France Telecom buying big stake in German rate-cutter; a $3.6 billion deal breaks a series of acquisition setbacks

Article Abstract:

France Telecom has reached a $3.6 billion deal to take a 28.5% stake in German low-cost phone service provider MobilCom AG. This represents a large expansion into the European telecommunications market for France Telecom, which has weathered several acquisition setbacks in the past. The acquisition will also give France Telecom access to MobilCom's Internet portal Freenet, which has one million customers.

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For Vodafone, saving grace from French; imminent cellular sale to satisfy regulators

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France Telecom has agreed to pay Vodafone AirTouch $37 billion for Orange PLC. Orange is a U.K. cellular telephone operator with about 6 mil customers and licensing arrangements across Europe. European regulators required Vodafone to sell Orange, as part of approving Vodafone's acquisition of Mannesmann A.G. Orange also has a 'third generation' wireless license. France Telecom plans to merge its cellular business and Orange, for a spin off later this year.

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Global Crossing and Equant said to be discussing deal; separate France Telecom talks continue

Article Abstract:

Global Crossing Ltd. and Equant NV have begun preliminary discussions of a merger. At the same time, Equant is in merger negotiations with France Telecom; the exclusivity clause in those discussions has expired. Equant was formed in 1949 by a consortium of airlines as a global communications and data network. Equant had a market capitalization yesterday of $9.9 bil. Both Global Crossing and France Telecom seek to build up their global presence. Global Crossings is seen as the more nimble suitor.

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