UK CMA Indicates Vodafone and Three's £15 Billion Merger Likely Approved with £11 Billion Network Investment

Nov 5, 2024, 08:35 AM

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has indicated that the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three UK is likely to be approved, provided that the companies commit to certain remedies, including significant investment in upgrading the country's mobile network. The merger, valued at approximately £15 billion ($19 billion), would consolidate Vodafone and Hutchison's Three UK operations. The CMA's provisional ruling suggests that the benefits of investment commitments outweigh concerns over reduced competition in the telecom sector. The companies have agreed to invest £11 billion in network upgrades as part of the deal. The final decision is expected by December 7.