No rush to decide on EADS-BAE merger
Germany's defence minister, Thomas De Maizière, reckons the October 10th deadline for thrashing out details of a merger between EADS and BAE Systems might be on the optimistic side.
Germany's defence minister, Thomas De Maizire, reckons the October 10th deadline for thrashing out details of a merger between EADS and BAE Systems might be on the optimistic side.
"Perhaps we need more time. It depends on the answers for our questions and so I think we need more time," Thomas de Maizire told reporters in Nicosia, when asked about the proposed tie-up between Airbus owner EADS and British defence firm BAE.
De Maizire revealed he had constructive discussions with his French and British counterparts on Wednesday evening, but the proposed merger is a complex issue, not least because of national security concerns. Under the current proposal, France's EADS would be the senior partner of the combined entity, which might not sit well with some of BAE Systems' military customers.
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
De Maizire said it was not for him to determine whether the currently proposed 60/40 post-merger weighting in favour of EADS was appropriate.
EADS and BAE Systems have said they will offer France, Germany and Britain a "golden share" in the new company, enabling them to veto any future takeover.
JH
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Michelin Key Hotels 2025: the top destinations in the world
The Michelin Keys have been awarded to spectacular hotels across the world. From Marlon Brando's private resort in Polynesia to a Bvlgari hotel in Tokyo, we look at some of the most extraordinary stays in 2025
-
MoneyWeek news quiz: How much could you get in car finance compensation?
The car finance scandal, inheritance tax, and house prices all made headlines over the past few days. Test your knowledge while reviewing this week’s top stories with MoneyWeek’s news quiz