Comcast’s big move in 2013 — acquiring all of NBCUniversal — brightened its Q4 earnings as its TV broadcast and film units shined, but the cable firm was mum on whether a bid deal involving Time Warner Cable is brewing. Comcast (CMCSA) executives declined comment in their earnings conference call with analysts early Tuesday on whether they’re in talks with Charter Communications (CHTR), which has launched a hostile takeover bid for Time Warner
Comcast (CMCSA) reports Q4 earnings before the open Tuesday, and the cable TV leader might tip its hand on whether it aims to purchase assets of Time Warner Cable (TWC) if Charter Communications (CHTR) hostile takeover bid for that company succeeds, analysts say. The size of Comcast’s cash return to shareholders in 2014 might signal its plans, some analysts say. Comcast announced a 20% dividend hike last year as well as a $2 billion stock buyback
Time Warner Cable (TWC) rebuffed a takeover bid by smaller Charter Communications (CHTR) as speculation centered on whether Comcast (CMCSA) could become involved or if a proxy fight over control of TWC board looms. Time Warner Cable stock was up 2% in early trading in the stock market today, near 135. Charter stock was up nearly 1% while Comcast stock was up a fraction. Bloomberg reported that Charter’s “bear hug” offer late Monday was for $132.50