Milliarden-Übernahme im US-Gasmarkt

EQT Corp, a major U.S. natural gas producer, has announced the acquisition of its rival Range Resources in a billion-dollar deal. The transaction, valued at over $50 billion including debt, will create the largest vertically integrated natural gas producer in the country. Range Resources shareholders will receive 0.987 EQT shares for each of their shares, equivalent to a price of $54.91 per share and a 20.6% premium over Friday's closing price.

The pure asset value of the acquisition is around $12.8 billion. The deal is expected to boost demand for natural gas, driven by the expansion of data centers. The combined entity will produce more than 250 million cubic meters of natural gas equivalent per day and control a 1.2 million hectare area in the Appalachian Basin, with reserves for over 30 years and a pipeline of nearly 6,000 kilometers.

Following the expected closing of the deal in the first quarter of 2027, EQT shareholders will hold around 73% of the new company, while Range shareholders will hold the remaining 27%. Current EQT management will lead the joint venture, with the headquarters remaining in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Two Range representatives, including CEO Dennis Degner, will join the EQT board.

EQT expects to achieve annual savings of around $325 million within two years of the merger. The deal still requires approval from regulators and shareholders.