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Asia: Review hurdles delay Microsoft, Nokia merger

By  |  March 24, 2014

Microsoft had reportedly planned to finalize its acquisition of Nokia handset operations by the end of the month, but according to the companies, the deal is now delayed until April.

Microsoft and Nokia released separate statements Monday announcing the $7.5 billion transaction is still awaiting regulatory clearance from some jurisdictions. Nokia confirmed that authorities in Asia have yet to approve of the deal, which was supposed to close March 31.

According to reports, the delay could signal that more concessions are on the way regarding patents; Microsoft’s acquisition includes a significant patent portfolio to be bought from Nokia, and rivals have expressed concern that the merger will lead to higher licensing fees.

Google and Samsung are among the notable rivals that have raised concern over the acquisition.

Finland-based Nokia said it remains committed to the deal.

Full Content: Reuters

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