Nov 19 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories in

the Wall Street Journal. Reuters has not verified these stories

and does not vouch for their accuracy.

- Australia's Sayona Mining ( SYAXF ) agreed to buy North

Carolina-based Piedmont Lithium ( PLL ) to create a top North

American lithium producer that can better withstand swings in

the fast-growing lithium market.

- Buyout firm Blackstone is nearing a deal for Jersey

Mike's Subs that would value the U.S. sandwich chain at around

$8 billion, including debt.

- AI server maker Super Micro Computer ( SMCI ) named BDO

USA as its auditor and said it has submitted a plan to the

Nasdaq seeking additional time to regain compliance with the

listing rules.

- Spirit Airlines ( SAVE ) has filed for bankruptcy

protection, after struggling with years of losses, failed merger

attempts and heavy debt levels.

- BIT Mining will pay a $10 million penalty to

the U.S. Justice Department connected to allegations the

cryptocurrency-mining company engaged in a widespread bribery

scheme.

(Compiled by Bengaluru newsroom)