FRIENDS says if things don't go well with the CanWest takeover of Alliance Atlantis, the Aspers could lose control of the company.
A FCC Commissioner says that the relaxation of U.S. cross-media ownership rules will result in newsroom layoffs and less coverage of local issues.
Media consultants say that the wireless spectrum auction and the privatization of Bell Canada will be the big Canadian telecommunications stories of 2008.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers union of Canada says the CRTC's decision on CanWest's acquisition of Alliance Atlantis Communications skirts foreign ownership restrictions since a U.S. investment bank is putting up most of the money.
The Council of Canadians says the approved takeover of Alliance Atlantis could pave the way for more foreign ownership of Canadian media.
Columnist says Canada's media regulator has handed out an almost no-strings-attached approval to Goldman Sachs/CanWest's purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
Former CHUM radio executive Paul Ski has been recruited by Rogers to run its network of 51 AM and FM radio stations across the country.
Rogers has agreed to transfer complete ownership of the Toronto television news channel CP24 to CTVglobemedia.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has approved rules that will set new parameters for the size and scope of the largest news and cable companies.
Columnist calls the financial problems of the Cogeco owned TQS TV network a "black mark" on the strategy of convergence that many communications companies have pursued.
The U.S. broadcast regulator has voted to allow broadcasters in the nation's 20 largest media markets to also own a newspaper.
After facing a slew of opposition, CanWest Global must now wait until early 2008 to find out if its
A year in review of the top headlines for the Canadian broadcasting industry in 2007.
Cogeco CEO Louis Audet says he would prefer to expand his company's radio station holdings rather than sell them.
Broadcasters and newspaper publishers aren't content with a plan by the U.S. broadcast regulator to remove the existing media cross-ownership ban.
Q & A with Ian Greenberg, Astral Media's CEO.
Columnist says CTVglobemedia picked up a licence to operate a subscription radio service with the acquisition of CHUM, but tight regulatory timelines may kill the project.
A corporate communications specialist says the CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis demonstrates that putting the proper spin on a merger or acquisition is almost as important as the arrangement itself.
Editorial says the U.S. federal broadcast regulator should require a la carte pricing as a condition for approving the XM/Sirius merger.
Columnist says the proposed Alliance Atlantis takeover by CanWest/Goldman Sachs is more than a business news story; it has political and cultural implications.
Investigation reveals emails sent to Federal Communications Commission opposing the XM/Sirius merger - instigated by the National Association of Broadcasters - may not have come from real people.
CanWest's CEO tells the CRTC that after being turned down by Canadian investors, his company had no where else to turn but Wall Street to finance its takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis.
Columnist says CRTC commissioners should be skeptical of claims that U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs will have little influence in its partnership with CanWest.
CanWest has offered to make a number of changes to its financing arrangement with Goldman Sachs to ensure the U.S. investment bank has "no veto" over day-to-day decisions.
CanWest president and CEO Leonard Asper sees lowers ratings and further budget cuts if the CRTC halts the proposed purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
Unions representing media workers affected by the sale of Alliance Atlantis want the benefits package bumped to $142.2 million from $136.9 million.
CanWest is increasing its presence in the southern Ontario newspaper market by acquiring three publication groups.
Canada's broadcast regulator tells proposed buyers of Alliance Atlantis it sees problems with the power-sharing arrangement designed to skirt caps on foreign ownership.
Despite the size and complexity of the transaction in front of it, a streamlined panel of just four CRTC commissioners is presiding over the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis.
The managing director of Goldman Sachs claims his company respects the law governing foreign ownership of domestic broadcasters, adding its role is merely one of "financial backer."
Leonard Asper, chief executive of CanWest told the CRTC he would work "in a significant way" to address concerns about the influence U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs could have in the proposed acquisition of Alliance Atlantis.
Vancouver Sun is no longer a newspaper; it's a news room, according to Vancouver Sun editor Patricia Graham.
The CRTC kicked off hearings into the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis by expressing concerns about the role to be played by New York-based investment firm Goldman Sachs.
Media unions say the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis is an attempt to introduce foreign ownership of Canadian media interests by a back door.
Officials from CanWest and Goldman Sachs will attempt to convince the CRTC that the purchase of Alliance Atlantis is good for the Canadian television sector and abides by Canada's foreign ownership rules.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada has organized a demonstration to protest the CanWest/Goldman Sachs purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
The shareholders of Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio have voted by an overwhelming margin to approve the merging of the two companies.
Creative unions say media companies are cutting local news and programming to offset the costs of consolidation.
The U.S. government is looking at new rules that would allow media companies to get even bigger.
A deal for S-VOX to purchase two multi-faith television stations owned by Rogers Broadcasting will require approval from the CRTC.
Rogers has announced it will sell two multi-faith stations, commonly known as OMNI 10 and 11 to S-VOX, the owner of multi-faith and multicultural broadcaster VisionTV.
Rogers has announced that the transaction to purchase the five Citytv conventional television stations from CTVglobemedia has closed.
Media Democracy Day aims to draw attention to the current state of Canadian media and to alternatives to mainstream media.
Rogers says it will move Citytv Toronto into a new complex in the city's Yonge-Dundas Square, where it will share space with OMNI Television.
FRIENDS tells the CRTC that cultural sovereignty must come first and foremost in any redesign of the regulatory framework for big cable and satellite companies.
A columnist reporting from the Cannes television conference says the disappearance of Alliance Atlantis is a step back for Canada in the international marketplace.
Columnist says that 22 employees of Star Daily, a celebrity entertainment show, are the first victims of the CTV takeover of the CHUM specialty channels.
FRIENDS says the CanWest job cuts demonstrate that debtholders are pressuring the company, which is in the midst of trying to buy Alliance Atlantis for $2.3-billion with U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs.
Shareholders of XM and Sirius are scheduled to vote Nov. 13 on the proposed merger of the two companies
CEP says Global television has abandoned its employees and audiences in cities across the country.
Columnist says Rogers Communications and Corus Entertainment are believed to be preparing to move quickly on bids if CanWest's deal to buy Alliance falls through.
CanWest's chief executive says the company's partnership with Goldman Sachs to purchase Alliance Atlantis 'meets the letter and spirit of the law.'
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union says the CRTC is abdicating its responsibility to the Canadian public by not forcing Rogers to reinstate local news programming in its City TV stations.
As a result of its approved purchase of Standard Radio, Astral Media will become Canada's largest radio broadcaster operating 83 stations in eight provinces.
A CRTC ruling says Rogers gets to keep the five CityTV stations but must sell CHNU-TV Fraser Valley and CIIT-TV Winnipeg.
Rogers has applied for CRTC approval to extend its cable network into several fast-growing Toronto suburbs now served by Cogeco Cable.
Comments on the final day of the CRTC diversity hearings, including presentation by FRIENDS.
Rogers endorses Bell proposal for guidelines instead of firm rules for ensuring Canadian content and programming diversity in future media consolidation.
Quebecor says new wireless technology being held back by "oligopoly" of incumbent wireless operators Rogers, Telus and Bell.
FRIENDS tells the CRTC BDUs have a huge impact on diversity of voices and should be a focus of the CRTC's review.
Rogers angrily dismisses rumours it may have plans to acquire Shaw.
CRTC expresses reservations over suggestion it should ensure separation between newsrooms when companies own multiple media outlets.
E-mail exchange between Torstar CEO and editor of The Tyee concerning story on media concentration.
CRTC schedules hearings to assess proposed takeover of BCE.
Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union tells CRTC that broadcasters should be required to compete for licences when they come up for renewal.
Overview of presentations by media unions and arts organizations to CRTC diversity hearings, and further observations on nature of media coverage.
Private broadcasters argue programming diversity strengthened by industry consolidation.
Rogers says in the right circumstances, it would consider acquiring Shaw Communications, the second-largest cable company in Canada.
Shaw rearranges Calgary channel lineup for third time in nine months.
Distributors counter arguments by broadcasters that they constitute a threat to diversity in the broadcasting system.
Report suggests disproportionate media attention paid to presentations by large players at CRTC diversity hearings.
Private broadcasters vocal in opposition to market concentration rules.
Astral Media tells CRTC diversity hearing that gatekeeper role of cable companies and other broadcast distributors constitutes greatest threat to media diversity in Canada.
CRTC chair dismisses Shaw argument that future media mergers should be governed on a "case by case" basis rather than through a set of clear rules.
Report contrasts CBC, private broadcasters' presentations to CRTC diversity hearings.
Unions discuss submissions to CRTC diversity hearings.
Article questions need for CRTC diversity hearings, notes investment analysts are concerned that hearings will affect capital markets.
CBC tells CRTC diversity hearings that CBC can serve as a partial counterbalance to private sector consolidation.
CRTC seeks broadcaster comments on scenarios for potential media concentration limits.
Private broadcasters, distributors, arts groups expected to face off at CRTC diversity hearings.
Interview with XM executives awaiting clearance on merger with Sirius.
Executives predict a long hiatus before further media sector takeovers occur in Canada.
CTV agrees to keep news truck suspended from side of former CHUM-City building it recently acquired, but vehicle will be rebranded.
One of the biggest media companies in Turkey is up for sale and CanWest Global rumored to be a potential buyer.
The chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment says the forces of globalization are encouraging the proliferation of cultural diversity.
Columnist says that if the CRTC went ahead with scheduled public hearings into CanWest's $2.3-billion buyout of Alliance Atlantis, opponents would have had legal grounds to overturn the eventual ruling.
ACTRA is calling on the CRTC to force broadcasters that acquire rivals to spend more on homegrown dramas and less on U.S. shows.
Federal broadcast regulators say Rogers is on the hook for $20-million that CHUM was to have contributed toward various initiatives as a result of its 2004 takeover of Craig Media Inc.
