JD.com (<a>NASDAQ:JD</a>) is deep <a>in talks</a> to acquire German electronics chain Ceconomy AG (<a>MTAGF</a>) in a potential 2.2 billion ($2.6 billion) dealsignaling a calculated push beyond China's borders. The proposed offer stands at 4.60 per share in cash, a 23% premium to Ceconomy's last closing price of 3.75. While the offer isn't binding yet, it marks a renewed attempt by JD.com to build a stronger presence in Europe, after walking away from a bid for UK retailer Currys last year. Shares of Ceconomy surged as much as 15.5% on the news.\n\nThe road ahead, though, isn't guaranteed. JD.com has been sounding out Ceconomy's biggest shareholdersincluding legacy families like the Kellerhals and Haniel groupsbut some have shown reluctance to lock in firm commitments. Without their support, a formal bid could still stall. The revival of talks, first reported back in February, shows JD's sustained interest in the Frankfurt-listed company, particularly as it looks to counter slowing growth at home through international retail assets with operating scale.\n\nCeconomy runs over 1,000 stores across Europe under the MediaMarkt and Saturn brandsgiving JD.com a ready-made retail footprint if the deal closes. Analysts note the tie-up could unlock synergy between JD's logistics infrastructure and Ceconomy's physical presence on the ground. That combination may offer strategic value, especially in last-mile delivery and customer engagement. For now, investors will be watching whether JD.com can secure the shareholder backing it needs to take the next step.\n\nThis article first appeared on <a>GuruFocus</a>.

JD.com Targets $2.6 Billion German Takeover--And Investors Are Paying Attention

JD.com is in talks to acquire German electronics chain Ceconomy AG in a potential $2.6 billion deal, offering 4.60 per share in cash—a 23% premium to Ceconomy's last closing price. The move aims to expand JD.com's European presence, following a prior withdrawal from a UK retail bid. Ceconomy's 1,000+ European stores under MediaMarkt and Saturn brands could provide JD.com with retail scale and logistics synergies.