Nippon Steel Corporation has received the green light for its $15 billion acquisition of United States Steel Corporation after a notable endorsement from former President Donald Trump. This development signals a shift from Trump's previous stance against foreign acquisitions in the American steel industry during his 2024 campaign. Reuters reported that the political landscape has evolved through discussions involving key leaders, facilitating this favorable outcome for the partnership.
The acquisition, projected to boost the U.S. economy by $14 billion within 14 months, is expected to create at least 70,000 new jobs, primarily benefiting Pennsylvania. Nippon Steel's increased investment commitment of $10.8 billion was pivotal in garnering political and union support despite ongoing concerns from the United Steelworkers union about the implications for domestic production and union jobs.
Initially, the deal faced resistance from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris due to national security concerns. However, after negotiations involving former President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, the acquisition proceeded. Following the announcement, U.S. Steel's shares surged by 21%, marking their highest point since 2011, highlighting market optimism about the new partnership.