Bouygues heats up bidding war for SFR
Top Story

Bouygues heats up bidding war for SFR

French mobile operator Bouygues has increased its bid for Vivendi’s mobile arm, SFR.

The improved bid has increased to €11.3 billion, and reduces the stake Vivendi would retain to 43%, down from 46%.

The initial offer made by the operator included €10.5 billion in cash and ownership of 46% of the new company after a planned spin-off, which values SFR at €14.5 billion before synergies.

Experts are predicting that Bouygues could face regulatory hurdles as the acquisition of SFR would create a dominant player in France.

A rival bid was also been prepared by cable operator Numericable, owned by billionaire Patrick Drahi, which values SFR at approximately €14.75 billion.

Gift this article