Nippon Steel Pushes U.S. Steel Acquisition To 2025

Japan's Nippon Steel has announced an extension of the closing period for its $15 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel. Initially, the closing was projected for the third or fourth quarter of 2024 but has been pushed to the first quarter of 2025.

Nippon Steel's share price (TYO: 5401) ended the day 1.52% in the green.

A significant aspect of the delay is the involvement of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), which has referred the acquisition decision to U.S. President Joe Biden. The President is presented with a 15-day period to determine whether the acquisition should proceed or be blocked. This decision comes amid opposition expressed by both President Biden and former President Donald Trump.

In light of this political scrutiny, Nippon Steel remains hopeful for an objective evaluation by the U.S. authorities. The company has expressed its desire for a review process that prioritizes fairness and factual accuracy.

Additionally, the antitrust division of the U.S. Department of Justice is conducting its review of the merger. This review assesses the implications of the acquisition on market competition, which is crucial in gaining regulatory approval.

The extension of the timeline provides both Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel additional time to address any concerns raised by the U.S. administration and regulatory bodies. The outcome of this process will significantly impact the steel industry, particularly in the context of international ownership and collaboration.

The acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel remains under significant review. Stakeholders are closely watching the developments as they unfold and await the decision by the U.S. administration that could influence the future of the steel market globally.