CVS Nears Deal For Aetna

Bloomberg News

CVS Health Corp. is nearing an agreement to acquire health insurer Aetna Inc. for more than $65 billion, according to a person familiar with the negotiations, in a deal that could reshape the pharmacy and health insurance industries.

An announcement could come as soon as Monday, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private. CVS is likely to agree to pay at least $200 a share for Aetna, with more than 30 percent paid for with cash, according to the person. Talks could still be delayed or fall apart.

Timing of the potential deal was first reported by The Wall Street Journal on Thursday. Aetna and CVS declined to comment.

A deal between Aetna and CVS could upend the health insurance, pharmacy and drug benefit sectors. Many of the biggest players in those industries also are looking over their shoulders at Amazon.com Inc., which has been reported to be exploring various health-care businesses.

It also would come less than a year after two major health insurance deals — between Anthem Inc. and Cigna Corp., and Aetna and Humana Inc., fell apart amid antitrust challenges.

Aetna’s shares are still trading well below the reported deal price, a sign that investors believe the deal may not close.