US pharmacy chain CVS announces $69 billion purchase of insurer Aetna

The CVS logo is seen infront of one of its stores in Washington, DC on December 3, 2017.
US pharmacy chain CVS has agreed to buy medical insurer Aetna for around $69 billion, according to reports. / AFP PHOTO 

SAN FRANCISCO, United States (AFP) — US drugstore chain CVS Health announced Sunday it would buy medical insurer Aetna for about $69 billion in a move that would create a new giant in the healthcare sector.

“The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2018,” CVS said in a statement, adding: “It is subject to approval by CVS Health and Aetna shareholders, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.”

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