Since AT&T video service is about 1/4 the size of DIRECTV not a lot of competition will be eliminated.
AT&T To Buy DIRECTV for $67 Billion
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This will eventually go thru, but it will be about a year before it's all settled, unfortunately.
Sounds to me that, that ids why they brought in that guy to build it into a favorable video service.
I believe this is the plan. Mike White and the other higher ups will remain and run Directv as is.
This was sent to dealers
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[TD="width: 600, align: left"]This message is from Mike Wittrock, Senior Vice President of Sales & Distribution.
Dealer Partners,
By now, you have heard the great news regarding AT&T’s purchase of DIRECTV. I’d like to share my feelings on how it opens up a world of opportunity for the company and especially for your business.
In contrast to the merger between Time Warner and Comcast, which is between two cable companies, the DIRECTV/AT&T union truly combines unique assets - the world’s best video provider, a best-in-class nationwide mobile network and high-speed broadband in what will be 70 million homes. This powerful combination will provide even more ways for your business to branch out into additional revenue streams.
In addition and as part of this merger, AT&T has committed to providing fixed wireless local loop technology to an additional 15 million homes in mostly rural areas. I don’t need to tell you the kind of opportunity this will create for our local dealers’ businesses.
The transaction between the two companies is expected to close within approximately 12 months.
Until that time, nothing changes for your business and we remain separate companies. I want you to keep doing everything that has made you successful and in turn, we will likewise remain committed to being a great business partner. Delivering our best over the next year will ensure that we’re in a strong position as we evolve into the combined company.
You have my word that we will do our best to remain transparent and keep you informed. To that end, we have already received a number of questions and comments about what effect this merger will have on the dealer channels. To help you better understand, a PDF is attached with FAQs that answer the most frequent questions from all of you. We know there will be more questions along the way, so if you have additional questions about the merger, please reach out to your Dealer Council, ASM or Distributor Partner.
Rest assured, everyone at DIRECTV understands times like this can lead to feelings of uncertainty about the future. Please know that as far as your business is concerned, this is a win-win. One of the most important things to understand is that AT&T has made this strategic decision because they recognize that we are thepremier video provider with the best customer experience and a world-class team, which includes our Dealer Partners in every channel. As I’ve said on many occasions in writing and in person, the success of DIRECTV would not be possible without your dedication and expertise. AT&T knows this.
The future holds much promise. For now, let’s remain focused on what we do best…delivering the best customer experience and entertainment value in the industry.
As always, I am grateful for everything you do to make our collective business the best in the industry.
Sincerely,
Mike Wittrock
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this communication, including financial estimates and statements as to the expected timing, completion and effects of the proposed merger between DIRECTV and AT&T, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These estimates and statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. Such estimates and statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the merger, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the management of DIRECTV and AT&T and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties outside of our control.
Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements are the following: (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, (2) the risk that DIRECTV stockholders may not adopt the merger agreement, (3) the risk that the necessary regulatory approvals may not be obtained or may be obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated, (4) risks that any of the closing conditions to the proposed merger may not be satisfied in a timely manner, (5) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed merger, (6) failure to realize the benefits expected from the proposed merger and (7) the effect of the announcement of the proposed merger on the ability of DIRECTV and AT&T to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers, and on their operating results and businesses generally. Discussions of additional risks and uncertainties are contained in DIRECTV’s and AT&T’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Neither DIRECTV nor AT&T is under any obligation, and each expressly disclaim any obligation, to update, alter, or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Persons reading this announcement are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof.
Additional Information and Where to Find It
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger between DIRECTV and AT&T. In connection with the proposed merger, AT&T intends to file a registration statement on Form S-4, containing a proxy statement/prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). STOCKHOLDERS OF DIRECTV ARE URGED TO READ ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, INCLUDING THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus as well as other filings containing information about DIRECTV and AT&T, without charge, at the SEC’s website, http://www.sec.gov. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by DIRECTV will be made available free of charge on DIRECTV’s website at http://www.directv.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by AT&T will be made available free of charge on AT&T’s website at http://www.att.com.
Participants in Solicitation
DIRECTV and its directors and executive officers, and AT&T and its directors and executive officers, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the holders of DIRECTV common stock in respect of the proposed merger. Information about the directors and executive officers of DIRECTV is set forth in the proxy statement for DIRECTV’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 20, 2014. Information about the directors and executive officers of AT&T is set forth in the proxy statement for AT&T’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 11, 2014. Investors may obtain additional information regarding the interest of such participants by reading the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed merger when it becomes available.[/TD]
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The high lighted bold text seems interesting. Wonder what they have in mind.
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[TD="width: 600, align: left"]This message is from Mike Wittrock, Senior Vice President of Sales & Distribution.
