
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an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of its source; or
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a trust that (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and all substantial decisions of which are subject to the control of one or more “United States persons” (within the meaning of Section
7701(a)(30) of the Code), or (2) has a valid election in effect to be treated as a United States person for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
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THIS DISCUSSION IS NOT TAX ADVICE. HOLDERS OF ZIM ORDINARY SHARES SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER IN
LIGHT OF THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES, AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING UNDER U.S. FEDERAL TAX LAWS OTHER THAN THOSE PERTAINING TO INCOME TAX, INCLUDING ESTATE OR GIFT TAX LAWS, OR UNDER ANY STATE, LOCAL OR NON‑U.S. TAX LAWS OR ANY
APPLICABLE TAX TREATY.
HOLDERS OF ZIM ORDINARY SHARES WHO ARE NOT U.S. HOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME AND WITHHOLDING TAX CONSEQUENCES AND ANY
APPLICABLE STATE, LOCAL OR NON‑U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER.
The receipt by a U.S. Holder of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger will be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Generally, for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, a U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount of cash it receives pursuant to the merger (including any amounts required to be withheld for tax purposes) and its adjusted tax basis in the
ZIM ordinary shares exchanged for such cash. A U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in shares of ZIM ordinary shares will generally equal the amount that such U.S. Holder paid for such shares.
Any gain or loss recognized by a U.S. Holder generally would be long‑term capital gain or loss if the ZIM ordinary shares exchanged were held for more than one year as of the
effective date of the merger. A reduced tax rate generally applies to long‑term capital gain of a non‑corporate U.S. Holder (including individuals). The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. If a U.S. Holder acquired different
blocks of ZIM ordinary shares at different times or at different prices, such U.S. Holder must determine its adjusted tax basis and holding period separately with respect to each block of ZIM ordinary shares (generally, shares acquired at the same
cost in a single transaction).
As discussed below (see “Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger”), the gross amount of cash that a U.S. Holder would be entitled to receive in connection
with the merger may be subject to Israeli withholding tax. A U.S. Holder is generally entitled to use foreign tax credits to offset only the portion of its U.S. federal income tax liability attributable to foreign source income. For foreign tax
credit purposes, gain or loss recognized by a U.S. Holder as a result of the merger will generally be U.S.-source gain or loss and passive category income. Accordingly, a U.S. Holder may be unable to claim a foreign tax credit for all or a
portion of any Israeli withholding tax imposed on the cash paid to such U.S. Holder pursuant to the merger unless such U.S. Holder has foreign source income from other sources. Moreover, special rules under Israeli domestic tax law and the tax
treaty between the United States and Israel (see “Material Israeli Income Tax Consequences of the Merger”) that may allow a U.S. Holder to claim an exemption from Israeli withholding tax may impact such U.S. Holder’s ability to claim a foreign
tax credit with respect to any such Israeli withholding tax. The rules governing foreign tax credits are complex. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the ability to claim a foreign tax credit and the application of
the treaty.
The foregoing discussion regarding gain recognized by a U.S. Holder as a result of the merger assumes that the Company is not currently, and has not been, a “passive foreign
investment company” (“PFIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes during such U.S. Holder’s holding period for the ZIM ordinary shares exchanged pursuant to the merger.
Special and adverse U.S. tax rules apply to a U.S. Holder that holds an interest in a PFIC. A non‑U.S. corporation is treated as a PFIC for any taxable year if either: (a) at
least 75% of its gross income for such year is passive income or (b) at least 50% of the value of its assets (based on a quarterly average) is attributable to assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income. Passive income for
this purpose generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, royalties, rents, and gains from commodities and securities transactions. Active business gains arising from the sale of commodities generally are excluded from passive
income if substantially all of such non-U.S. corporation’s commodities are stock in trade or inventory, depreciable property used in a trade or business or supplies regularly used or consumed in a trade or business and certain other requirements
are satisfied. In determining whether a non‑U.S. corporation is a PFIC, a proportionate share of the assets and income of each corporation in which it owns, directly or indirectly, at least 25% interest (by value) is taken into account. Under the
PFIC rules, if a non‑U.S. corporation were considered a PFIC at any time during which a holder held shares in such non‑U.S. corporation, then the non‑U.S. corporation would (absent certain elections) generally continue to be treated as a PFIC for
all subsequent years with respect to such holder’s shares regardless of whether such non‑U.S. corporation continues to meet the tests noted above in any subsequent taxable year.
