US satellite TV provider DirecTV is merging with Liberty Entertainment in a bid to simplify its ownership structure and make it more appealing to potential partners and buyers.
The tax-free deal will see Liberty Entertainment’s 54% stake in DirecTV bundled into the satellite provider along with a handful of Liberty Entertainment holdings. John Malone, who owns Liberty Entertainment, will see his voting rights reduced from 48% to 24%.
The move is designed to increase the chances of a broader partnership between DirecTV and its partners AT&T and Verizon, or an outright sale to one of the mobile operators.
StrategyEye's related categories: Mobile Operators - General, Broadcasters - Satellite TV
StrategyEye's related companies: Media Corporation, DirecTV, Liberty Media