By now, you have heard the great news regarding AT&T’s purchase of DIRECTV. I’d like to share my feelings on how it opens up a world of opportunity for the company and especially for your business.
In contrast to the merger between Time Warner and Comcast, which is between two cable companies, the DIRECTV/AT&T union truly combines unique assets - the world’s best video provider, a best-in-class nationwide mobile network and high-speed broadband in what will be 70 million homes. This powerful combination will provide even more ways for your business to branch out into additional revenue streams.
In addition and as part of this merger, AT&T has committed to providing fixed wireless local loop technology to an additional 15 million homes in mostly rural areas. I don’t need to tell you the kind of opportunity this will create for our local dealers’ businesses.
The transaction between the two companies is expected to close within approximately 12 months.
Until that time, nothing changes for your business and we remain separate companies. I want you to keep doing everything that has made you successful and in turn, we will likewise remain committed to being a great business partner. Delivering our best over the next year will ensure that we’re in a strong position as we evolve into the combined company.
You have my word that we will do our best to remain transparent and keep you informed. To that end, we have already received a number of questions and comments about what effect this merger will have on the dealer channels. To help you better understand, a PDF is attached with FAQs that answer the most frequent questions from all of you. We know there will be more questions along the way, so if you have additional questions about the merger, please reach out to your Dealer Council, ASM or Distributor Partner.
Rest assured, everyone at DIRECTV understands times like this can lead to feelings of uncertainty about the future. Please know that as far as your business is concerned, this is a win-win. One of the most important things to understand is that AT&T has made this strategic decision because they recognize that we are thepremier video provider with the best customer experience and a world-class team, which includes our Dealer Partners in every channel. As I’ve said on many occasions in writing and in person, the success of DIRECTV would not be possible without your dedication and expertise. AT&T knows this.
The future holds much promise. For now, let’s remain focused on what we do best…delivering the best customer experience and entertainment value in the industry.
As always, I am grateful for everything you do to make our collective business the best in the industry.
Sincerely,
Mike Wittrock
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this communication, including financial estimates and statements as to the expected timing, completion and effects of the proposed merger between DIRECTV and AT&T, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These estimates and statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. Such estimates and statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the merger, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the management of DIRECTV and AT&T and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties outside of our control.
Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements are the following: (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, (2) the risk that DIRECTV stockholders may not adopt the merger agreement, (3) the risk that the necessary regulatory approvals may not be obtained or may be obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated, (4) risks that any of the closing conditions to the proposed merger may not be satisfied in a timely manner, (5) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed merger, (6) failure to realize the benefits expected from the proposed merger and (7) the effect of the announcement of the proposed merger on the ability of DIRECTV and AT&T to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers, and on their operating results and businesses generally. Discussions of additional risks and uncertainties are contained in DIRECTV’s and AT&T’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Neither DIRECTV nor AT&T is under any obligation, and each expressly disclaim any obligation, to update, alter, or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Persons reading this announcement are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof.
Additional Information and Where to Find It
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger between DIRECTV and AT&T. In connection with the proposed merger, AT&T intends to file a registration statement on Form S-4, containing a proxy statement/prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). STOCKHOLDERS OF DIRECTV ARE URGED TO READ ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, INCLUDING THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED MERGER. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus as well as other filings containing information about DIRECTV and AT&T, without charge, at the SEC’s website, http://www.sec.gov. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by DIRECTV will be made available free of charge on DIRECTV’s website at http://www.directv.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by AT&T will be made available free of charge on AT&T’s website at http://www.att.com.
Participants in Solicitation
DIRECTV and its directors and executive officers, and AT&T and its directors and executive officers, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the holders of DIRECTV common stock in respect of the proposed merger. Information about the directors and executive officers of DIRECTV is set forth in the proxy statement for DIRECTV’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 20, 2014. Information about the directors and executive officers of AT&T is set forth in the proxy statement for AT&T’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 11, 2014. Investors may obtain additional information regarding the interest of such participants by reading the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed merger when it becomes available.[/TD]
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The high lighted bold text seems interesting. Wonder what they have in mind.
http://www.dslreports.com/shownews/ATT-Takes-Their-Fixed-LTE-Service-Nationwide-129079
Nothing like bulk LTE to rack up monthly charges. Yes probably slightly cheaper than satellite, and more responsive, but not something you can run netflix on...
I was looking at comments for Verizon Home Fusion & a lot of them said that Verizon charges against your cap for ANY LTE activity between your antenna & the cell tower,it doesn't have to be yours either or on your network. It is suggested that you turn off your router/modem when not in use. Like I said in another thread,satellite internet & home LTE internet companies really have rural customers without any other choice by the short hairs.