Based on the historical composition of the Company’s income, assets, and operations, the Company believes that it was not a PFIC for the taxable year ended December 31, 2025,
although no assurances can be provided due to the highly factual nature of such analysis. Although the Company does not expect to be treated as a PFIC for the current taxable year, no assurances can be provided, including because its status for the
current taxable year ending December 31, 2026 will not be determinable until after the close of the year, and it is possible that it may be classified as a PFIC for the current taxable year and for future taxable years.
If the Company were a PFIC in the current taxable year or in any prior taxable year in which a U.S. Holder has held ZIM ordinary shares, then such U.S. Holder generally would
be subject to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences with respect to gain recognized on any sale or exchange of such shares, including the exchange of such shares pursuant to the merger, unless such U.S. Holder has in effect certain
elections, such as the mark‑to‑market election or the “qualified electing fund” election.
The U.S. federal income tax rules relating to PFICs are complex. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors concerning whether the Company is or has been a PFIC for any
taxable year during which such U.S. Holder has owned ZIM ordinary shares, the availability of any applicable elections to such U.S. Holder and the tax consequences of the receipt of the merger consideration pursuant to the merger.
THIS SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. HOLDERS OF ZIM ORDINARY SHARES SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX
ADVISORS AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSIDERATIONS TO THEM OF THE MERGER IN LIGHT OF THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF ANY U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, NON-U.S. AND OTHER TAX LAWS.
MATERIAL ISRAELI INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER
The following is a summary discussion of certain material Israeli tax considerations in connection with the merger. This summary is provided for general informational purposes only and is not
intended as tax advice to any particular holder of ZIM ordinary shares. This summary is based on current Israeli tax law, regulations, and interpretations, all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect, and to differing
interpretations. No assurance can be given that new or future legislation, regulations, or interpretations will not significantly change the tax considerations described below, or that the Israel Tax Authority (the “ITA”) or the courts will agree with the views expressed in this summary. This summary does not discuss all material aspects of Israeli tax consequences that may apply to particular holders of ZIM ordinary shares in light of
their individual circumstances, such as investors subject to special tax rules or other investors referred to below.
The Israeli tax consequences of the merger to ZIM shareholders will depend on their individual circumstances. You are encouraged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the
specific Israeli tax consequences of the merger applicable to you, including tax return reporting requirements, the applicability of federal, state, local, and foreign tax laws, and the effect of any proposed or future changes in tax laws. This
summary is not intended to be a complete analysis or description of all potential tax consequences of the merger.
In general, under the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance (New Version) 1961, as amended (the “Ordinance”), the disposition of shares of an Israeli company is deemed to be a sale of a capital asset. The
Ordinance generally imposes a capital gains tax on the sale of capital assets by an Israeli resident, and on the sale of such assets by a non‑Israel resident if those assets are (a) located in Israel, (b) shares or a right to a share in an Israeli
resident company, or (c) represent, directly or indirectly, rights to assets located in Israel, unless a specific exemption is available under the Israeli tax rules or if a treaty for the prevention of double taxation between Israel and the
transferor’s country of residence provides otherwise (subject to the receipt in advance of a valid certificate from the ITA allowing for an exemption).
