WSJ:FCA and PSA discuss countersuing GM , creating a "discussion with GM"

[AlexB]

The merger partners have discussed the lawsuit, but it is unlikely to throw the deal off track, according to people on both sides of the talks. PSA agrees with Fiat Chrysler’s position that the claim is meritless, some of these people said, adding that lawyers and other specialists had examined GM’s claim for the French side. PSA would likely be supportive of any countermove, such as a countersuit, that Fiat Chrysler could choose to make against GM, these people said

If the contention drags on past the closing of the deal, PSA Chief Executive Carlos Tavares would be well qualified to deal with it, these people said. A countersuit from Fiat Chrysler would likely lead to a discussion between the two car makers, and Mr. Tavares developed a good working relationship with GM Chief Executive Mary Barra when buying the U.S. company’s European business in 2017.
The accusations surprised both car makers, and people close to them have suggested that the lawsuit is an aggressive attempt by GM to gain leverage over Fiat Chrysler, either through financial damages or by making the merger harder to achieve. .

Fiat Chrysler and PSA Forge Ahead With Merger Plan Despite GM Lawsuit

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot maker PSA Group of France are moving ahead with a memo of understanding for their planned $50 billion merger, despite the recent legal challenge from General Motors.

www.wsj.com