Arch Resources (NYSE:ARCH) and Consol Energy (NYSE:CEIX), two of the largest coal miners in the United States, are entering a merger that will create a $5.2 billion coal mining company.

"This merger will join two proven leadership teams and best-in-sector operating platforms to establish a premier North American coal producer with worldwide reach and world-class mining and logistics capabilities," said Paul Lang, Arch's CEO.

The all-stock merger will create a company controlling 11 mines, including some of the largest, lowest-cost, and highest-calorie domestic assets.

Both companies have experienced a challenging year, with Consol Energy's shares dropping by 5.8% and Arch Resources' shares declining by 24%, reflecting industry struggles as coal faces increasing competition from renewable energy sources.

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Arch stockholders will receive a fixed exchange ratio of 1.326 shares of CONSOL common stock for each share of Arch common stock owned.

Upon closing of the transaction, Core Natural Resources will trade under a new ticker. Arch stockholders will own approximately 45% of Core Natural Resources, and CONSOL stockholders will own approximately 55% on a fully diluted basis.

The merger is expected to be tax-free to stockholders of both companies for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Arch Resources, based in St. Louis, Missouri, specializes in metallurgical and thermal coal, serving diverse industries, including steel production and power generation.

Consol Energy, headquartered in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, also focuses on bituminous coal, primarily through its Pennsylvania Mining Complex and its coal export terminal services.

The overlap in their business models, particularly in producing high-quality coal and their strong presence in the Appalachian region, suggests synergies through consolidation.

Operational efficiencies, cost reduction, and enhanced market reach are some measures combined entity could utilize to boost competitiveness. Management expects to generate $110 to $140 million through synergies.

Additionally, a larger company might have greater financial flexibility and be better equipped to navigate the evolving energy landscape. Both companies have conservatively managed balance sheets, a debt-to-equity ratio of around 10%, and hefty cash reserves.

Despite the industry's challenges, coal is critical in global energy production. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global coal demand is expected to remain stable this year and next.

This trend is primarily due to the continued growth in electricity demand in major economies such as China and India, where coal remains a crucial energy source.

The IEA reported that in 2023, global coal consumption reached an all-time high, driven by strong demand in these countries.

While the long-term outlook for coal remains uncertain, the potential merger of two large domestic players suggests its phase-out might take longer than anticipated.

The merger is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2025, subject to approval by both companies' stockholders, regulatory approvals, and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Price Action: ARCH shares are up 5.13% premarket to $133.24 premarket at the last check on Wednesday. CEIX stock is up 4.09% to $98.60.

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