Thales, a French multinational company that designs and builds electrical systems and provides services for the aerospace, defence, transportation, and security, completed its previously announced €4.8bn ($5.4bn) takeover of Gemalto, an international digital security company providing software applications, secure personal devices such as smart cards and tokens, and managed services, boosting Thales’ presence in the booming security services market. Thales had to clear various regulatory obstacles before finally completing the deal. Thales acquired nearly 86% of shares which represented the value of €4.1bn ($4.6bn). The shareholders who have not tendered their shares during the acceptance period will have the opportunity to tender their shares under the same terms in a post-closing acceptance period which will end 15 April 2019. “Together, we are creating a giant in digital identity and security with the capabilities to compete in the big leagues worldwide,” said Thales Chairman and Chief Executive Patrice Caine.