Nasdaq Could Sell AMEX To Assuage Reulatory Concerns In NYSE Bid

Nasdaq OMX Group NDAQ said it could sell NYSE Euronext's American Stock Exchange and consider a breakup fee to appease regulators that have antitrust concerns, Reuters reported, citing a source with knowledge of the matter. Nasdaq and IntercontinentalExchange ICE have offered $11.3 billion for NYSE Euronext, but the operator of the New York Stock Exchange has agreed to a $10.2 billion buyout offer from Germany's Deutsche Boerse. Although both deals face considerable antitrust hurdles, some investors have said Nasdaq CEO Robert Greifeld needs to make a strong case he can overcome a regulatory review, according to Reuters. NYSE Euronext acquired AMEX in January 2008 for $260 million in stock. AMEX was once a leading exchange for ETFs and options, but the exchange eventually lost market share to rivals on those fronts. AMEX, still an active options exchange and home to many small-cap stocks, is not a separate listing venue from NYSE.