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France: Numericable, SFR brings major competition concerns

By  |  July 31, 2014

Competition authorities in France are reportedly planning an investigation into the proposed acquisition of telco SFR by cable operator Numericable.

Numericable won out in a bidding war to acquire SFR from current owner Vivendi. Vivendi reportedly chose Numericable to buy the assets over Bouygues Telecom, citing competition concerns that both SFR and Bouygues Telecom operate in the same industry.

But despite the different markets, Numericable and SFR will earn competition scrutiny. Reports say the competition authority will consult with telecom watchdog ARCEP and media regulator CSA over the next several weeks to discuss whether the deal harms competition.

Reports say the investigation was to be expected and would likely lead to concessions.

Full content: Digital TV Europe

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