Baker Hughes Shares Dip 0.48% as $13.6B Chart Acquisition Sparks 21.7% Volume Drop, Ranking 204th in Market Activity

On July 30, 2025, Baker Hughes (BKR) closed at a 0.48% decline, with a trading volume of $0.57 billion, a 21.72% drop from the previous day, ranking 204th in market activity. The stock’s performance coincided with the announcement of a $13.6 billion cash acquisition of Chart Industries (GTLS), a move aimed at accelerating its transformation into an energy and industrial technology leader. The deal, approved by both companies’ boards, is expected to close by mid-2026 after regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Baker Hughes highlighted strategic and financial benefits from the acquisition, including $325 million in annualized cost synergies by the third year post-closing. Chart’s expertise in LNG, data centers, and decarbonization complements BKR’s Industrial & Energy Technology segment, expanding its reach in high-growth sectors. The transaction is projected to be immediately accretive to earnings, margins, and cash flow, with double-digit EPS growth anticipated within the first full year. The combined entity will also strengthen Baker Hughes’ aftermarket services, leveraging Chart’s installed base for recurring revenue.

Financing for the acquisition includes secured bridge debt, with Baker Hughes planning to reduce leverage to 1.0-1.5x within 24 months post-closure. The company emphasized maintaining its A credit rating and dividend growth strategy. The deal underscores a focus on long-term value creation through operational efficiencies and market expansion, aligning with broader industry trends toward decarbonization and digitalization.

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