Chicago-based Ventas Inc. said Monday that it will buy Nationwide Health Properties Inc. in a $5.8 billion stock deal, creating the nation’s largest health care real-estate investment trust.

The Nationwide purchase solidifies Ventas’ position as an owner of senior housing communities. The combined company will have more than 1,300 assets in 47 states, the District of Columbia, and two Canadian provinces. Ventas also owns hospitals and medical office buildings. Get the full story »