CNOOC’s $15.1-billion takeover of Nexen clears final regulatory hurdle

CALGARY – A U.S. agency has given the final approval required for the acquisition of Calgary-based Nexen Inc. (TSX:NXY) by CNOOC, one of China’s largest energy companies.

The US$15.1-billion friendly takeover had broad implications in Canada and elsewhere, due to Nexen’s extensive holdings in Alberta’s oilsands, Gulf of Mexico and the North Sea.

Nexen says the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States has now given its approval, clearing the way to close the deal in the week of Feb. 25.

Canada approved the deal in December afterextensive debate about ownership of major resources by foreign state-owned entities such as CNOOC.

The Harper government approved the Nexen takeover under the old rules but introduced new guidelines that will limit similar deals in the future.

China, Britain and the European Union have also given their go ahead for the Nexen takeover.