Morgan Stanley Europe SE has released a Form 8.5 (EPT/NON-RI) public opening position disclosure/dealing disclosure related to Ascential plc. The disclosure, dated 19 August 2024, provides key information about the exempt principal trader, including the relevant securities, interests, short positions, and dealings. The form details the purchases and sales of 1.7p ordinary shares, with 3,644 securities bought and sold at a price of 5.7150 GBP per unit. The disclosure also includes information about cash-settled and stock-settled derivative transactions, as well as other relevant details.

The form indicates that Morgan Stanley Europe SE currently holds no relevant securities and has no short positions in Ascential plc. It also states that there are no rights to subscribe for new securities. The disclosure further outlines the purchases and sales of 1.7p ordinary shares, with specific details on the total number of securities, highest and lowest price per unit paid/received, and the nature of the dealings.

Additionally, the form includes sections on cash-settled derivative transactions, stock-settled derivative transactions (including options), and other dealings, providing a comprehensive overview of the exempt principal trader's activities related to Ascential plc. The disclosure concludes with information on indemnity and other dealing arrangements, agreements, arrangements, or understandings relating to options or derivatives, and the absence of any supplemental form or attachments.

The disclosure is in compliance with Rule 8 of the Takeover Code and provides a detailed overview of Morgan Stanley Europe SE's position and dealings with Ascential plc as of the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure, offering transparency and insight into the exempt principal trader's activities related to the company.