USM - T-Mobile Makes Lurch Into Uninspiring Rural U.S.

2024-05-30 11:25:00 ET

Summary

• T-Mobile is buying its struggling mini-rival United States Cellular for $4.4 billion.
• The price looks decent. T-Mobile is eyeing $1 billion in synergies mainly in costs and capital expenditures.
• The target is tiny, mainly serves rural communities, and nevertheless likely will result in a tough regulatory path to clearance.

By Breakingviews

T-Mobile US ( TMUS ) is taking to the back roads. The $200 billion telecom giant is buying its struggling mini-rival United States Cellular ( USM ) for $4.4 billion. The price rings a bell. Yet, the target is tiny, mainly serves rural communities, and nevertheless likely will result in a tough regulatory path to clearance. While T-Mobile is an able acquirer, the mature industry leaves few good options for growth....

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