Under the Ordinance and regulations promulgated thereunder, the tax rate applicable to real capital gains (after adjustment for inflation surplus, as discussed below) derived from the disposition
of ZIM ordinary shares in the merger is 25% for individuals, unless such shareholder claims a deduction for certain financing expenses in connection with such shares, in which case the gain will generally be taxed at a rate of 30%. Additionally,
if such individual is considered a “Significant Shareholder” at the time of the disposition or at any time during the 12‑month period preceding such disposition, i.e., such shareholder holds directly or indirectly, alone or together with such
person’s relative or another person who collaborates with such person on a permanent basis, at least 10% of any means of control (including the right to receive profits of the Company, voting rights, the right to receive the Company’s liquidation
assets and the right to appoint a director or an executive officer, or the right to instruct any other person to do any of the foregoing) in the Company, the tax rate will be 30%. Certain attribution rules apply in determining a status of a
“Significant Shareholder” including with respect to holders of ZIM ordinary shares who are relatives, or holders who are not relatives but who have an agreement regarding regular direct or indirect cooperation on substantive matters relating to
the Company. Israeli law distinguishes between real capital gain and inflationary surplus. The inflationary surplus is generally exempt from tax. Please consult with your own tax advisor as to the method you should use to determine the
inflationary surplus. The real capital gain is the excess of the total capital gain over the inflationary surplus. Real capital gains derived by companies are generally taxed at the ordinary corporate tax rate (the ordinary corporate tax rate in
Israel is currently 23%). Individual and corporate shareholders dealing in securities in Israel or for whom such income is otherwise taxable as ordinary business income, are taxed at the tax rates applicable to business income, currently, 23% for
companies and a marginal tax rate of up to 47% for individuals. An additional tax of 3% is imposed on individuals (whether Israeli residents or non-Israeli residents) whose annual taxable income from all sources, regardless of classification,
exceeds a certain threshold (NIS 721,560 for 2026). The additional 3% tax is imposed on any amount which exceeds that threshold. In addition, a further 2% surtax is imposed on taxable capital income (such as dividends, interest, and capital
gains) exceeding the same threshold, resulting in a total additional tax rate of 5% on such income above NIS 721,560.
Under the tax treaty between the United States and Israel, Israeli capital gains tax generally will not apply to the disposition of shares of an Israeli company by a person who qualifies as a
U.S. resident within the meaning of the treaty who is entitled to claim the benefits afforded to such a resident by the treaty (a “U.S. Treaty Resident”) and holds the shares as a capital asset. However, such exemption will not apply if (a) the
U.S. Treaty Resident has held, directly or indirectly, shares representing 10% or more of the voting power in the Company during any part of the 12‑month period preceding the disposition, subject to specified conditions, (b) the capital gains
from such disposition may be attributed to a permanent establishment that such U.S. Treaty Resident maintained in Israel, (c) the seller, being an individual, is present in Israel for a period or periods of 183 days or more in the aggregate
during the relevant taxable year, (d) the capital gains arising from such sale, exchange or disposition is attributed to real estate located in Israel, or (e) the capital gains arising from such sale, exchange or disposition is attributed to
royalties. In any such case, the sale, exchange or disposition of such shares would be subject to Israeli tax, to the extent applicable. U.S. shareholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the circumstances under which they may be able
to claim a foreign tax credit for Israeli capital gains tax. Eligibility to benefit from tax treaties is conditioned upon the holder of ZIM ordinary shares presenting a valid certificate from the ITA providing for such an exemption prior to the
applicable payment for such shares.
Other countries are party to tax treaties with Israel that, subject to the provisions of those treaties, may exempt a non-Israeli resident shareholder from Israeli tax. You are urged to consult with your own tax advisor regarding the applicability of these tax treaties to you and your receipt of merger consideration.
