UAE
Abu Dhabi developers start merger negotiations
DUBAI | Aldar Properties, the struggling Abu Dhabi real estate developer, said Sunday it is launching talks with its smaller rival, Sorouh Real Estate, about a possible merger.
It would be supported by the Gulf emirate’s government.
The proposed tie-up would unite the Emirati capital’s two most prominent property developers as they grapple with a deep property slump that has gripped the United Arab Emirates since prices peaked in 2008.
Aldar already received some $10 billion in government aid through two bailout rounds last year.
It is majority owned by the Abu Dhabi government and was a key driver of the sheikdom’s development, including its signature project, Yas Island, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix auto race.
The companies outlined plans for the possible merger in brief statements to the emirate’s stock exchange. They said the negotiations carry “the blessing of the government of Abu Dhabi,” though they did not outline what financial support, if any, the state would provide.
It was not immediately clear how the deal would be structured.
Haissam Arabi, chief executive and fund manager at Gulfmena Investments in Dubai, said a merger could benefit both companies.
“The combined entity would make a mega-master developer with solid financials and government backing,” Mr. Arabi said. Abu Dhabi might be willing to provide additional financial support to the merged company if needed, he added.
A working group will be formed to study the legal and commercial implications of the proposed merger. It is expected to make recommendations to senior management of both developers within three months, the companies said.
NORTH CAROLINA
Data-center construction under way for Apple Inc.
MAIDEN | Construction work is under way at Apple Inc.’s data center in North Carolina, which will be powered in part by a private solar farm being built by the company.
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