Siemens Said to Weigh Options for Its Osram Division

Siemens AG, Europe’s largest engineering company, is exploring options for its Osram lighting business, including a possible initial public offering or sale, according to three people with knowledge of the discussions.

Siemens, based in Munich, has held preliminary talks with investment banks about the viability of a transaction involving Osram, said the people, who declined to be identified because talks are private. No decision has been made and Siemens may keep the unit, they said. Siemens may consider an IPO or sales process for the first half of next year, said one of the people.