WorldCom, Sprint to plead case to U.S.; facing threat, partners plan visit to antitrust chief; is telecom cooling off?

Article Abstract:

The proposed merger between the second- and third-largest long distance telephone companies - WorldCom Inc. and Sprint Corp. - has raised concerns of federal regulators. European telecom regulators have also expressed doubts as to the merger, fearing that the new company would hold a dominant position in providing transport to Internet backbone traffic. Both companies will be meeting with Justice Dept. officials in the hope of convincing them to reject a federal advisor's recommendation against the merger and allow the $115 billion link-up to proceed.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

U.S. to decide if it will halt WorldCom-Sprint merger

Article Abstract:

A decision from the Justice Department on whether to block the planned merger of Sprint Corp. and WorldCom Inc. is expected in the next few days. The companies face a challenge in trying to persuade the government that the merger won't hurt competition in long-distance phone service.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code:

MCI, Sprint could pass antitrust test

Article Abstract:

MCI WorldCom Inc.'s proposed buyout of Sprint Corp. could win regulatory approval if the companies agree to sell certain assets. The nation's second- and third-biggest long-distance phone companies have been holding merger talks but still face some hurdles. The deal would provide MCI WorldCom with Sprint's valuable wireless and fiber networks and its strong consumer brand. The Federal Communications Commission and Justice Department would have to take into account the number of new entrants in the telecommunications market, despite the fact the numbers may suggest that this combination would make the market too concentrated. But MCI WorldCom might not gain Sprint's Internet-services network, another key asset. The Justice Department already forced the company to sell MCI's Internet-services business to quell antitrust concerns when it approved WorldCom's acquisition of MCI in July 1998.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

Comment:  (50-4000 characters)

Name:

E-mail:

Security Code: