FREEPORT-MCMORAN COPPER & GOLD INC. acquisition of PLAINS EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION CO. and MCMORAN EXPLORATION

Description: Freeport-McMoran Copper & Gold Inc. of Phoenix agreed to acquire Plains Exploration & Production Co. of Houston and McMoRan Exploration Co. of New Orleans for about $9 billion in cash and stock, and also assume $11 billion in debt in connection with the deals. Pending.