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EU: Regs need more time in Telefonica, KPN merger review

By  |  April 2, 2014

The European Commission has reportedly extended its deadline to rule on the proposed acquisition of KPN’s E-Plus operations in Germany by Telefonica, say reports, pushing the timeline back to May 28.

The extension follows recent calls by German watchdogs for Telefonica to divest assets. German telco regulators had requested jurisdiction over the merger review, which was denied by the Commission.

According to reports, the deadline pushback will allow Telefonica more time to propose concessions to assure clearance of the deal. The merger would reduce the number of wireless operators in Germany from four to three, sparking concern among industry insiders, consumers and regulators.

Telefonica had originally planned to offer concessions this week.

Full Content: Reuters

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