Disney ATT and Microsoft

[nolongercastmember]

Prediction time. In a deal somewhat structured like a multi team deal in sports, here is what could be happening with the three Companies mentioned in the subject line of this post. Microsoft, which currently owns a small percentage of ATT, in conjunction with Disney and another player or two (Comcast comes to mind) may participate in buying the cable division of ATT. I think that this scenario may take place. Microsoft sells out its stake in CNBC. Disney becomes the main buyer for ATT and Microsft ends up with a chunk of Disney as part of the deal. The third or fourth player ends up with a good chunk of the purchase say 5 to 10 percent. The whole deal probably would run into the 60 to 65 billion range. Disney couldn't foot the bill itself but with some major help it could pull it off.

 

[Captain Crook]

I have thought this very scenerio type out a lot and while I do agree that it certainly may be doable, I have to wonder about the "chunk" of Disney that would be given up. I say that primarily because we know Eisner doesn't want to jeopardize Disney's independnce, particularily in his time. But could this be just another dillusion for the sake of apparant independence, I don't know. The corporate waters are looking mighty muddy, aren't they?

I too predict that Disney will be doing "something" and while I tend to think Eisner's independent thought process will win out, I do believe AT&T to be a part of the current scheming. I can't help but think that Disney has somthing (big) up their sleeve...

 

[AKemel]

Microsoft needs broadband access and content, but does not really want to run cable service. Disney needs TV/broadband access and web hosting but does not really want to run cable service. Comcast needs money, and willing to give away channels and set top box contracts, while want to run cable service. All of them want to rein it AOL/TW. It may happen.

 

[YoHo]

As I keep saying, no matter what the scheme's and plans, it has not shown itself to be profitable. That's why its on the block and that's why @home is tanking. Disney should stay away. For God's sake stay away!