In a significant move that will make it the largest flat-rolled steel producer in North America, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., the largest U.S. producer of iron ore pellets, has agreed to purchase the U.S. assets of the world’s largest steelmaker ArcelorMittal SA for approximately $1.4 billion in cash and shares.
Deal Announced by Both Companies
The deal was announced on Monday by both companies, with Cleveland-Cliffs stating that it will acquire ArcelorMittal’s U.S. operations through a combination of cash and stock. The acquisition is expected to expand Cleveland-Cliffs’ presence in the North American market and provide ArcelorMittal with a significant stake in the company.
ArcelorMittal Shares Rise
Following the announcement, ArcelorMittal shares surged by 8.3% in early trading, although they still have not fully recovered from last week’s losses due to concerns over the economic recovery being hindered by rising coronavirus cases.
Deal Structure
According to Reuters, who reported on Sunday that ArcelorMittal was in talks with Cleveland-Cliffs to merge its U.S. operations, the deal will see ArcelorMittal receive $505 million upfront in cash and the remaining two-thirds in the form of equity. This will give ArcelorMittal an initial stake of 16% in Cleveland-Cliffs, which could rise to 25.5%.
Liabilities Included in Deal
The acquisition also includes $2 billion of liabilities, including those linked to pensions, putting the overall deal value at approximately $3.4 billion.
ArcelorMittal’s Offloading Strategy
This deal marks a significant step in ArcelorMittal’s strategy to offload assets and reduce its debt. The company has previously agreed to sell stakes in its shipping business and Brazilian steelmaker Gerdau, with the aim of reaching its target of offloading $2 billion worth of assets.
Impact on U.S. Operations
The acquisition will also have a significant impact on ArcelorMittal’s U.S. operations, which employ over 18,000 people across 25 facilities, including mines, steel-making facilities, and finishing operations. The company produced 12.9 million tonnes of steel in 2019.
North American Presence
ArcelorMittal has stated that it will continue to serve the North American market through its Canadian and Mexican operations, which together made 9 million tonnes of steel last year. The company also operates a steel processing facility in Calvert, Alabama, in partnership with Nippon Steel.
Key Points
- Cleveland-Cliffs to acquire U.S. assets of ArcelorMittal for $1.4 billion
- Deal will make Cleveland-Cliffs the largest flat-rolled steel producer in North America
- ArcelorMittal to receive $505 million upfront in cash and remaining two-thirds in equity
- Acquisition includes $2 billion of liabilities, putting overall deal value at approximately $3.4 billion
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