NYSE Euronext Shareholders Back Merger With Deutsche Boerse
Tuesday, July 12, 2011

NYSE Euronext has announced that its shareholders have approved the adoption of the business combination agreement with Deutsche Boerse AG and related proposals.

The proposals, which required approval by a majority of the outstanding shares or in some cases a majority of shares voted of NYSE Euronext common stock, were approved at a special shareholders meeting held on July 7 in New York. Based on preliminary results, approximately 96.09% of the shares present at the special meeting voted for the approval of the combination, representing 65.68% of NYSE Euronext’s outstanding common shares.

“We are delighted that our shareholders support the value inherent in this compelling combination with Deutsche Boerse and recognize the substantial benefits the combined company will be positioned to provide,” said Jan-Michiel Hessels, Chairman of the Board of NYSE Euronext.

“This approval is an important milestone in our path to completing this combination, bringing us one step closer to creating the premier global venue for capital raising and a world leader in derivatives and risk management. I would like to thank our shareholders for their careful consideration and engagement on this historic proposal, and for their strong validation of the long-term value we believe we will create,” said Duncan L. Niederauer, CEO of NYSE Euronext.

Completion of the combination is subject to a 75% acceptance level of the exchange offer to Deutsche Boerse shareholders; approval by the relevant competition and financial, securities and other regulatory authorities in the US and Europe; and customary closing conditions. The acceptance period during which shareholders of Deutsche Boerse can tender their shares in exchange for shares in the new combined company will end on July 13, 2011.

Reto Francioni, CEO of Deutsche Börse AG and designated Chairman of the future joint holding company, said: "The shareholders of NYSE Euronext have clearly voted in favour of the growth perspectives and the value potential. Now the shareholders of Deutsche Börse have also their chance to participate."