Alcan Steels Itself Against Alcoa Bid

Canadian aluminum producer rejects US rival, says it will seek other offers
By J. Kelman,  Newser User
Posted May 22, 2007 6:17 PM CDT
Alcan Steels Itself Against Alcoa Bid
Alcoa chairman and CEO Alain Belda explains his company's hostile bid for Canadian aluminum rival Alcan Inc., Monday, May 7, 2007 in Montreal. The bid, worth nearly $27 billion, comes after failing in almost two years of private talks to reach a negotiated deal. (AP Photo/CP, Paul Chiasson)   (Associated Press)

Canadian aluminum maker Alcan has rejected the $24.7-billion bid from rival Alcoa that would have been the biggest takeover in the metals industry, and signalled its intention to look elsewhere. Alcoa’s  $74.60-per-share bid was inadequate, Alcan’s CEO said today, reigniting rumors that both companies may be ripe takeover targets.

Alcoa had hoped the deal would help it buck Chinese and Russian rivals, and the company is expected to up its offer. But some observers think the money won't help. "Alcan is even more of a national icon in Canada than Alcoa is in the US,'' says an analyst. "The backlash could make this a very difficult deal to get done." (More Alcan stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X