Benzinga's Weekend M&A Chatter

The following are the M&A deals, rumors and chatter circulating on Wall Street for Friday December 26 through Sunday December 28, 2014 New York Stock Exchange May be Put Up for Sale The Rumor:
The New York Stock Exchange may be put up for sale as early as next year, by its owner, Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. ICE, according to the New York Post. Sources say ICE will with sell or spinoff the "Big Board" within a year. Attempts to make the NYSE more profitable, with updated technology are a prelude to a sale, according to the sources. A spokesperson for Intercontinental Exchange was not immediately available for comment. Intercontinental Exchange closed Friday at $221.88, up $0.15. Egypt's Financial Regulator Extends Bidding Period for Bisco Misr Until January 11, 2015 The Bidding War:
Egypt's financial regulator has extended the bidding deadline for Egypt snack manufacturer, Bisco Misr, until January 11, 2015, reports Reuters. Kellogg Company K, has been engaged in a takeover battle for Bisco Misr with UAE-based PE firm Abraaj Asset Management. Kellogg is currently the high bidder, having offered 89.86 Egyptian pounds per share. Kellogg shares closed Friday at $67.01, down a penny. Lion Capital Urges American Capital to Consider Sale, Other Options The Hedge Fund Letter:
Hedge fund Lion Capital has reportedly sent a letter to American Apparel, Inc.'s APP Board of Directors on Sunday, requesting the retailer consider strategic options, according to the Wall Street Journal. Sources say options include a potential sale. Lion Capital's request comes on the heels of Irving Place Capital's $1.40 per share bid, which American Apparel's Board indicated was too low, according to sources. American Apparel shares closed flat Friday at $1.06.