Clash of the Titans

Mobil tries some tough tactics in its battle to take over Marathon Oil

With stunning swiftness, the $6.5 billion battle between Mobil Corp. and U.S. Steel for control of Marathon Oil turned nasty last week. Mobil, still frustrated and angry over its defeat by Du Pont earlier this year in the struggle to take over Conoco, seemed on the brink of losing again. Then Mobil suddenly went on the offensive with a daring ploy. The oil company announced that it intended to buy up to 25% of its bidding rival, U.S. Steel. Said one...

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