HP Trading Symbol to Change With Merger

Hewlett-Packard Co. will change its ticker symbol Monday to HPQ from HWP to reflect the $18.2-billion purchase of Compaq Computer Corp. Trading of Compaq common stock will be suspended before the market opens Monday.

HP said a final, certified vote count showed it won shareholder approval to buy Compaq, clearing the last hurdle to completing the deal. Palo Alto-based HP expects to close the purchase today and start combined operations Tuesday after six months of fighting dissident former director Walter Hewlett.

Also, Moody’s Investors Service said it was reviewing for potential downgrade its ratings on $6.4 billion in HP debt, citing the risk of the firm’s purchase of Compaq. Moody’s is reviewing bonds, short-term debt and preferred stock.