Google on Monday announced the acquisition of YouTube for US$1.65 billion in stock. The company said in a press release: “Following the acquisition, YouTube will operate independently to preserve its successful brand and passionate community. YouTube will continue to be based in San Bruno, CA, and all YouTube employees will remain with the company. With Google’s technology, advertiser relationships and global reach, YouTube will continue to build on its success as one of the world’s most popular services for video entertainment. ” Google and YouTube expect the transaction, which was nothing more than a rumor last Friday, to close during the current financial quarter. YouTube on Monday signed content distribution deals with CBS, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, and Universal Music Group. Meanwhile, Google on Monday signed deals with Sony BMG and Warner Music to distribute music videos.