In conjunction with this transaction, Alta Mesa will assume all of Meridian’s outstanding obligations, including those under the company’s senior secured credit agreement and its equipment loan agreement.
The definitive agreement and plan of merger was unanimously approved by Meridian’s board of directors, and the board has recommended that Meridian shareholders vote in favor of the merger agreement. In addition, Meridian received all necessary consents under its applicable loan agreements.
As per the terms of the merger agreement, Meridian stockholders would receive $0.29 per share in cash, representing a premium of approximately 12% to Meridian’s closing share price of $0.26 on December 22, 2009.
The transaction is subject to the approval of Meridian’s shareholders and other closing conditions, and is expected to close in the first half of 2010. In connection with the transaction, Rivington Securities (FINRA member), a subsidiary of Rivington Capital Advisors, and J.P. Morgan Securities acted as financial adviser to Meridian, and Morgan Keegan & Company, provided an opinion to Meridian’s board of directors.
The Meridian Resource is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the exploration, exploitation, acquisition and development of oil and natural gas in Louisiana, Texas, and the Gulf of Mexico.