Rogers tells the CRTC they will return the CityTV stations to profitability by airing more first-run U.S. network series in primetime.
Industry representatives are calling for more funding of Canadian drama, a renewed commitment to domestic feature films and more local programming as part of Rogers' proposed purchase of the CityTV stations.
According to disclosure documents, XM Satellite Radio spent $580,000 and Sirius Satellite Radio spent $230,000 lobbying the U.S. government on their proposed merger.
Although the sale of Alliance Atlantis still requires regulatory approval, several on the company's top executives have been let go.
The CRTC says a 10-week delay in the hearing to examine the CanWest/Goldman Sachs acquisition of Alliance Atlantis was caused by the late filing of documents by CanWest.
Rogers executives tell the CRTC their plans to revive CityTV include rebuilding the network's prime-time schedule and searching out a high-profile downtown Toronto headquarters.
The head of broadcasting at Rogers Communications says the CityTV stations are unlikely to turn a profit until the third year of the cable firm's ownership.
The CRTC has told CanWest CEO Leonard Asper that he only has himself to blame for the delay in hearing his company's bid to gain control over Alliance Atlantis' specialty channels.
FRIENDS says that by delaying its hearing on the CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover of Alliance Atlantis, the CRTC is demonstrating it won't simply rubber stamp the deal.
Rogers has added $2 million to its benefits package and agreed to fund priority Canadian programming during CRTC hearings on its $375 million purchase of five CityTV stations.
The CRTC has announced a delay of two months of its review of CanWest Global's $2.3-billion bid to acquire Alliance Atlantis.
Pending CRTC approval, CanWest will merge its Global TV network with Alliance Atlantis's 13 specialty channels; Goldman Sachs will take a 50% stake in the CSI TV crime series franchise and Motion Picture Distribution.
ACTRA says that if decisions about Canada's broadcasting system are made in boardrooms in New York and Los Angeles, Canadians will lose their cultural sovereignty and national identity.
Alliance Atlantis reported a 65 per cent increase in quarterly profit, one day before its takeover by CanWest/Goldman Sachs was set to close.
The Writers Guild of Canada says that if the CRTC approves the Alliance Atlantis takeover, an American corporation will have a powerful voice in what Canadians can watch on television.
The Directors Guild of Canada says it is opposed to the Alliance Atlantis takeover by CanWest/Goldman Sachs as it will result in a non-Canadian entity obtaining control of an important Canadian media company, contrary to established foreign ownership rules.
The Coalition of Canadian Audio-Visual Unions says the takeover bid by CanWest Global and Goldman Sachs of Alliance Atlantis is "bad news" for Canada.
FRIENDS offers advice to the CRTC on CanWest's application to acquire Alliance Atlantis Communications.
Columnist says that with Leonard Asper moving the heart of CanWest's business to Toronto and the Craig family selling the A-channel network, the potential of Winnipeg becoming a national media powerhouse has evaporated.
The co-ordinator of Canadians for Democratic Media says with major mergers threatening to make the Canadian media industry even more concentrated, the CRTC should regulate media companies in the public interest.
Columnist says federal broadcast regulators appear poised to consider revamping the rules on media consolidation, using a system pioneered by the Australian government.
FRIENDS supports the Rogers acquisition of CHUM City Stations, but offers suggestions for the benefit of Canadian programming.
Ted Rogers dispels a rumor that his company is seeking to merge with Shaw Communications.
Columnist expects the deal between CanWest and Goldman Sachs to break up Alliance Atlantis to be scrutinized by the CRTC.
CanWest says it will use bridge financing instead of a high-yield debt offering to fund its takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis.
CanWest and U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs release their plan to split-up Alliance Atlantis.
CanWest Global says it is increasing its equity investment in the takeover of Alliance Atlantis to $262-million, up from the previously announced $200-million.
Sirius and XM Satellite Radio say they would offer two "à la carte" pricing plans if they are allowed to merge.
XM and Sirius Satellite Radio executives have announced pricing plans that they said would let customers choose which channels they want to receive if the two firms are combined.
The Canadian Association of Broadcasters says traditional media companies should be allowed to merge to compete with unregulated content providers.
Columnist says CanWest will be a likely suitor for Canada's smallest specialty sports channel if the purchase of Alliance Atlantis is approved.
FRIENDS says unregulated services threaten to undermine the goals of the Broadcasting Act, and segments of the Canadian media industry now suffer from the negative impact of excessive concentration.
Organization says more than 1,000 Canadians have written the CRTC asking for policies to limit concentration and cross-ownership in the media.
The co-ordinator of Canadians for Democratic Media encourages citizens to speak out on media concentration.
Michael Geist says the CRTC should consider the issue of Internet network neutrality as part of its diversity of voices hearings, so that large media companies are not able to prioritize their own content over diverse, third-party offerings.
Article says the next few months will see the CRTC tackle big issues such as foreign ownership, media concentration and Canadian content.
