Alstom is pleased with the decisions of the European Commission (EC) and US Department of Justice (DOJ) authorising General Electric to acquire Alstom’s Energy businesses with commitments. The decisions conclude constructive discussions during the recent months between the companies and the authorities. “In addition to fulfilling the authorities’ wish to maintain the level of competition in the market, General Electric’s commitments protect the interests of Alstom employees, shareholders and customers”, said Patrick Kron, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alstom.
Overall around twenty authorisations have been granted in total, enabling the project to enter its final phase. The closing of the transaction is targeted as early as possible in the fourth quarter 2015 and will be followed by a General Meeting which will submit a public share buy-back offer to the shareholders (Offre publique de rachat d’actions, OPRA). While the Energy businesses will secure a future in General Electric and in the joint ventures to be formed, this transaction will enable Alstom, focused on its Transport business, to pursue an ambitious growth strategy.