<"We have a continuing dialogue [with Excite@Home], and we'd like to do something that makes sense to everybody. And if it takes a while, we'll be patient," AOL chief executive Steve Case said today in an interview with CNET News.com.
"We just haven't been able to agree on what the deal should be.">
Maybe he should just call Monte Hall from the Let's Make a Deal show to figure it out and broker it. Something like this:
Monty: Steve, behind one of these doors is the key to your dreams. A sweet signed contract from ATHM granting you free and unlimited eternal usage of their BB system. The cost is a mere 7B to take Excite off their hands, you get all its neat new content and revenues. In return they want no ad revenues but wish you well and ask that you be nice guys and remember to give everyone a turkey at Christmas.
Steve: (Dilated pupils, soft moans and heavy salivation)
Monty: And Steve, behind another one of these doors is a contract with ATHM granting you usage of their BB in exchange for 20B in AOL stock and 30% of all ad revenues and a split home page.
Steve: Can I sit down and give up my turn?
Monty: And Steve, behind another one of these doors are disgruntled AOL customers waiting to have a go at you. In addition, along with this pick, you automatically give up your ownership of AOL stock and options, which will be divided between your employees, and you work for an hourly wage in the complaint department at AOL for the rest of your natural life, minimal health coverage of course.
Steve: (Whining, crying, kicking on the floor) I don't like you! I don't want to play with you anymore! You are a bad man! Mommy!
Or, or maybe the Gong show...
'Everybody wants to rule the world...' tears for fears |
