A PYMNTS Company

US: Democrats want another hearing on T-Mobile-Sprint merger

By  |  January 27, 2019

In a letter sent to two top members of the US Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, five US Senate Democrats called for a hearing on the potential effects of the proposed merger between T-Mobile and Sprint, reported CNET.

    Get the Full Story

    Complete the form to unlock this article and enjoy unlimited free access to all PYMNTS content — no additional logins required.

    yesSubscribe to our daily newsletter, PYMNTS Today.

    By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and to the sharing of your information with our sponsor, if applicable, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.

    The letter brought up concerns that the merger could lead to higher prices, fewer choices, and less flexibility when you want to switch carriers. There’s also concern that the merger could impact low-income consumers since T-Mobile and Sprint are also competitors in the prepaid front.

    Opponents of the merger say the reduction in competitors would consolidate the market too much. But supporters, including the companies, say scale is needed to build new 5G infrastructure and to compete in the market.

    While the Federal Communication Commission’s review of the merger is on hold during the partial government shutdown, opposition to the deal is growing. A group called the 4Competition Coalition was formed last month to challenge the merger. Several rural carriers, including C Spire, Blue Wireless, and Pine Belt Cellular have joined the coalition. The group now has 23 members.

    Full Content: CNet

    Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.