Italgas S.p.A. (IG.MI)

Italgas' main shareholder ready to support acquisition of rival

Cdp Reti, the main shareholder of Italian gas distributor Italgas, is in favour of the possible acquisition of smaller rival 2i Rete Gas and is "willing to evaluate forms of support" for the deal, it said in a statement. Italgas said on Monday it had started exclusive talks to buy 100% of 2i Rete Gas, a step that would consolidate Italy's gas distribution market. "Considering the strategic role of the infrastructure and energy sectors," Cdp Reti looks "favorably on the possibility of the transaction, ... recognizing the potential industrial value," the state-controlled holding company said.