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China: Priceline thwarts major travel booking merger plans

By  |  August 13, 2014

Two of China’s largest online travel booking sites are in discussions to merge, but the plans have been derailed thanks to US-based Priceline’s entrance into the picture.

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    Ctrip and rival Qunar have been in merger discussion for two years. But their market share is small compared to Priceline, which is worth more than $60 billion.

    Priceline has reportedly announced a $500 million acquisition of Ctrip, a move that could entirely destroy Ctrip’s plans with Qunar. According to some experts, Ctrip will likely decide that partnering with a global leader in its industry is better than merging with a small peer.

    According to reports, Priceline’s investment will result in no more than 10 percent of Ctrip stake. The deal is subject to regulator approval./p>

    Full content: Want China Times

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