Originally Posted by
rononymous
I agree that it feels unlikely but we’re all smart enough to know that timing, narrative, money and political influence all play a role in any M&A. If we actually start down that path with one of the large carriers I think the likelihood of it being approved is high. It’s become apparent we’re at the stage where there’s a lot of homework being done on what it would take to overcome regulatory hurdles. Whether this exploration results in actually going down that path is TBD and is the bigger question.
If for some reason this doesn’t work then I can see trying to tie up with a smaller carrier as an option but that’s only if we can’t dance with one of the big boys. This is of course my opinion only based on nothing but my own observations and experience. YMMV.
I honestly don’t know how all of this will turn out, all that I am certain of is that those who are making those calls don’t come here for advice. I still think that the big 4 would rather wait it out and pay top dollar for the prime pieces in a bidding war than to take on the time and expense of a merger and end up with a bunch of unwanted debt, expenses, equipment, and employees just to acquire the few parts that they do want.