<p>First Data completed the distribution of a tax-free special dividend to its shareholders consisting of approximately 765 million shares of common stock of Western Union. <br /><br />As a result of the distribution, First Data will no longer own shares of Western Union, which will instead be an independent company with its stock to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. <br /><br />Not only have we reached the goal set in January to separate the consumer-focused Western Union business into an independent company, but we have also successfully realigned First Data's core businesses to ensure an intense focus on the needs of our financial institution and merchant clients around the world, said Ric Duques, chairman and CEO of First Data.</p>
