Pan-European stock market operator Euronext today raised its bid offer for Oslo Bors, intensifying a battle with Nasdaq for the Norwegian stock market operator.
Nasdaq has put an offer of 152 crowns per share for the deal.
Euronext's latest offer values Oslo Bors at around 6.79 billion Norwegian crowns ($785.7m).
"We strongly believe that a combination with Euronext provides Oslo Bors VPS with clear and superior benefits compared to any other offer.
"Oslo Bors will maintain its identity and integrity within Euronext's decentralised model with a strong impact on the future strategy of the enlarged group," Euronext's chief executive Stéphane Boujnah said in a statement.
"Oslo's role as a key financial centre will be reinforced. Oslo Bors employees will be empowered to develop the satisfaction of their clients, with the ability to shape the future for Euronext and for the Norwegian economy," added Boujnah.
Euronext, which runs exchanges in Dublin, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Lisbon, is looking to expand its portfolio but remaining opportunities are scarce as market operators either already belong to large groups or because their shareholders want to remain independent.