Press Release: Mergers: Commission opens in-depth investigation into acquisition of controlling stake in De Vijver Media by Liberty Global

The European Commission on the 22 September 2014 opened an in-depth investigation to assess whether the proposed acquisition of joint control over De Vijver Media by Liberty Global, Corelio and Waterman & Waterman, is in line with the EU Merger Regulation. Liberty Global controls the Flemish cable operator Telenet, while De Vijver owns the Dutch-language TV-channels "Vier" and "Vijf". The Commission has therefore concerns that the proposed transaction may lead to shutting out competitors of these companies from the TV sector in Flanders. The opening of an in-depth inquiry does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation. The Commission now has 90 working days, until 5 February 2015, to take a final decision.