Reuters — J.M. Smucker on Monday agreed to buy Twinkies maker Hostess Brands for US$5.6 billion including debt in a deal that unites two major American snack makers. The deal was worth about $4.6 billion excluding debt, with Jif peanut butter maker Smucker paying Hostess shareholders $34.25 per share (all figures US$). The cash-and-stock offer […] Read more

J.M. Smucker to buy Twinkies maker Hostess in US$5.6 billion deal
'Very surprised (anyone) is paying this amount'

Deal for Subway chain worth up to US$9.55 billion
Arby's, Jimmy John's parent wins with 'earn-out' deal
New York | Reuters — Private equity firm Roark Capital agreed on Thursday to buy Subway, in a deal that people familiar with the matter said values the U.S. sandwich chain at up to US$9.55 billion, including debt, subject to targets in its financial performance. The deal marks the conclusion of a drawn-out auction that […] Read more

Viterra in talks to merge with Bunge, source says
Merger would vault Viterra into top tier of grain trade
Reuters — Global grain trader Viterra is in talks to merge with U.S. rival Bunge Ltd., according to a person familiar with the matter, in a potential mega-deal that would reshape the top tier of global grains merchants. There is no certainty that Viterra, part-owned by Switzerland-based mining and trading giant Glencore, will be able […] Read more