NYSE Euronext (NYSE: NYX) today announced that its shareholders have approved the acquisition of the Company by IntercontinentalExchange (NYSE: ICE), a combination that joins two of the world’s leading operators of markets and exchanges to create the premier global exchange operator.
The proposal, which required approval by a majority of the outstanding shares, was approved at a special shareholders meeting held today in New York. Based on preliminary results, approximately 99% of the shares present at the special meeting voted for the approval of the combination, representing approximately 64% of NYSE Euronext’s outstanding common shares. The proposals relating to executive compensation and adjournment were also approved with approximately 85% and 90%, respectively.
“We are grateful that our shareholders have overwhelmingly recognized the opportunity for long-term value creation and greater benefits for our customers by combining these two highly complementary businesses,” said Jan-Michiel Hessels, Chairman of the Board of NYSE Euronext.
“Today is an important step toward completing this exciting combination, and ensuring the long-term success of the New York Stock Exchange group, Liffe, and our Euronext platform,” said Duncan L. Niederauer, CEO of NYSE Euronext. “I would like to thank our shareholders for their deliberate consideration and engagement during the last six months, and we now look forward to working with our regulators to secure the remaining approvals required to complete the transaction in the second half of this year.”
Completion of the combination is subject to approval by relevant competition and other regulatory authorities in the U.S. and Europe, as well as customary closing conditions.