CanWest shares have fallen 10 per cent since announcing the decision not to sell its Australian TV network.
Astral's chief executive officer says his company is open to more media acquisitions after spending more than $1-billion to buy Standard Broadcasting.
The chief executive of Corus Entertainment has hinted that the company is looking for an alliance with a major Canadian broadcaster to boost profits for its television stations.
Rogers Media is optimistic that its plans to buy a multicultural channel in Vancouver will be approved by the CRTC, despite its pending purchase of CityTV Vancouver.
NDP heritage critic Charlie Angus is urging citizens to register their concerns over the concentration of the Canadian media industry.
Rogers bid to purchase a multicultural television station in Vancouver must be approved by the CRTC.
CRTC says hearings on CanWest's proposed acquisition of Alliance Atlantis will focus on how the merger would impact the broadcasting landscape and whether assets will remain under Canadian control.
FRIENDS says the biggest issue with the proposed CanWest bid for Alliance Atlantis is CanWest's claim that it is keeping effective ownership and control in Canadian hands when 85 percent of the equity is coming from a New York merchant bank.
Conrad Black's fraud trial in Chicago has provided a glimpse into his back room dealings with CanWest's Izzy Asper.
Article says The Carlyle Group is in discussions with Virgin Media over a potential takeover bid worth approximately $20 billion.
Columnist says the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board is on the verge of winning a contentious auction for BCE Inc.
A campaign called Canadians for Democratic Media has launched to highlight media consolidation issues in Canada and generate support for public and grassroots media.
Rogers has told the CRTC that it will sell OMNI stations in Vancouver and Winnipeg in an effort to clear the way for its $375-million purchase of the CITY-TV network.
Telus decides not to bid for BCE leaving offers from three private-equity groups.
Poll reveals that nearly half of Canadians don't believe Ottawa should approve a merger between BCE and Telus.
CTVglobemedia reveals that the CRTC told the company it would be in for a lengthy battle if the forced sale of CityTV was challenged.
The CRTC hearing for Astral Media's proposed takeover of Standard Broadcasting will take place at the same time as the hearing for CanWest Global and U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs' bid for Alliance Atlantis.
Columnist says a flurry of recent broadcast deals has convinced the owner of Canada's third largest sports network to put The Score up for sale.
Columnist says killing a Telus/BCE merger might win the Conservatives votes, but would leave Mr. Harper open to criticism over his heavy-handed intrusion into markets.
Article says a merger between Telus and BCE would create a company worth more than $50-billion that would dominate the land-line telephone and cellphone markets across most of the country.
An industry analyst suggests CanWest might need to boost its stake in Alliance Atlantis to 56% from 29% to allay foreign ownership concerns.
Blog post questions whether CanWest Global's decision not to sell its Australian television network will give the company sufficient resources to participate in a bid for BCE.
Goldman Sachs has offered to buy out other parties in Alliance Atlantis' movie distribution arm, but investors say they are being lowballed.
Columnist outlines Rogers Communications' plan to become a major player in Canadian television.
The A-Channel network, a collection of seven small television stations, is expected to be given a makeover as its new owner, CTVglobemedia, looks to revitalize the struggling broadcaster.
FRIENDS says Ottawa's A-Channel may be sold to Rogers in the next few months.
FRIENDS says the company may eventually want to add the "Rogers" brand to the CityTV stations.
CEP says Canada's big media corporations are now in the position of choosing their competitors behind closed doors.
Rogers agrees to buy the five Citytv television stations CTVglobemedia was ordered to sell in a deal valued at approximately $375 million.
Article says $375 million deal will increase Rogers' TV presence in Canada's largest markets.
Columnist says the CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision shows that CRTC chair Konrad von Finckenstein will not bend the rules on media concentration.
Finance Minister Jim Flaherty says Ottawa must be wary of corporate takeovers by foreign companies beholden to another government's agenda.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission is seeking comment on the proposed merger of licensees Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio.
Editorial claims that the old CRTC rules have been bypassed by the modern reality of the Canadian media business.
Columnist says Canada's media industry is entering into a period of business intrigue, speculation and gossip.
Columnist says future media merger decisions should be postponed until CRTC hearings on media consolidation and diversity, set for September, provide a framework.
FRIENDS says the CRTC has protected editorial diversity in local news and more choices for Canadian content during prime time with its decision to carve out five CityTV stations from the assets acquired by CTVglobemedia from CHUM.
Columnist notes the CRTC took the direction recommended by FRIENDS in their CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision.
FRIENDS applauds the CRTC decision requiring CTVglobemedia to sell CHUM's CityTV stations but allowing them to keep its A-Channel stations.
FRIENDS comments on potential buyers for CHUM's CityTV stations in a CBC Radio One interview.
Columnist says Quebecor and Rogers could find themselves in a bidding war for CHUM's CityTV stations.
