The United States Federal Trade Commission has asked for more information from both FAG and INA in its examination of INA Holding's acquisition plan for FAG Kugelfischer.

Apparently, the FTC's only information from FAG dates back to the time it was vehemently opposing the acquisition. Last week, however, FAG senior management threw its support behind the acquisition in exchange for certain concessions from INA.

INA, anxious that the deal's momentum not be stalled by the U.S. agency, is seeking immediate talks with the FTC.

The FTC's "second request" for additional information is not unusual, especially in historically sensitive trade areas such as the bearing industry. Increased attention is usually paid to areas which potentially impact a wide swath of the U.S. manufacturing economy. In addition, the only information the FTC had on hand from FAG was in total opposition to the deal.

INA had originally planned to complete the takeover by October 29, 2001, and is hoping direct intervention with the FTC will allow it to continue on schedule.

After a short hearing last Friday, the European Union Competition Commission approved the takeover.

Regulatory observers deny rumors the FTC is stalling in retribution for E.U. regulators nixing General Electric's recent bid to acquire Honeywell.