REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/IllustrationMay 15 (Reuters) - Australian gold miner Newcrest Mining Ltd said on Monday it would back Newmont Corp's (NEM.N) A$26.2 billion ($17.8 billion) takeover offer in one of the world's largest buyouts so far this year. If the deal gets Newcrest shareholders' approval and other regulatory approvals, it would lift Newmont's gold output to nearly double its nearest rival, Barrick Gold Corp (ABX.TO), further solidifying Newmont's position as the world's biggest gold producer. Newcrest shareholders will be able to choose to receive New York Stock Exchange-listed Newmont shares or Australian listed CHESS Depository Instruments (CDIs) as payment. Newcrest said it recommended its shareholders vote in favour of the deal at a meeting expected to be held in September or October. The deal requires Australia's Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) sign off as well as Newcrest and Newmont shareholders to vote in support the transaction among other regulatory approvals.

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