FRIENDS says the CRTC "did its job" by making the approval of the CTVglobemedia/CHUM deal conditional on the sale of the Citytv stations.
FRIENDS says the CRTC's CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision ensures that three private-sector national television networks, rather than two, will operate in English-speaking Canada.
CRTC chair says the broadcast regulator's CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision was based on the policy of "maintaining diversity of voices within the Canadian broadcasting system."
FRIENDS says CRTC decision is good for viewers, advertisers and competition and diversity in the Canadian broadcasting system.
Columnist says the CRTC decision will lead to the collapse of a deal CTV struck to sell A-Channel stations to Rogers Communications.
The CRTC has not approved the transfer of five CityTV stations in Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver to CTVglobemedia.
Columnist says that eyes are on FP Newspapers Income Fund as the next potential takeover target in the Canadian newspaper sector.
Columnist says little has changed in the fall lineup for CityTV and A-Channel because a proposed takeover bid from CTVglobemedia requires CRTC approval.
A media policy group's study finds a lack of diversity in the ownership of radio station licenses in the U.S.
Osprey Media Income Fund has been sold to Quebecor in a $517-million deal.
CanWest Global is selling off its stake in one of the country's biggest free newspapers in Vancouver and Ottawa.
Calgary is home to both winners of the 2007 Dalton Camp Award, an annual essay contest on the link between democratic values and the quality of media in Canada.
Article says Canadian television network executives are banking on U.S. hit programs to fuel media takeover bids.
The public broadcast regulator has allowed Alliance Atlantis to split and form a separate, numbered company to hold properties – primarily its cable channels – whose sale are subject to CRTC regulation.
A stock rating agency has placed CanWest MediaWorks Income Fund under review following an announcement by the Fund’s parent that it intends to take the Fund, which owns many of Canada’s daily newspapers, private.
Trustee appointment for CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis receives CRTC approval.
CanWest proposes to buy back the income trust that owns 10 daily newspapers including the Vancouver Sun, Ottawa Citizen and The Gazette of Montreal.
Analyst says CanWest Global's involvement in a bid for telecom giant BCE may be a ruse to peer into the books of one of its main media rivals.
Sirius Satellite Radio chief executive Mel Karmazin says the XM/Sirius merger faces an uphill battle because of strong opposition from the National Association of Broadcasters.
Article says CanWest Global has signed up as a partner on a bid for BCE led by U.S. private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management.
Britain's competition watchdog will carry out an inquiry into British Sky Broadcasting's controversial purchase of a significant stake in ITV.
A New York-based private equity company has approached Shaw Communications and CanWest Global to join a possible buying group for BCE.
Industry analysts say the deal could face regulatory hurdles.
FRIENDS says the CRTC followed its procedures when it refused to consider CTVglobemedia's offer to sell up to three CityTV stations to push through its takeover of CHUM.
Merger between Thomson Corp. and Reuters Group would form the world's largest financial information company.
Corus Entertainment and Cogeco are creating a new company that will combine the two media companies' national radio sales teams.
The co-president of Goldman Sachs, the U.S. company financing CanWest's takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis, encourages Canadian CEOs to jump on the international deal-making bandwagon.
Growth in broadcast advertising and worldwide sales of the CSI television series has pushed Alliance Atlantis first-quarter profit to $41.2-million.
The federal broadcast regulator says CTVglobemedia did not follow proper process when it offered to sell up to three Citytv television stations in an attempt to push through its $1.7-billion purchase of CHUM.
CTVglobemedia has offered to sell a Citytv station in Winnipeg and possibly two others in Calgary and Edmonton to push through its $1.7-billion purchase of CHUM Ltd.
CanWest Global Communications has entered a lockup agreement to sell CanWest MediaWorks (NZ) Ltd. to an Australian private equity firm for an expected $314M.
CTVglobemedia upped the value of its benefits package and pledged more local programming in Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg, as part if the company's proposed takeover bid of CHUM.
CTVglobemedia tells the CRTC there will be no overlap of programming between its over-the-air CTV stations and the CityTV outlets it wants to purchase from CHUM.
A supportive quote from Peter Herrndorf, a current member of CBC's board of directors, has been included in CTVglobemedia's application to acquire CHUM - a deal the CBC opposes.
Article says that if the CRTC approves the CTVglobemedia $1.4-billion takeover of CHUM, the deal will require an unprecedented bending of federal rules.
CRTC commissioner calls CTVglobemedia's request to own two major TV stations in five Canadian cities a monumental exemption from longstanding CRTC broadcasting policy.
The CRTC forces CTV executives to provide assurances a merged CTVglobemedia/CHUM would not simply milk profits and stifle attempts at creative TV programming.
CTVglobemedia wants the CRTC to make an exception and allow the company to own two TV stations in a market because CHUM's CityTV stations need CTV's injection of cash to stay afloat.
Columnist observes that CRTC precedent may force CTVglobemedia to divest television channels in certain markets to lessen ownership concentration.
