AT&T, Time Warner Face Capitol Hill Merger Review

The transcript discusses the AT&T and Time Warner merger, comparing it to past deals like Comcast's acquisition of NBC Universal. It highlights the regulatory expectations, focusing on the Department of Justice's role and the importance of maintaining open access for new content providers. The potential political influence of the Trump administration is also considered, with an expectation of a deregulatory approach. Overall, the deal is anticipated to be approved, continuing the trend of media and telecom consolidation.

What is the main difference between the AT&T and Time Warner merger and the blocked Comcast and Time Warner Cable deal?

• The AT&T and Time Warner merger is a vertical integration.

• The Comcast and Time Warner Cable deal was a vertical integration.

• Both deals were horizontal integrations.

• The AT&T and Time Warner merger is a horizontal integration.

Which organization is primarily responsible for reviewing the AT&T and Time Warner merger?

• Department of Justice (DOJ)

• Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

What is a key concern for regulators regarding the AT&T and Time Warner merger?

• Reducing the number of telecom companies

• Maintaining open access for new content providers

• Ensuring AT&T becomes a monopoly

• Increasing prices for consumers

How did President-elect Donald Trump initially react to the AT&T and Time Warner merger?

• He had no opinion on the merger.

• He encouraged more mergers like it.

• He promised to block the merger.

• He fully supported the merger.

What is the expected approach of the Trump administration towards mergers like AT&T and Time Warner?

• Deregulatory

• Highly regulatory

• Neutral

• Oppositional