In addition, Israeli law generally exempts non‑residents of Israel (whether an individual or a corporation) from Israeli capital gains tax on the sale of shares traded on the TASE or on a
regulated market outside of Israel, such as the NYSE, provided, among other things, that (a) the shares were acquired after the date on which these shares were registered for trading, (b) such gains are not attributable to a permanent
establishment that the non‑Israeli resident maintains in Israel and (c) for shares traded on a stock exchange outside of Israel, such shareholders are not subject to the Israeli Income Tax Law (Inflationary Adjustments) 5745‑1985. These
provisions dealing with capital gain are not applicable to a person whose gains from selling or otherwise disposing of the shares are deemed to be business income. Nevertheless, a non‑Israeli “body of persons” (as defined in the Ordinance, which
includes corporations, partnerships and other entities) will not be entitled to the foregoing exemptions if Israeli residents (x) have a controlling interest of more than 25% in such non‑Israeli body of persons or (y) are the beneficiaries of or
are entitled to 25% or more of the revenues or profits of such non‑Israeli body of persons, whether directly or indirectly. Company shareholders who acquired their ZIM ordinary shares prior to January 26, 2021 (the date on which the Company
listed its shares on NYSE) and who do not qualify for an exemption from Israeli capital gains tax under the Ordinance or an applicable tax treaty to which the State of Israel is a party (which exemption requires the receipt in advance of a valid
certificate from the ITA providing for such an exemption), may be subject to Israeli capital gains tax on the disposition of their ZIM ordinary shares in the merger. Such shareholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax
consequences of the Merger to them.
As contemplated in the Merger Agreement, Parent and the Company have agreed to file requests for certain tax rulings from the ITA, requesting, among other things, as follows:
The first request (the “Withholding Tax Ruling”) will ask that the ITA either exempt Parent, the exchange agent and the surviving company (and their respective agents) from the obligation to
withhold Israeli tax at source from the per share merger consideration or provide detailed instructions on how such withholding at source is to be executed in connection with the merger. Regardless of whether we obtain the Withholding Tax Ruling
from the ITA, any holder of ZIM ordinary shares who believes that it is entitled to an exemption (or a reduced tax rate) may separately apply to the ITA to obtain a certificate of exemption from withholding or an individual tax ruling providing
an exemption from withholding or withholding at a reduced rate, and submit such certificate of exemption or ruling to the Exchange Agent at least three business days prior to the date that is 180 days following the closing date. If Parent or the
exchange agent receives a valid exemption certificate or tax ruling (in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Parent or the Israeli withholding agent) at least three business days prior to the date that is 180 days following the closing
date, then the withholding (if any) of any amounts under the Ordinance, from the per share merger consideration shall be made in accordance with the provisions of such tax certificate or tax ruling.
The second request (the “Options Tax Ruling”) will ask that the ITA confirm, among other things, that (i) the cancellation and exchange of (i) the options to purchase ZIM ordinary shares granted
under the Company’s equity plans (the “Company Options) and intended to be granted and subject to tax pursuant to Section 102(b)(2) or 102(b)(3) of the Ordinance (a “Section 102 Award”) and (ii) ZIM ordinary shares that were issued upon exercise
of Section 102 Awards and, at the closing of the merger, are issued and outstanding and held by the trustee appointed by the Company pursuant to Section 102 of the Ordinance (the “102 Trustee” and “Section 102 Shares”) for the respective merger
consideration shall not be regarded as a violation of the “requisite holding period” (as such term is defined in Section 102 of the Ordinance) so long as the consideration payable with respect to such awards or shares is deposited with the 102
Trustee until the end of the respective holding period, and released only after the lapse of the requisite holding period; and (ii) the deposit of the respective merger consideration with the 102 Trustee shall not be subject to any withholding
obligation (which ruling may be subject to customary conditions regularly associated with such a ruling). If the Options Tax Ruling is not obtained prior to the closing or in accordance with the instructions of the ITA, the Company will seek to
obtain an interim tax ruling (the “Interim Options Tax Ruling”) confirming, among other things, that Parent and anyone acting on its behalf shall be exempt from withholding Israeli tax in relation to any payment made with respect to any Section
102 Awards and Section 102 Shares to the 102 Trustee in connection with the merger. If neither the Options Tax Ruling nor the Interim Options Tax Ruling is obtained, holders of Section 102 Awards and Section 102 Shares will be subject to Israeli
tax withholding on the gross merger consideration in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Ordinance. Such merger consideration may be bifurcated, depending on the specific circumstances of such holders and the terms and the timing of
the grants of the Section 102 Awards and Section 102 Shares to such holders, to a portion subject to a fixed rate of 25% and a portion subject to such holders’ marginal tax rates under Israeli law for ordinary income, which latter portion may be
also subject to withholding for national insurance contributions and surtax.