Columnist says that with other media mergers waiting for approval, all eyes will be on CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein to observe the tone, pacing and precedent he sets during the CTVglobemedia/CHUM review.
FRIENDS questions how the unprecedented clout of a merged CTVglobemedia-CHUM will affect competition in Canada's television industry.
Industry analysts say CTVglobemedia and Quebecor may look at initial public offerings to capitalize on a renewed interest in media stocks.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada says neither the CRTC nor Canadians have been told what CTV plans to do with 65 radio and television stations it proposes to buy from CHUM.
Three separate reports from industry analysts say it is unlikely the proposed merger of XM and Sirius will be approved.
A CanWest partnership is set to launch two new community newspapers in the Ottawa area.
FRIENDS says if the CRTC allows CTVglobemedia to retain CHUM's CityTV stations it would violate the regulator's own policy against common ownership of two stations serving identical markets.
CanWest Global and U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs have received Competition Bureau approval of their proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis Communications.
Columnist says Leonard and Izzy Asper's rush for media convergence led to Hollinger getting the better end of the deal for its Canadian newspapers in 2000.
Canada's biggest telecommunications company has confirmed it is in talks with Canadian pension funds to take BCE private.
The president of XM Canada's parent company Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings says he is disappointed by sales of satellite radio subscriptions.
Improved Canadian television operations helped CanWest Global turn a $7 million profit in its second quarter.
Hearings will examine policies governing ownership concentration for both conventional broadcasters and the specialty-channel sector.
Canada's broadcast regulator has launched a public proceeding to review issues relating to common ownership of Canadian broadcasting companies.
Astral Media's chief executive officer says satellite radio is not likely to have a significant impact on the traditional radio business.
Columnist says the Astral Media acquisition of Standard Radio will see one company dominate Canada's radio airwaves.
Ontario Superior Court has set May 18 for a fairness hearing to consider a bid by the Movie Distribution Income Fund to halt the CanWest/Goldman Sachs proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis.
Astral Media has announced a $1.08 billion agreement to purchase the assets of Standard Radio.
Stakeholders are ramping up efforts to influence the U.S. Federal Communications Commission hearing on the proposed XM/Sirius merger.
Industry analyst says Rogers' proposed purchase of CHUM assets may create more competition for U.S. programming and drive up costs for CTV and CanWest.
FRIENDS says the Rogers deal to purchase A-Channel stations could fall through if the CRTC does not approve CTVglobemedia's acquisition of CHUM.
FRIENDS expresses concern over local news in Barrie in the wake of the proposed A-Channel sale to Rogers.
FRIENDS says despite the proposed deal with Rogers, it is likely the CRTC will tell CTVglobemedia to keep the A-Channels and sell CHUM's five major TV stations in Winnipeg, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver.
FRIENDS says Canadians would be better served if Rogers owned CHUM's Citytv stations, rather than A-Channel stations, resulting in three private-sector national TV networks.
Rogers would become the fifth owner of A-Channel Ottawa, also known as CHRO TV, since it began in 1961.
Rogers' $137.5-million deal with CTVglobemedia to buy 10 stations would make the company Canada's third-largest private-sector English-language TV owner.
FRIENDS says the sale of A-Channel stations could hurt local news coverage because new ownership may wish to cut costs.
Agreement would see Rogers purchase CHUM assets - six A-Channel stations, ACCESS Alberta, CLT and SexTV - from CTVglobemedia.
FRIENDS recommends that in exchange for approving CTVglobemedia's acquisition of CHUM's radio and specialty television assets, CTVglobemedia should be required to divest the five CHUM/City stations and to retain CHUM's six A-Channel stations
FRIENDS says the CRTC might order CTVglobemedia to sell Citytv stations and retain ownership of A-Channels in smaller markets as part of the takeover of CHUM.
Quebecor CEO says his company may join the media consolidation fray if conditions become favourable after the CRTC considers new rules for takeovers in the broadcast sector.
The Movie Distribution Income Fund is going to court to seek a veto over the proposed $2.3-billion takeover of Alliance Atlantis by CanWest/Goldman Sachs.
Shareholders of Alliance Atlantis have voted more than 99 per cent to accept a $2.3-billion takeover offer from CanWest and New York investment bank Goldman Sachs.
Article suggests mergers do not always deliver on their promises.
Article says a financial audit will delay the closing of the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantic by CanWest Global/Goldman Sachs until July or August.
CanWest Global/Goldman Sachs and Alliance Atlantis now expect to complete the $2.3 billion proposed purchase in July or August, rather than in May.
Columnist speculates recent stock deals may mean CanWest Global is attempting to take control of Score Media - the owner of the sports TV channel 'The Score'.
XM Canada tells subscribers that following a merger of Sirius and XM in the U.S., they expect that existing hardware will be able to receive programming from both services.
Article comments that Canadian satellite radio subscribers are caught in the middle of the proposed U.S. satellite radio merger, and may see their service and monthly fees change.
