Shurgard Storage Centers Inc. and Public Storage Inc.

In March 2006, Public Storage agreed to buy Shurgard Storage for about $5 billion. Shareholders filed a putative class action lawsuit against the two storage companies aimed at stopping the planned merger. The case was filed in Washington State Superior Court on behalf of public shareholders and claimed Shurgard Storage Centers' directors did not properly value the company. Shurgard Storage and Public Storage have reached a memorandum of understanding to settle the class action and have agreed to disclose additional information about the merger. On August 22, 2006 Shareholders from the two companies will vote on the merger at separate meetings. (Aug-09-06) [EASY BOURSE]