BHunt.. I think the probability of BEL buying OMPT is non-existent. However, OMPT should be up on Tuesday with all of the wireless merger mania. Until the FCC relaxes the spectrum cap (currently at 45MHz) it would be impossible for OMPT and BEL to do a deal (independent of GSM/CDMA technology differences). Actually, this 45MHz rule is what is forcing discomfort between ATI, BEL, and GTE where PrimeCo and GTE overlap (Tampa, Houston, etc.) This is a primary reason BEL was trying to avoid some non-compete clauses with ATI by purchasing their ownership interests.
Anyway, I think OMPT's future is bright with all of the attention/value being placed on wireless. Over the last year, networking stocks, internet stocks and blue chips seem to be getting alot of attention. With values so high, my opinion is that wireless stocks are a good place to be after seeing what ATI was able to do for shareholders over the last five years ($12 billion to $60 billion in value) This should really start propelling some new $$ into wireless companies and no other wireless company is as strategically positioned as OMPT. If 4Q net adds are higher than street estimates-we could be back up in high teens in the next few weeks even without any merger announcement. Good time to enjoy the ride and pick more up on the dips. JMO |
