Sprint is in the early stages of deciding whether or not to purchase smaller rival T-Mobile, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Citing sources familiar with Sprint’s plans, the Journal says Sprint is examining the possible regulatory roadblocks it might encounter were it to make such a bid. The idea is being pushed forward by Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank, which owns more than 80% of Sprint. SoftBank’s Son has been vocal about expanding in the U.S. market. A combined Sprint/T-Mobile entity would still have fewer subscribers than larger rivals AT&T and Verizon Wireless, and it would further consolidate the industry.
Federal regulators shot down AT&T’s attempt to purchase T-Mobile two years ago. T-Mobile has since purchased MetroPCS.
The Journal notes that T-Mobile doesn’t want to waste any time treading water waiting for another deal to pass government muster. The government may not want just three large companies serving the country.
Sprint’s plans are not final and may be scrapped
