Posted 4:30 p.m., Thurs., Nov. 6 Despite a shaky economy, executives of Belgian brewer InBev say they remain unshaken in their belief that the acquisition of Anheuser-Busch will proceed on schedule and be completed by year-end. In a report on third-quarter earnings, InBev CEO Carlos Brito told analysts Thursday his company is "well prepared and equipped for the challenging economic environment." The shareholder vote takes place Nov. 12 for InBev's $70-a-share offer. (Photo by Tom Nagel)

Anheuser-Busch's stock has behaved erratically this month. Because the stock has occasionally reached uncomfortable levels, some analysts wonder if the sale to InBev might be delayed, restructured or even cancelled. Deteriorating economies in the U.S. and Europe plus several unwelcome events have also created uncertainty among investors. For its part, though, InBev insists the deal will close by year-end as promised -- and at the full price. 

A darkening economic climate is making the path to InBev's purchase of Anheuser-Busch a bit more interesting than the companies had hoped. Financial turmoil in the United States, a bond-rating firm's downgrade and a multibillion dollar infusion for one of InBev's lenders have tossed unwelcome headlines in the way of a deal that the companies and analysts still say will completed by year-end.

Next month, Anheuser-Busch and the Teamsters start negotiations on a new contract to replace the one that expires in Februrary. With the looming merger of InBev plus the overall weak economy, management and labor are both asking themselves: Is it in our best interest to play ball -- or to delay?

Documents filed Wednesday reveal some details of InBev's agreement to buy Anheuser-Busch. 360 key A-B employees could get retention bonuses if the company meets cost-cutting targets. Busch Stadium's name and the Clydesdales will remain. Philanthropic support will continue. Some wiggle room appeared in the promise to keep all 12 breweries open.

Is the happiness of A-B shareholders shared by its bondholders? Are the unions nervous? Is the mood festive in the board room at Molson Coors?

The board of Anheuser-Busch approved a $70-a-share offer from Belgian-based InBev. While stockholder votes and antitrust reviews remain, the deal is expected to be approved.  The new company, Anheuser-Busch  InBev, will be the world's largest brewer. InBev's CEO Carlos Brito will be its head and St. Louis will be North American head quarters .