Kimberly-Clark completes Kenvue acquisition, forming a consumer health giant

Kimberly-Clark has closed its acquisition of Kenvue, combining portfolios that include 10 billion-dollar brands across complementary categories and geographies. The company reiterated its expectation of $2.1 billion in run-rate synergies, with a value-capture plan and pipeline already mapped out. CEO Mike Hsu called the closing a defining moment in the company's 154-year history.

Why it matters: The deal turns the Kleenex and Huggies maker into what it calls the preeminent global consumer health and wellness leader, now under pressure to deliver on its synergy promises.