LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd. (LPL)

[mlkrborn]

WSJ reports computer-monitor maker Innolux Display agreed to acquire Chi Mei Optoelectronics in a 172 billion New Taiwan dollar ($5.3 billion) all-stock deal that extends the reach of Taiwanese technology manufacturing tycoon Terry Gou. The purchase of Chi Mei, announced Saturday, marks the second acquisition in less than two months for Innolux, which leads the world in shipments of flat-panel computer monitors. The deal, a 26% premium to Chi Mei's market value based on Friday's closing prices, reflects intensifying competition among Asia's major producers of liquid-crystal- display panels used in TV sets and flat-screen monitors. The rivalry is especially heated among Taiwanese and South Korean companies, which are scrambling to increase their share in the rapidly growing Chinese market. (Stocks mentioned: AUO, LPL)