GDF Suez bid for International Power

The rumors have picked up this weekend in the British press about GDF Suez and the acquisition of British rival International Power. The group confirmed in a statement Monday morning that "discussions are continuing" on a rapprochement between the two groups.

"This merger would be achieved by issuing new shares in International Power profits of GDF Suez, which would become the majority shareholder of the new group International Power," the statement said.

The Mail on Sunday newspaper suggests an offer of 6.4 billion pounds (7.6 billion euros), or 420 pence per share. It is expected that International Power pays a special dividend in cash to compensate its shareholders.

"The new group International Power is listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange, also states the release.

The Financial Times and the Mail on Sunday explained that negotiations between the two groups, which had ended without success in January, resumed two weeks ago. Through this transaction, GDF Suez wants to both increase its electricity production capacity from 68 to 100 GW and develop its international activities.

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