IFM Global Infrastructure Fund, an investment fund run by Australian pension funds, on Friday requested authorisation from Spain's market regulator for its 5.06 billion euro ($6.07 billion) offer for a 22.7% stake in Naturgy.
IFM announced the cash offer of 23 euros per share on Jan. 26, sending Naturgy shares soaring 16%.
Under legislation to protect firms considered strategic by Madrid, the deal will also require a green light from the Spanish government.
It will also need a sign off from regulators in Luxembourg and Australia.
($1 = 0.8342 euros)
(Reporting by Nathan Allen, Eidting by Inti Landauro)