A former U.S. Justice Department official told a Senate subcommittee that the proposed Sirius/XM merger would harm consumers and violate antitrust laws.
Columnist says that if the U.S. broadcast regulator approves the Sirius/XM merger, it will open the door for more consolidation among major media companies.
François Desjardins reports that the president of Astral's radio division has acknowledged that economic factors can work against diversity and competition in media concentration.
The president of Astral Media Radio, who is in negotiations to buy Standard Radio, says media consolidation is financially advantageous but care must be taken not to lose diversity of voices and regional content.
Columnist says the CRTC either caved to public pressure or saw reason - or both - and decided to postpone its hearings on media concentration until next fall.
FRIENDS says the announced CRTC review of media concentration in Canada is a good sign and shows the broadcast regulator is concerned about the question of Canadian voices.
The president of the National Association of Broadcasters tells the U.S. broadcast regulator to oppose the proposed merger of the nation's two satellite radio companies because Sirius/XM cannot be trusted with monopoly power.
FRIENDS notes that under new chairman, Konrad von Finckenstein, the CRTC might tighten its policies on media takeovers.
In the wake of two major amalgamations of Canadian media companies in the past year, the federal broadcasting regulator plans to look at ways to preserve a "diversity of voices" in the broadcasting system.
CRTC news release says that in light of the current wave of media consolidation the regulator will examine how to ensure the broadcasting system provides Canadians with a diversity of voices.
Study shows that the pace of change in the media industry has accelerated in the past year.
The proposed CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover of Alliance Atlantis would see the Alliance CEO keep "all trophies, prizes and awards."
NDP Heritage Critic Charlie Angus has called for new CRTC hearings into media concentration arising from the CTV/CHUM purchase.
Osprey Media, one of the oldest names in Canadian publishing, may be selling the family business.
Alliance Atlantis, which hopes to be acquired by CanWest Global and U.S. based Goldman Sachs, posted a fourth quarter loss of $16.6 million.
Alain Pineau, CCA's National Director, calls on the Heritage Minister to prolong the hearings on the proposed CTVglobemedia takeover of CHUM to ensure an honest, transparent and responsible public discussion.
Canada's largest media union calls on the CRTC to hold an open, transparent and accountable review of the CBC mandate.
FRIENDS says the CRTC is following due process, so far, with its upcoming hearings into CTVglobemedia's purchase of CHUM.
The chief executive of Sirius Satellite Radio attempts to sell U.S. federal regulators on the idea that satellite radio is competing with all forms of audio entertainment and therefore a merged Sirius/XM would not be a monopoly.
Columnist notes that viewers, unions, artists' groups and other non-industry parties have only 24 working days to submit their interventions to the CRTC on the proposed CTVglobemedia takeover of CHUM.
The federal Competition Board has cleared CTVglobemedia's $1.7-billion proposed takeover of CHUM - the CRTC must still approve the deal.
FRIENDS says the federal Competition Bureau didn't consider important matters such as diversity of voices in local broadcasting when it analyzed the proposed CTVglobemedia takeover of CHUM.
Hearings into the proposed purchase of CHUM by CTVglobemedia are scheduled to begin April 30 and will be chaired by the newly appointed CRTC Chair Konrad von Finckenstein.
The CRTC has announced it is prepared to revamp its policy of limiting broadcasters to ownership of only one station in a single market.
Sirius and XM Satellite Radio tell the U.S. Congress they would agree to government-imposed price controls and other measures to gain regulatory approval for their proposed merger.
Senior executives with CHUM say that the company plans to continue pursuing acquisitions of its own as it awaits a federal decision on its takeover bid by CTVglobemedia.
Some analysts and investors are worried that the current frenzied media concentration atmosphere will result in Astral Media overpaying for Standard Broadcasting.
Shares of Astral Media fell the most in two years after analysts speculated the Montreal firm might pay up to $1.2 billion for Standard Radio.
XM Satellite Radio, the broadcaster that is being acquired by its rival Sirius Satellite Radio, posted a fourth-quarter loss of $256.7 million (USD).
A proposed $1.2-billion media merger would see Astral Media swallow Standard Broadcasting to become Canada's largest network of commercial radio stations.
Antitrust experts are saying Sirius and XM Satellite Radio will have trouble persuading the U.S. Justice Department to approve their merger because it will create a monopoly.
Article claims Astral Media is in talks to buy radio powerhouse Standard Broadcasting.
An investment analyst predicts more mergers and acquisitions in Canada's media industry in 2007.
Columnist says that a merger of Sirius Canada and XM Canada would face intense regulatory scrutiny.
Investors and analysts are worried that U.S. antitrust regulators will block the proposed merger between Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio.
Article says that CanWest's track record in Australia demonstrates the company is willing to flaunt national broadcast policies and keep its intentions hidden.
Ethnic Internet TV broadcaster JumpTV says it will raise $117.4-million in a share offering and is looking at acquisitions to expand its reach.