The only difference that I see between ATT Home Phone & Internet & Verizon HomeFusion Broadband is that HomeFusion Broadband utilizes an exterior antenna & ATT doesn't seem to. 30GB for $120.00 for both services being their top plan offered(by each),I guess Netflix won't be watched much,if at all,in homes with both services. These are definitely not services for cord cutters.
Apparently the word I was looking for with the Verizon HomeFusion overage problem is "phantom usage." It is also suggested you disable ALL automatic updates on all devices that you'd connect to Verizon(& by extension,ATT also with their new Wireless Home Phone & Internet,although you can get unlimited minutes for your phone service for $20.00 more),then update your various devices at the end of the month when you are sure you have the extra data(or tether your cell phone & update that way). Forget streaming videos,even You Tube. Someone on another thread said that you can pay for the 10 GB or 20 GB plan then up to the next highest plan for that month if you believe you are going to go over your current plan(maximum 30 GB) for Verizon. Since ATT seems to have the same prices for their plans as Verizon,I wouldn't be surprised if they have the same issues. How is it worth bundling THIS with Directv,Dish,or any other service?
The problem with so many devices is that when they are connected to wifi they think it is unlimited and free. They go crazy with updates and checking for things on the internet, backing things up, etc., burning up the LTE plan.
Dish could really shake things up if they did a fixed home LTE with huge caps (like 250-300GB) at a reasonable price.
Dish could really shake things up if they did a fixed home LTE with huge caps (like 250-300GB) at a reasonable price.
Ex AT&T CEO: Time Warner/Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV Will Lower Costs http://www.valuewalk.com/2014/05/ex-att-ceo-time-warner-comcast-attdirectv-will-lower-costs/ 
Yeah right!!
:rant:
:
Yeah right!!:rant:: 
i've been on capped satellite internet before and it sucks but you learn to live with it. Most important thing is to disable any/all automatic updates on all your devices connected to your internet. you never realize how much data you can go through just updating everything until you have to keep track of it. netlfix and other video streaming is out of the question, though you can get by with some youtube videos if you set the video quality to 360p. But even with satelite, i had an unlimited hours late at night so if i had to download large files i could without it counting against me. The most annoying thing to me though was the latency, which is inevitable due to the distance signals have to travel with satellite. any secure websites that use https are pretty much like dialup. High latency and https don't go good together. So if you pay your bills and bank online, might as well just go back to dial up
Now with LTE, your latency is good but the punitive caps and no unlimited zone make it pretty much useless outside of doing basic web browsing and some light you tube video watching.
luckily for me, a local WISP finally came through for me with unlimited data 24/7 and latency in the 30-40ms range, but there's still a lot of people, even those who live just outside big cities, who can't get anything but satellite or wireless. The only hope for these people are local WISP's.
It's why i smh when att is bragging about bringing broadband internet to 15 million rural customers. Satellite internet and fixed LTE with small caps should not be considered broadband internet and most people can get these services already, even without this merger
Now with LTE, your latency is good but the punitive caps and no unlimited zone make it pretty much useless outside of doing basic web browsing and some light you tube video watching.
luckily for me, a local WISP finally came through for me with unlimited data 24/7 and latency in the 30-40ms range, but there's still a lot of people, even those who live just outside big cities, who can't get anything but satellite or wireless. The only hope for these people are local WISP's.
It's why i smh when att is bragging about bringing broadband internet to 15 million rural customers. Satellite internet and fixed LTE with small caps should not be considered broadband internet and most people can get these services already, even without this merger
Exactly, the FCC should not consider satellite internet as broadband for counting locations as being served. The same with wireless with low caps. If the LTE for example had a 150GB cap and reasonable overages then OK (like $10/50GB) to count as being served. Just because you can technically connect to the internet at any price does not mean you are being served.
Ex AT&T CEO: Time Warner/Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV Will Lower Costs http://www.valuewalk.com/2014/05/ex-att-ceo-time-warner-comcast-attdirectv-will-lower-costs/
oh come on, we all know fewer options and less competition always results in lower prices for the consumer...
Ex AT&T CEO: Time Warner/Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV Will Lower Costs http://www.valuewalk.com/2014/05/ex-att-ceo-time-warner-comcast-attdirectv-will-lower-costs/
Oh, it'll lower costs... for AT&T/DirecTV.
It certainly won't for their customers.
It's not only rural, Verizon put in LTE in western Putnam (abt 60 miles north of the Empire State Bldg) and stop all plans to put in FiOS. My choice is crappy DSL or LTE.
How can that be? Don't their customers have to come up with the money to pay for the takeover? I mean where else are they going to get the money?Ex AT&T CEO: Time Warner/Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV Will Lower Costs http://www.valuewalk.com/2014/05/ex-att-ceo-time-warner-comcast-attdirectv-will-lower-costs/
I don't see a problem with what was said, more people on bundles sould mean a net-decrease in what consumers pay.
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