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Technology Stocks : (LVLT) - Level 3 Communications -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: PATRICK LEONI who wrote (1213)	8/9/1998 8:10:00 PM
From: Frank A. Coluccio	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 3873

Patrick, >>Has anyone heard any information that would lead you to believe that LVLT and QWST (Qwest Communications) might merge sometime very soon, like this week?<< No, I haven't at least. But it makes for some interesting speculation and hypothesis. What percent overlap exists in the network end-points covered, when you look at one of them on top of the other? How about route mileage overlap? Architecturally, they are significantly different, with LVLT putting heavy emphasis into IP-based operations support systems to attack the traditional markets with an improved IP platform, and a substantial amount of back office detail, while QWST has been boring ahead full speed deploying as much fiber as they can, and some traditional switching platforms. QWST also has an IP Voice infrastructure, and a formidable router deployment for IP traffic. But I don't put too much weight into their IP voice at this time, since I think it is only being used as a place holder for them until the VoIP disciplines settle into a more mature technology. Anyone know, off hand, where the overlaps are, and where the synergies could best be found, and by how much? Regards, Frank C.

To: PATRICK LEONI who wrote (1213)	8/9/1998 10:08:00 PM
From: Bill Cooper	Respond to of 3873

Patrick could you please first tell us what information you have that makes you think this will happen. Second would you please tell us all why you think that it will happen this week. Thanks. Then maybe we will all have something more to work with here.

To: PATRICK LEONI who wrote (1213)	8/9/1998 10:46:00 PM
From: Bill Cooper	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 3873

Patrick it would make all the sense in the world to merge the companies at this time. This would greatly reduce the risks for both companies going forward. Level 3 is far behind Qwest in building out their network. About 50% of the rights of way have already been purchased however by level 3 for their network. If they would only get past the past and their egos they could really build one hell of a company together. It would take a little work at first but once all the details are ironed out virtually all the overlap could be eliminated. Kind of rambling, sorry.