The Company cannot assure you that such rulings will be granted before the Closing or at all or that, if obtained, such rulings will be granted under the conditions requested by us.
The Israeli tax rulings described above may not be obtained or may contain such provisions, terms and conditions as the ITA may prescribe, which may be different from those
detailed above. Certain categories of shareholders, such as holders of 5% or more of the outstanding ZIM ordinary shares of the Company, are expected to be excluded from the scope of any eventual ruling granted by the ITA, and the final
determination of the type of holders of ZIM ordinary shares who will be included in such categories will be based on the outcome of the discussions with the ITA.
Whether or not a particular ZIM shareholder is actually subject to Israeli capital gains tax in connection with the merger, unless a tax ruling or valid tax certificate issued by the ITA is
provided granting an exemption or reduction of Israeli tax withholding requirements, as detailed below, Parent, its affiliates, the exchange agent, and any other third-party paying agent may deduct and withhold from any merger consideration any
amounts that are required to be withheld under Israeli tax law. The withholding tax rates for shareholders (other than holders of 102 Shares) are currently at the rate of 25% or, for corporations, the corporate tax (currently 23%). The Israeli tax
withholding consequences of the merger to ZIM shareholders may vary depending upon the particular circumstances of each shareholder and the final tax rulings issued by the ITA.
The merger consideration payable to any person who is not governed by the Withholding Tax Ruling (other than a holder of Section 102 Awards, Section 102 Shares, and certain holders of Company
Options), whether by virtue of the Withholding Tax Ruling not being obtained or by virtue of the Withholding Tax Ruling not applying to such person (each, a “Non-Ruling Payee”), will, unless otherwise instructed by the ITA, be retained by
the exchange agent for the benefit of such Non-Ruling Payee for up to 180 days from the Closing Date or an earlier date requested in writing by such Non-Ruling Payee. During this period, no payments shall be made and no amounts will be withheld for
Israeli taxes from any such payment, except if a shareholder provides, no later than three business days before the end of the 180-day period, a valid tax certificate or other written instructions from the ITA regarding withholding, in which case
the merger consideration will be paid to that shareholder subject to any applicable non-Israeli withholding, and Israeli tax will be withheld only as specified in the certificate or instructions. If a shareholder does not provide such documentation
by the deadline, or requests early release of the consideration but fails to provide the required documentation, the amount to be withheld will be calculated according to the applicable withholding rate as reasonably determined by the Israeli
withholding agent in accordance with applicable law.
THIS SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL ISRAELI INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. HOLDERS OF ZIM ORDINARY SHARES SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS AS
TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSIDERATIONS TO THEM OF THE MERGER IN LIGHT OF THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF ANY ISRAELI TAX LAWS.
NO APPRAISAL RIGHTS IN THE MERGER
Appraisal rights, which are also sometimes known as dissenters’ rights, are statutory rights that, if applicable under law, enable shareholders to dissent from an extraordinary transaction, such as
a merger, and to demand that the company pay the fair value for their shares as determined immediately prior to the effective time of the merger in cash, instead of receiving the consideration offered to shareholders in connection with the
extraordinary transaction.
Under Israeli law, holders of ZIM ordinary shares are not entitled to statutory appraisal rights in connection with the merger.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT OF ZIM
The table below sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of ZIM ordinary shares as of March 16, 2026 by:
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•
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each person or entity known by ZIM to own beneficially 5% or more of the ZIM outstanding ordinary shares;
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•
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each of ZIM’s directors and executive officers individually; and
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•
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all of ZIM’s executive officers and directors as a group.
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The beneficial ownership of ordinary shares is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes any ordinary shares over which a person exercises sole or shared voting or
investment power, or the right to receive the economic benefit of ownership. For purposes of the table below, ZIM deems shares subject to equity-based awards that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of March 16, 2026, to be
outstanding and to be beneficially owned by the person holding the equity-based awards for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of that person, but ZIM does not treat them as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage
ownership of any other person. The percentage of shares beneficially owned is based on 120,519,497 ZIM ordinary shares outstanding as of March 16, 2026.
