1996-2001
Syngenta is created through the merger of the agribusiness units of Novartis and AstraZeneca.
The antiviral products Famvir and Vectavir/Denavir are acquired from SmithKline Beecham.
Novartis American Depositary Shares (ADSs) are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
Dr. Daniel Vasella becomes Chairman of the Board of Directors, retaining his position as Chief Executive Officer.The Novartis Research Foundation announces establishment of the Novartis Institute for Functional Genomics.
Novartis announces an agreement to acquire Merck's crop protection business.In December 1996, Novartis is created through the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz to create one of the world's largest healthcare companies.