Guardian Capital Secures Court Approval for Significant Acquisition

Guardian Capital Group Limited has successfully obtained final approval from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for its proposed plan of arrangement involving a significant acquisition. This decision, announced on October 28, 2025, allows Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc., a subsidiary of Desjardins Group, to purchase all outstanding common and Class A shares of Guardian for C$68.00 per share in cash.

The court’s final order follows a special meeting held on October 23, 2025, where shareholders overwhelmingly approved the arrangement. This approval is a critical step in the process, reflecting strong support from Guardian’s investors.

Next Steps for the Arrangement

While the court’s approval is a significant milestone, the completion of the arrangement is contingent upon satisfying several closing conditions outlined in the arrangement agreement dated August 28, 2025. These conditions include obtaining necessary regulatory approvals, particularly under the Competition Act (Canada). Guardian anticipates that the transaction will finalize in the first half of 2026, provided all conditions are met.

About Guardian Capital Group

Founded in 1962, Guardian Capital Group Limited is a prominent global investment management firm that serves a diverse range of clients, including institutional, retail, and private investors. As of June 30, 2025, the company managed total client assets amounting to C$164.1 billion and held a proprietary investment portfolio valued at C$1.25 billion. The firm’s commitment to integrity, stability, and trust has established its reputation over six decades.

The common and Class A shares of Guardian are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbols GCG and GCG.A, respectively. For more information about Guardian, visit their official website.

Forward-Looking Information

This announcement also includes forward-looking information as defined by Canadian securities laws. Such information may address expectations regarding future financial performance, business strategies, and anticipated events related to the arrangement. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to various risks and uncertainties.

The potential completion of the arrangement and the timing of regulatory approvals could significantly impact Guardian’s business and share price. Factors such as economic conditions, market volatility, and changes in government regulations may also play a role in achieving the anticipated outcomes.

Given these uncertainties, Guardian encourages stakeholders to consider the risks outlined in its disclosure materials and to refrain from placing undue reliance on forward-looking information, which is valid only as of the date of this release.

For inquiries, Guardian Capital’s Investor Relations can be contacted at [email protected] or by phone at 416-364-8341, toll-free at 1-800-253-9181. For media inquiries, please reach out to Mark Noble at [email protected] or 416-350-8109.