Chart shareholders approve $13.6bn acquisition by Baker Hughes

Core Viewpoint - Chart Industries has received shareholder approval for its acquisition by Baker Hughes, valued at up to $13.6 billion, with the transaction expected to close by mid-2026 pending regulatory approvals [1][2]. Company Overview - Chart Industries specializes in designing, engineering, and manufacturing process technologies and equipment for gas and liquid molecule handling [2][3]. - The company operates 65 manufacturing sites and over 50 service centers globally, reporting revenues of $4.2 billion and adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) of $1 billion last year [3]. Acquisition Details - Baker Hughes will acquire all outstanding shares of Chart's common stock for $210 per share in cash [1]. - The acquisition aims to enhance Baker Hughes' position in energy and industrial solutions, particularly strengthening its Industrial & Energy Technology segment [3]. Strategic Implications - The deal is expected to expand Baker Hughes' reach in high-growth markets such as liquefied natural gas, data centers, and clean energy, thereby enhancing its earnings and cash flow resilience [4]. - Baker Hughes' chairman and CEO highlighted the company's strong total shareholder returns of 340% over the past five years, indicating a successful strategy that the acquisition aims to build upon [5]. Advisory Roles - Goldman Sachs & Co., Centerview Partners, and Morgan Stanley & Co. are serving as financial advisers to Baker Hughes, while Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton and WilmerHale are legal advisers [4]. - Wells Fargo is acting as financial adviser and Winston & Strawn as legal adviser to Chart [4].