Global Payments, a leading worldwide provider of payment technology services, acquired Heartland Payment Systems, one of the nation's largest payment companies, for $4.3bn. "This partnership with Heartland marks a major milestone for our company, significantly enhancing our direct presence in our largest market and transforming Global Payments into the leading provider of integrated payments technology solutions in the world," said Jeffrey S. Sloan, Chief Executive Officer of Global Payments. "The combination of strong businesses and cultures in high growth markets will generate exceptional opportunities for our employees, customers, partners and shareholders worldwide."