AT&T Preparing A Settlement Proposal In Order To Save T-Mobile Merger?
Now that the Department of Justice has filed an antitrust lawsuit to block AT&T from merging with T-Mobile, AT&T is undoubtedly preparing for a hefty legal battle. According to a recent report released by Reuters, AT&T is also preparing a settlement offer as part of their plan to save the merger. With so much on the line, the carrier is sure to put in all its efforts to bypass the courtroom altogether.
Sources close to the situation claim AT&T will present a proposal to the Department of Justice in hopes to reach an early agreement. While details of the possible proposal remain unknown, experts speculate it will be two tiered. First, AT&T will promise to maintain T-Mobile’s low priced data and calling plans in an attempt to maintain fair competition in the wireless market. Additionally, AT&T will have to sell off a percentage of T-Mobile’s assets to appease the antitrust regulators. Experts estimate AT&T will need to sell close to 25% of T-Mobile’s business to calm the regulators’ concerns.
AT&T has yet to comment on the expected settlement proposal, but remains confident that they will prevail as their counsel works “vigorously” on the case.
