Manic Merger Monday In Effect Yet Again (LVLT, TSTY, GLBC, BHP)

You better figure out what you're gonna wear, because it's another manic merger Monday. So far, we've seen Level 3 Communications LVLT buying Global Crossing Ltd. GLBC for a 50%+ premium, as the company looks to expand its offerings across the globe. The deal is worth $23.04 for every Global Crossing share, and values the deal around $3 billion. “This is a transformational combination that we believe will deliver significant value to investors, customers and employees,” Jim Crowe, chief executive officer of Level 3, said in a statement. Putting their own muffin merger spin on merger Monday, Tasty Baking TSTY has agreed to merge with Flowers Foods FLO in a $165 million deal. The deal is approximately a 148% premium to Friday's closing price, and will get $4.00 per share in cash. It was also reported over the weekend that BHP Billiton BHP once again would be making a run for Woodside Petroleum. This rumor has been out there for some years now, as BHP is trying to expand its presence in the oil & gas industry, and acquiring one of Australia's top exploration companies will certainly do that. The company refuted the rumor, but where is smoke, there is generally fire. Just another manic Monday on Wall Street.