The Federal Trade Commission announced its decision to challenge Linde AG’s proposed $14.4 billion acquisition of The BOC Group plc. The FTC’s complaint alleges that the acquisition as originally structured would have increased the likelihood that customers would be forced to pay higher prices for liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen, and bulk refined helium in certain markets.
Linde AG settled, agreeing to sell air separation units and other assets related to the production of liquid oxygen and nitrogen in eight locations across the United States. Linde also must sell bulk refined helium assets, including helium source contracts, distribution assets, and customer contracts to Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation.
To learn more, read the Decision and Order and the Analysis of Agreement Containing Consent Orders to Aid Public Comment.
