CDP is a subsidiary of Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec, an indirect subsidiary of CDP Capital-Financing. The firm was advised by CWCapital Investments. For previous coverage, click here.

The locally based REIT was expected to close its common stock transfer books as of the close of business yesterday. The New York Stock Exchange intends to suspend trading of Criimi Mae common shares as of the opening of trading on January 19. With this transaction, CWCapital will increase its assets under management to more than $5 billion.

"This is part of a process that began in early 2005 when the board decided to evaluate various strategic alternatives, including a possible sale of the company, to maximize shareholder value," said Robert E. Woods, chairman of Criimi Mae's Special Committee, when the merger was first announced.