As of March 16, 2026, ZIM had 9 holders of record of ZIM ordinary shares in the United States, including Cede & Co., the nominee of The Depository Trust Company. These shareholders held in the
aggregate 120,459,982 of ZIM’s outstanding ordinary shares, or 99.95% of ZIM’s outstanding ordinary shares as of March 16, 2026. The number of record holders in the United States is not representative of the number of beneficial holders nor is it
representative of where such beneficial holders are resident since many of these ordinary shares were held by brokers or other nominees.
All of ZIM’s shareholders, including the shareholders listed above, have the same voting rights attached to their ordinary shares. None of ZIM’s principal shareholders, if any, or ZIM’s directors
and senior management have different or special voting rights with respect to their ordinary shares. Unless otherwise noted below, each shareholder’s address is ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., 9 Andrei Sakharov Street, Haifa, Israel.
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Shares Beneficially Owned
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Principal Shareholders
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Number
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Percentage
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Number
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%
percentage
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State of Israel(1)
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-
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-
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1
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100
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%
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Senior Management and Directors
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-
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-
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Yair Seroussi
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*
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*
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-
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-
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Anita Odedra
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-
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-
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-
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-
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Birger Johannes Meyer-Gloeckner
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*
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*
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-
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-
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Liat Tennenholtz
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-
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-
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-
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-
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Nir Epstein
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*
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*
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-
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-
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Ran Gritzerstein
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*
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|
|
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*
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|
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-
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|
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-
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Ron Hadassi
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*
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|
*
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|
|
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-
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|
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-
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William (Bill) Shaul
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*
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|
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*
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|
|
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-
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|
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-
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Yair Avidan
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|
-
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|
|
-
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|
-
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|
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-
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Yoram Turbowicz
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|
|
-
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|
-
|
|
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|
-
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|
|
-
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Eli Glickman
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*
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|
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*
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|
|
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-
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|
|
-
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David Arbel
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|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
-
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|
|
-
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Saar Dotan
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|
|
*
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
-
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Xavier Destriau
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|
|
*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
|
|
|
-
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Noam Nativ
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|
|
*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
|
|
|
-
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Nissim Yochai
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|
|
*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
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|
|
-
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Hani Kalinski
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*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
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|
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-
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Assaf Tiran
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|
*
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|
*
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|
|
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-
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|
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-
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Eyal Ben-Amram
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*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
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|
|
-
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Arik Elimelech
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|
|
*
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|
|
|
*
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|
|
|
-
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|
|
-
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Abdallah Metanes
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*
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*
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|
|
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-
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|
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-
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All senior management and directors as a group (21 persons)
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*
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*
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-
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|
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-
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*
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Less than 1%
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(1)
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For a description of the different voting rights held by the holder of the Special State Share, see “The State Share Approval” on page 75.
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Significant Changes in Ownership
To ZIM’s knowledge, other than as disclosed in the table above, in ZIM’s other filings with the SEC and in this proxy statement, there has been no significant change in the percentage ownership
held by any major shareholder of ZIM during the past three years.
Change in Control Arrangements
Other than as a result of the merger, ZIM is not aware of any arrangement that may, at a subsequent date, result in a change of control of ZIM.
