UTV to go into talks with SMG again?

Owner of TalkSport radio, Ulster Television, is reportedly considering a third attempt to merge with Scottish broadcasting group, SMG.

The deal, which is believed to be more attractive than the two previous bids rejected by SMG earlier this year, would lead to the creation of a £400 million media company.

UTV's current value of £200 million is now higher than SMG's £180 million. Both previous bids were rejected by SMG, as at the time its market value was significantly higher than UTV's, making it a bad deal for the Scottish group.

Stock market rules state that UTV is not allowed to make another bid for six months after its rejected bids, but can enter into discussions if another party comes in with an offer or if SMG invites UTV to make renewed bid, which analysts believe may have happened.

there must be trying to protect themselfs! agaist ITV and SKY and NTL!

this time I might surport this Meger!

THE Glasgow-based SMG and Belfast-domiciled UTV media groups have agreed the details of their merger, including a revised share split between the two.

In a surprise move UTV, the Ulster broadcaster, will own 54% of the group. Troubled SMG, which owns Scottish Television and Virgin Radio, will take the rest.

SMG investors had hoped the split would be closer to 52%-48%, but the two sides have agreed on valuations calculated prior to the news that talks had restarted.