Mergers and acquisitions

The following bids, mergers, acquisitions and disposals were reported by 0930 GMT on Wednesday:

** Merck <MRK.N> is nearing a $10 billion deal to buy lung diseases focussed Verona Pharma <VRNA.O>, as the U.S. drugmaker is eyeing deals to offset the upcoming patent expiry of its blockbuster cancer drug, the Financial Times reported.

** Uniper <UN0k.DE> said it would sell its 18.26% shareholding stake in AS Latvijas Gaze to Energy Investments SIA, as the German utility fulfills one of the conditions of a government bailout it received in 2022.

** Italy's Leonardo <LDOF.MI> has agreed to buy Sweden's Axiomatics, a source told Reuters , marking a further step in the company's efforts to expand its cybersecurity business.

** Tokio Marine Group's corporate member, Tokio Marine Underwriting Limited (TMUL), has launched an offer to buy out Names capacity on Syndicate 510, three senior market sources told The Insurer.

** Parcel locker firm InPost <INPST.AS> has acquired Spanish delivery company Sending to enhance its presence in the Iberian Peninsula and integrate the 24-hour door-to-door delivery service previously provided by Sending, it said.

** Meta Platforms <META.O> has acquired a nearly 3% stake in eyewear maker EssilorLuxottica <ESLX.PA>, a source told Reuters on Tuesday, amid growing consumer interest in AI-powered wearable devices.