- Reynolds American (NYSE:RAI) may announce its purchase of Lorillard (NYSE:LO) as early as July 14, Bloomberg reports.
- Many rumors have been circulating in the past few weeks regarding big tobacco M&A, as shrinking U.S. demand for cigarettes puts pressure on companies to team up.
- Under the current deal, Reynolds would acquire most of Lorillard, with some brands being acquired by Imperial Tobacco (ITYBY), to receive regulatory approval. British American Tobacco (NYSEMKT:BTI), who owns a 42% in Reynolds, is said to have already given the company the go-ahead for the purchase.
- The new report conflicts with another rumor heard this week stating British American Tobacco will buy the 58% of Reynolds American it doesn't already own - cancelling any possible deal with Lorillard.