TAQA, the Emirati energy group, is considering acquiring Spanish gas company Naturgy. In response to speculation published in the press, TAQA clarified that no agreement has been reached with CriteriaCaixa or GIP, and there is no guarantee that any operation will be implemented. The CNMV had suspended trading of Naturgy shares after information about a possible takeover bid by TAQA and negotiations between the main shareholder funds and the potential buyer. However, after communicating with the CNMV, the suspension was lifted, leading to an increase in Naturgy shares.
If the acquisition were to occur, a public takeover offer for the entire capital would need to be made as both funds (CVC and GIP) have more than 20% of the shares respectively, exceeding the 30% limit set by law to launch a takeover bid. This potential acquisition has raised questions about the future of Naturgy and its shareholders. The negotiations between TAQA and CriteriaCaixa are ongoing, but it remains uncertain whether any operation will be implemented.
The liquidity of Naturgy’s shares and market conditions have influenced these negotiations. Regulatory bodies such as CNMV and CNMC will have to review this transaction before it can proceed further. The outcome of these talks and regulatory approvals will determine whether Naturaly continues to operate independently or becomes part of TAQA’s operations in Spain.
It is worth noting that TAQA has been listed on the stock exchange for 19 years and operates in various countries including Spain. A potential acquisition of Naturgy by TAQA would not only affect this company but also its shareholders.
In conclusion, while there have been talks between TAQA and CriteriaCaixa regarding a possible acquisition of shares in Naturgy, no agreement has been reached yet. The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain due to regulatory approval requirements and market conditions.
The potential acquisition has raised concerns about how Naturaly’s future looks like if it were taken over by an energy group like TAQA from another country. While it is clear that natural gas companies are always looking for new opportunities for expansion or consolidation, this particular deal could have far-reaching implications for both parties involved.
As such, investors should closely monitor developments related to this acquisition possibility carefully before making any investment decisions related to either company.
