Andersen May Be Acquired

Sources close to the deal have stated that it may come off as early as this week. Almost certainly the Andersen name would go.

Andersen has been in turmoil since the revelations about its behaviour in what has become the 'enron affair' and the firm may face criminal charges after employees appear to have attempted to obstruct justice by shreding important documents sought by federal investigators.

The New York Times revealed that talks between Joseph Beradino, the Andersen chief, and James Copeland, the boss at Deloitte, got underway last week. The main stumbling block appears to be how Deliotte can acquire the business without taking on the potentially huge damage claims Andersen may face for its involvement with Enron.

It would also be foolish to rule out a bid from Ernst & Young. The firm is believed to be considering it's position.