Reuters announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire EcoWin, the Swedish company specializing in global macroeconomic data and analysis.

Reuters will acquire 100% of the share capital of EcoWin for $40 million in cash, plus an adjustment for cash and working capital at the date of completion. Completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and is expected to occur by end of 2005.

The acquisition of the privately held company follows Reuters recently announced growth strategy, which includes a focus on high value content to provide greater insight and supplement the news, company information, research and analysis that Reuters currently provides.

EcoWin was established in 1994 and has become a leading provider of in-depth global macroeconomic time-series data. EcoWin will be integrated with Reuters Research and Asset Management division. EcoWin products will continue to be sold and supported by Reuters and will be re-branded as Reuters EcoWin.

Julie Holland, global head of Research and Asset Management at Reuters commented, “EcoWin is an excellent fit with Reuters. Their macroeconomic data complements our company and financial content, and our Editorial capabilities. Our clients need and use macroeconomic data and all EcoWin’s clients can benefit from additional Reuters content.”

“The agreement is a key step towards our vision to become the leading supplier of comprehensive investment intelligence and is key to Reuters strategy in the research and asset management space,” she added.