AIG TO BUY AM GEN

American International Group Inc. came to an agreement under which it will buy American General Corporation in a estimated $24.6-billion transaction, which was approved by the boards of directors of both companies. Concurrently, American General canceled its prior merger agreement with Prudential plc, and paid Prudential the $600-million termination fee specified in that agreement. Both AIG and American General indicated that the transaction could close within the next three to four months.