Mercedes-Benz settles diesel emissions case for $150 million in U.S. deal
Mercedes-Benz has agreed to pay around $150 million to settle diesel emissions allegations in the U.S. The payment resolves claims involving over 211,000 vehicles sold between 2008 and 2016. The deal covers 48 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, bringing legal clarity to the automaker.
The settlement follows accusations that certain Mercedes-Benz diesel models exceeded legal emission limits. By resolving the case, the company avoids prolonged litigation and reduces uncertainty for shareholders. Part of the funds will support consumer protection initiatives managed by U.S. states.
In recent weeks, Mercedes-Benz has also ramped up its share buyback programme. Nearly 700,000 shares were repurchased in the week before Christmas, bringing the total for the current cycle to over 5 million. This move signals management’s confidence in the company’s financial health and provides a technical floor for the stock. The stock currently trades at €59.03, slightly above its 50-day moving average of €58.67. Since January, shares have climbed 11.36%, though they remain around 5% below their 52-week high of €62.17. Analysts place fair value at roughly €62, suggesting modest upside potential remains.
The settlement removes a legal overhang, allowing investors to shift focus to Mercedes-Benz’s operational recovery. With share buybacks reinforcing stability, the company heads into the year-end on firmer ground. The agreement also directs funds toward state-level consumer protection efforts in the U.S.
