8-KMaterial AgreementsExhibits & Filings

NASDAQ, INC. 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Nov 16, 2007)

Filed November 16, 2007For Securities:NDAQ

Summary

This Form 8-K filing by The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. (Nasdaq) details significant definitive agreements entered into on November 15, 2007, with Borse Dubai Limited and its affiliates regarding strategic transactions involving OMX AB (publ) and the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX). Key among these is the "OMX Transaction Agreement," which outlines a revised plan for Nasdaq and Borse Dubai's involvement with OMX. Borse Dubai will proceed with its offer for OMX, and upon successful acquisition, will sell a substantial portion of OMX shares to Nasdaq. This transaction will result in Nasdaq acquiring approximately 42 million shares of its common stock and a cash payment to Borse Dubai, with Nasdaq ultimately acquiring a controlling stake in OMX. The "DIFX Transaction Agreement" details Nasdaq's acquisition of a 33.33% equity stake in DIFX for $50 million, which is to occur simultaneously with the OMX transactions. These agreements represent a complex strategic realignment for Nasdaq, aiming to expand its global reach and influence in the financial market infrastructure sector. Investors should note the intricate conditions and timelines associated with these transactions, including regulatory approvals and offer acceptance thresholds, which are crucial for their completion.

Key Highlights

  • 1Nasdaq entered into definitive agreements with Borse Dubai on November 15, 2007, concerning OMX AB and DIFX.
  • 2Nasdaq will acquire approximately 42 million shares of its common stock and cash consideration from Borse Dubai after Borse Dubai acquires OMX.
  • 3Borse Dubai's offer for OMX is contingent on various conditions, including regulatory approvals and minimum shareholder acceptances (reduced to over 50%).
  • 4Nasdaq will withdraw its own offer for OMX in favor of Borse Dubai's transaction.
  • 5Nasdaq will invest $50 million to acquire a 33.33% equity stake in DIFX.
  • 6Both transactions are conditioned on simultaneous closing and receipt of necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals.
  • 7The agreements include detailed representations, warranties, and indemnification provisions between the parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nasdaq announced two main agreements: the OMX Transaction Agreement and the DIFX Transaction Agreement. The OMX agreement details a plan where Borse Dubai will acquire OMX, and then sell a portion of its OMX shares to Nasdaq. The DIFX agreement outlines Nasdaq's investment in the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX).

Under the OMX Transaction Agreement, Borse Dubai will make an offer for OMX. If successful, Borse Dubai will exercise its options and then sell the acquired OMX shares to Nasdaq. Nasdaq will provide cash and approximately 42 million shares of its common stock to Borse Dubai in exchange for these OMX shares.

Nasdaq will acquire a 33.33% equity stake in DIFX for $50 million. This transaction is a condition for the completion of the OMX transactions and vice-versa, requiring a simultaneous closing.

Key conditions include the satisfaction or waiver of various conditions related to material adverse effects on OMX, DIFX, and Nasdaq; accuracy of representations and warranties; compliance with covenants; receipt of regulatory and shareholder approvals; and the absence of legal prohibitions. Both the OMX and DIFX transactions must close simultaneously.