Chesapeake Energy and Southwestern Energy Nearing $17 Billion Merger

The deal, expected as early as next week, would create the largest U.S. natural gas-focused exploration and production firm by market value.

Chesapeake Energy and Southwestern Energy are nearing a merger that could create a nearly $17 billion company.
The deal could be finalized as early as next week, provided the talks do not fall apart.
The merger would make the combined entity the largest natural gas-focused exploration and production firm in the U.S. by market value.
Shares of Southwestern and Chesapeake closed more than 7% and 3%, respectively, after the merger talks were reported.
The deal comes amid a backdrop of sluggish U.S. natural gas prices and a rapid consolidation in the energy sector.