UK: ORANGE BIDDERS WILL INCLUDE TELEFONICA

Article Abstract:

Among the bidders for UK's third largest mobile phone operator Orange is Telefonica of Spain, which has begun to approach investment banks with a view to securing debt funding of around GB[pound] 30bn. Other interested parties are thought to include France Telecom, KPN of the Netherlands, NTT DoCoMo of Japan, Sonera of Finland, and MCI WorldCom of the US. France Telecom, a 30% shareholder in NTL, has confirmed that it intends to continue expanding in the UK, and that it will bid for Orange even if the UK company is successful in its bid for a third generation mobile phone licence. Interest in Orange has been building since the takeover of Mannesmann by Vodafone. Orange will be spun off later in 2000.

France Telecom S.A., FTE

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BT's Italian job turns investors Blu

Article Abstract:

The eight shareholders in Italian mobile phone operator Blu are seeking a purchaser before a meeting due to take place on Dec 28, 2001. Potential purchasers include Telefonica of Spain and Hutchison3G. There has been tension between the shareholders, with BT refusing to bow to pressure to increase its 20% stake in order to fund a larger share of the cost of buying a third generation licence.

Italy, Telecommunications, Telephone Communication, Spain, Management, Brief Article, TEF, Blu S.p.A., Hutchison 3G Europe

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Mannesmann moves on Orange in bid to forge European network

Article Abstract:

German firm Mannesmann is holding talks with a view to an 18 billion pounds sterling takeover bid for UK mobile telecommunications concern Orange. This announcement has led to a strong interest in UK telecommunications stocks, with Orange stock rising 34p to 1,373p on the basis of reports that Mannesmann would offer 14 pounds sterling per share. Orange holds 18% of the UK mobile telecommunications market, and only became profitable recently.

Germany, Primary Iron & Steel, Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing, Planning, Mannesmann AG, Steel industry, Orange PLC

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