Western Union has ended its agreement to buy International Money Express, known as Intermex, and Intermex disputes whether the deal is over. Western Union said on 10 November 2026 that it had sent Intermex a notice terminating the merger agreement, after California's regulator set final conditions it called unacceptable.

Western Union had agreed last year to buy the Latin America and Caribbean-focused money transfer firm for about $500 million in cash, aiming to expand in high-growth Latin American markets. The deal needed regulatory approval, and Western Union said it had received approval everywhere except California.

California conditions blamed for the break

According to Reuters, Western Union said the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation delivered its final conditions of approval on the evening of 10 November. Western Union said those conditions would have required material changes to its business model, its agent relationships and its long-term business strategy.

California had first granted approval on 11 February 2026 without those conditions, Western Union said. After a review with legal and financial advisers, its board decided to terminate the agreement. Under the merger terms, neither company must make a payment to the other, Western Union said.

Intermex rejects the termination

Intermex responded on 11 November by rejecting what it called Western Union's purported termination. In a statement carried by GlobeNewswire, Intermex said it had met all its obligations, remained ready to complete the transaction, and had demanded that Western Union take all actions needed to close the deal.

Intermex said it would pursue its remedies, including seeking specific performance and substantial damages. Western Union said it stands by its decision and believes it acted in accordance with the agreement. No timetable for a resolution has been given.