Guest Lecture: Exciting Insights into M&A Tax at Henkel

On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the International Taxation and Law, B.A. program had the honor of experiencing a special highlight in the course “Transfer Pricing” taught by Prof. Dr. habil. Ute Merbecks. Moritz Bettray (Manager M&A Tax & Certified Tax Advisor) and Leif-Ole Baehr (Junior Manager Tax) from Henkel AG & Co. KGaA provided exciting insights into the world of M&A Tax – practical, engaging, and inspiring.

The lecture began with an introduction to the Henkel Group, followed by the main topic of M&A Tax. It was illustrated how transfer pricing plays a central role as a key element of tax planning during the phases of acquisitions and VC investments, as well as during subsequent integration. The speakers demonstrated how transfer pricing aspects must already be considered when structuring transactions and how they are practically implemented and adjusted after the acquisition as part of the integration of new entities. This clearly highlighted the close interconnection between the Transfer Pricing course and key issues in the M&A context.

“The guest lecture was a great opportunity to learn about M&A Tax first-hand and to understand its practical application in a globally operating company like Henkel,” summarized an enthusiastic student.

This practice-oriented exchange once again demonstrates the value of linking academic studies with the business world – and how inspiring it can be to benefit from the experiences of industry experts.

We would like to sincerely thank Henkel and the two speakers, Moritz and Leif-Ole, for this insightful and motivating presentation!