Steve Mehs
03-26-03, 04:14 AM
Liberty Media hinted that it's still interested in acquiring DirecTV, but didn't make any strong suggestions it would try to obtain the satellite TV company at any cost.
Liberty President and CEO Robert Bennett said Tuesday that Liberty sees DirecTV as "an important strategic asset." He added, "We like to buy things we can help and grow." But executives on a conference call discussing the company's 2002 financial performance remained non-commital on a DirecTV deal.
The comments followed an interview Reuters conducted with Liberty Chairman John Malone on his company's interest in the satellite TV company and its parent, Hughes Electronics. Malone told the wire service he expects Liberty to make an offer for DirecTV on its own, but the media giant hasn't ruled out teaming up with News Corp.
And Malone said he doesn't think Liberty would have a chance to acquire DirecTV if SBC Communications makes a run for the satellite TV service, given that the phone company would have more money for a potential deal.
As for the fourth quarter performances for some of its businesses, Liberty said operating cash flow rose during the three-month period at Starz Encore ($102 million from $76 million last year) and Discovery Communications ($142 million compared to $100 million last year).
From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com/skyreport/mar2003/032603.shtm#onc) (Used with Permission)
Liberty President and CEO Robert Bennett said Tuesday that Liberty sees DirecTV as "an important strategic asset." He added, "We like to buy things we can help and grow." But executives on a conference call discussing the company's 2002 financial performance remained non-commital on a DirecTV deal.
The comments followed an interview Reuters conducted with Liberty Chairman John Malone on his company's interest in the satellite TV company and its parent, Hughes Electronics. Malone told the wire service he expects Liberty to make an offer for DirecTV on its own, but the media giant hasn't ruled out teaming up with News Corp.
And Malone said he doesn't think Liberty would have a chance to acquire DirecTV if SBC Communications makes a run for the satellite TV service, given that the phone company would have more money for a potential deal.
As for the fourth quarter performances for some of its businesses, Liberty said operating cash flow rose during the three-month period at Starz Encore ($102 million from $76 million last year) and Discovery Communications ($142 million compared to $100 million last year).
From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com/skyreport/mar2003/032603.shtm#onc) (Used with Permission)