Tuesday marks the last day that responses can be made to regulators on submissions related to the proposed combination between XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.
The country's only two satellite radio operators are seeking to combine, in a deal first announced in February, when it was valued at about $4.7 billion.
In a public notice, the Federal Communications Commission said July 9 was the last day interested parties could file comments on the proposed tie-up, while responses or oppositions to such submissions must be filed by Tuesday.
Cardinal Egan, the Archbishop of New York, most recently said he approves of the proposed combination. He has a program on Sirius.
But traditional radio operators have in the past said they oppose the deal on the grounds that it would create a monopoly. But Sirius and XM Satellite have said their companies compete with terrestrial radio and other outlets.
When the satellite radio operators were first granted their licenses, it was on the grounds that the two would not combine, creating a regulatory hurdle for the proposed deal.
The companies on Monday said they plan to offer a la carte plans to consumers starting at $6.99 a month for 50 channels, and said they plan to introduce two family-friendly plans that will block adult-themed programing.
A la carte programming will be available beginning within one year following the merger, and the other programming options will be available beginning within six months following the merger, if approved.
Bear Stearns (nyse: BSC - news - people ) analyst Robert Peck said the companies will likely focus on the new programming and pricing plans, in order to demonstrate the possible benefits of a proposed merger for consumers.
XM Satellite Radio (nasdaq: XMSR - news - people ) shares declined 10 cents to end at $12.55 Monday, while Sirius shares added 9 cents, or 2.9 percent, to finish at $3.21.
source:www.forbes.com
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