HOUSEHOLDING OF PROXY MATERIALS
ZIM follows a procedure called “householding,” which the SEC has approved. Under this procedure, ZIM may deliver a single copy of the notice and, if applicable, proxy materials to multiple
shareholders who share the same address, unless ZIM has received contrary instructions from one or more of such shareholders. This procedure reduces ZIM printing costs, mailing costs, and fees. Shareholders who participate in householding will
continue to be able to access and receive separate proxy cards. Upon written or oral request, ZIM will deliver promptly a separate copy of the notice and, if applicable, proxy materials to any shareholder at a shared address to which ZIM delivered
a single copy of any of these materials. To receive a separate copy, or, if a shareholder is receiving multiple copies, to request that ZIM only send a single copy of the notice and, if applicable, proxy materials, such shareholder may contact us
at:
ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
Attn: Investor Relations
“Street name” shareholders may contact their broker, bank, or other nominee to request information about householding.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
ZIM files annual reports with the SEC and furnish current reports and other information to the SEC. ZIM’s SEC filings are available for free to the public on the SEC’s Internet website at www.sec.gov. In addition, ZIM’s filings with the SEC are also available for free to the public at the Investor Relations portion of ZIM’s website, https://investors.zim.com/overview/.
Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this document, and you should not consider information contained on those websites as part of this document.
The SEC allows ZIM to “incorporate by reference” information into this proxy statement, which means that it can disclose important information to you by referring you to other documents filed
separately with the SEC. The information incorporated by reference is deemed to be part of this proxy statement, except for any information superseded by information in this proxy statement or incorporated by reference subsequent to the date of
this proxy statement. This proxy statement incorporates by reference the documents set forth below that ZIM previously filed with the SEC. These documents contain important information about ZIM and its financial condition and are incorporated by
reference into this proxy statement.
The following ZIM filings with the SEC are incorporated by reference:
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Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, filed
on March 9, 2026; and
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•
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Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K furnished on March 19,
2026.
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ZIM also incorporates by reference into this proxy statement additional documents that it may file with the SEC pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, between the
date of this proxy statement and the earlier of the date of the ZIM special general meeting or the termination of the merger agreement. In addition, any Reports on Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6‑K furnished by ZIM to the SEC after the date of
this document until the date of the ZIM special general meeting or the termination of the merger agreement, which we identify as being incorporated by reference into this document, are also incorporated by reference herein.
You may read and copy any reports, statements or other information incorporated by reference into this document (except for the exhibits to those documents) from ZIM. You may also obtain these
documents from the SEC or through the SEC’s website, described above. You may obtain any of the documents ZIM files with the SEC, without charge and via first class mail or other prompt means, by requesting them in writing or by telephone from
ZIM at the following address and telephone number:
ZIM INTEGRATED SHIPPING SERVICES LTD.
9 Andrei Sakharov Street
P.O. Box 15067
Matam, Haifa 3190500, Israel
+972 (4) 865-2000
If you would like to request documents from ZIM, please do so as soon as possible, to receive them before the meeting.
If you have any questions concerning the merger, the meeting or the accompanying proxy statement, would like additional copies of the accompanying proxy statement or need help
voting your ZIM ordinary shares, please contact our proxy solicitor:
Sodali & Co.
430 Park Avenue, 14th Floor,
New York, New York 10022
Shareholders Call Toll Free: (800) 662-5200
Brokers and Banks may call collect: (203) 658-9400
Email: ZIM@info.sodali.com
ZIM has supplied all information relating to ZIM, and Parent has supplied, and ZIM has not independently verified, all of the information relating to Parent and Merger Sub
contained in this proxy statement.
You should rely only on the information contained in this proxy statement, the annexes to this proxy statement and the documents that we incorporate by reference in this proxy
statement in voting on the merger. ZIM has not authorized anyone to provide you with information that is different from what is contained in this proxy statement. This proxy statement is dated March 19, 2026. You should not assume that the
information contained in this proxy statement is accurate as of any date other than that date (or as of an earlier date if so indicated in this proxy statement), and the mailing of this proxy statement to shareholders does not create any
implication to the contrary. This proxy statement does not constitute a solicitation of a proxy in any jurisdiction where, or to or from any person to whom, it is unlawful to make a proxy solicitation.
The ZIM board currently knows of no other business to be transacted at the meeting, other than as set forth in the notice of the meeting, dated March 19, 2026; but, if any
other matter is properly presented at the meeting, the persons named in the enclosed form of proxy will vote upon such matters in accordance with their best judgment.
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Sincerely,
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Yair Seroussi
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Chairman of the ZIM board
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