XM-Sirius merger could get boost - TheDeal.com

TheDeal.com reports the FCC late Wednesday said it was reexamining the 10-year-old rule that poses a big roadblock to the planned merger of Sirius Satellite Radio (SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio Holdings (XMSR). The FCC asked for comment from industry and the public on a rule it issued in 1997 in conjunction with its creation of satellite radio and the two licenses for the service now held by XM and Sirius. The rule prohibits both licenses from being controlled by the same co. But after Sirius and XM asked for federal approval to consummate a $13 bln merger in Feb. 19, the FCC has asked for comments addressing whether the prohibition should be modified or repealed. The fate of the rule is expected to be decided prior to an FCC rulin