Roche CEO knocks back speculation of Novartis merger

ZURICH (Reuters) - Swiss drugmaker Roche on Thursday knocked back recent speculation it could merge with cross-town rival Novartis. "Let me be very clear on that point. Nothing has changed with regard to Roche's position towards Novartis," Chief Executive Severin Schwan told journalists on a call. "The families Hoffmann and Oeri - which own the majority of Roche's voting shares - have repeatedly stated their commitment to Roche's independence." (Reporting by Caroline Copley)