Columnist speculates that Jim Shaw Jr.'s pullout from the Canadian Television Fund may mean the company is losing interest in Canadian TV and will look to sell its interest in Corus Entertainment.
Columnist says that restrictions on foreign ownership of Canadian media companies mean that Goldman Sachs will need to sell off the Alliance Atlantis motion picture distribution arm.
Dozens of advertisers and broadcasters have been ordered to produce data on how television commercials are bought and sold, suggesting the federal Competition Bureau is studying the impact the proposed takeover of CHUM will have on Canadian advertising markets.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada tells the new CRTC Chair to hold public hearings concerning concentration of ownership in Canada's broadcast media.
CanWest Global has confirmed it is considering a buyback of the income fund that owns newspapers such as The Vancouver Sun, Edmonton Journal and Montreal Gazette.
Article reports that the CRTC previously approved a small Newfoundland cable firm's privatization with a U.S. backer, suggesting a potential precedent for CanWest’s bid for Alliance.
Article details the strategy and motivation behind the proposed sale of CHUM to Bell Globemedia.
Columnist notes that new CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein's track record as the head of Canada's Competition Bureau may not bode well for the takeover of CHUM by CTVglobemedia, and the deal between Canwest/Goldman Sachs and Alliance Atlantis.
The performers' union tells the Canadian Film and Television Production Association that, instead of fighting each other in court, they should be working together on issues such as media concentration and Shaw Communications' pullout from the Canadian Television Fund.
Article says Rogers Communications is now the largest communications service provider in Canada by market value and may be interested in acquiring its cable counterpart in Western Canada, Shaw Communications.
FRIENDS expects the ownership structure in the CanWest/Alliance Atlantis deal to be challenged by the CRTC under Canadian regulations limiting foreign ownership of media companies to 47%.
CRTC taxation on regulated television assets could bump the Alliance Atlantis purchase price by $125 million to $150 million.
Stock prices of Sirius and XM Satellite Radio took a blow after the U.S. regulator indicated that a merger between the two companies would likely be blocked.
Article says that CanWest, with the support of Goldman Sachs, plans to use its take-over of Alliance Atlantis as a springboard for other Canadian and foreign media acquisitions.
FRIENDS says there is good chance the CRTC will not allow the Alliance Atlantis sale to CanWest and an American investment bank because of Canada's foreign ownership rules.
New York investment bank Goldman Sachs plans to invite some of Canada's biggest pension funds into the Alliance Atlantis purchase in an attempt to "Canadianize the deal".
The Communications, Energy & Paperworkers Union of Canada will urge the CRTC to deny approval of the Alliance Atlantis purchase on grounds that it is largely financed by a foreign company.
Goldman Sachs's options for cashing out on its investment in Alliance Atlantis include a multibillion-dollar offering of TV assets in 2010.
CanWest CEO says his company will control the content programming and will control the voting shares in the joint venture with U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs.
Media unions say the purchase of Alliance Atlantis will have consequences for Canadian audiences, content creators, advertisers and media employees.
Without high TV profits, CanWest could risk holding less than half of the company in 2011 when CanWest and Goldman Sachs divide the shares of the recently formed joint-venture.
The CRTC will need to uncover who has control in the CanWest/Goldman Sachs joint venture to determine whether the Alliance Atlantis purchase meets foreign ownership rules.
$2.3 billion dollar deal will, if finalized, give CanWest access to 13 specialty channels including Showcase and Food Network Canada.
CARTT says the competitive imbalance caused by the CTVglobemedia/CHUM merger may make it unlikely that the CRTC will stop the CanWest/Goldman Sachs purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
A bond rating service has changed their ranking of CanWest until there is clarity regarding the structure and terms of the proposed acquisition of Alliance Atlantis.
FRIENDS says that possible CRTC intervention into the CanWest/Goldman Sachs purchase of Alliance Atlantis may cause concern for investors.
CanWest Global confirms that it, along with U.S. based Goldman Sachs, have entered into exclusive discussions regarding the purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
A majority stake for U.S. based Goldman Sachs in the takeover of Alliance Atlantis would test federal regulations on foreign ownership of Canadian media.
Article says a CanWest acquisition of Alliance Atlantis may pressure Astral and Corus into a merger, further concentrating the Canadian media industry.
Columnist says CanWest's pursuit of Alliance Atlantis began in August 2006, when the company teamed up with a New York investment bank to make a pre-emptive strike on the specialty TV broadcaster.
Article says Goldman Sachs has teamed up with CanWest Global Communications to make a $2.1-billion offer for Alliance Atlantis Communications.
Canada's largest media union is calling for stiff government reaction to media ownership concentration that endangers the country's cultural and information environment.
A merger of Sirius and XM in the U.S. would create a messy situation for Canadian satellite radio companies that are reliant on foreign programming.
Columnist predicts that media concentration, sports broadcasting rights and CRTC reform will be among the major issues in the media industry for 2007.
