Essar Global Limited announced it had signed an agreement to acquire all common shares of Algoma Steel Inc. for $1.85 billion in cash, or $56 per share. This represents a 48% premium over Algoma's 20-day average stock price. Under the agreement, Algoma will undertake a court-approved plan to be acquired by an Essar subsidiary. The Chairman of Algoma's Board supported the proposal as it provided a significant premium and new ownership committed to investment. Essar's Chairman believes Algoma is an excellent addition that offers growth potential in the Canadian and North American markets.