The debate continues on the merger of XM (XMSR ) and Sirius (SIRI ) Satellite Radio as the case again comes before the Senate Committee on Commerce for round four since its original proposition in February. Opponents argue that the merger will create a monopoly, leaving a sole provider for satellite service to consumers. This, they argue, will lead to increased prices and decreased content. Advocates argue that the merger is necessary in order to compete against other technologies, including terrestrial radio, MP3 players, CD/DVD etc. The inference is that the battle between the two small companies for the limited audience is splitting the market and preventing its advance against the other technologies.
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| OPEC May Not Increase Production After All |
| Written by Miranda Marquit | |||
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OPEC production: Where is it headed?
Not too long ago (not even two weeks ago), oil prices were so high that everyone thought $100 oil could be a reality any minute. OPEC officials made noises about increasing oil production this month. Now, however, this week's OPEC meeting deciding production is likely to see no such decision. With oil prices dramatically sliding to less than $88 a barrel, Reuters reports that OPEC is likely to sit on production rate for now: 'We believe they are unlikely to do anything,' said Mike Wittner, global head of oil research at Societe Generale. 'They have the same concerns as the market -- the possibility of weakening economic growth led by the United States.'And what does that mean for Big Oil? Well, Exxon (XOM), Chevron (CVX) and ConocoPhillips (COP) are all down. Interestingly, companies that advertise their environmentally-friendly programs, BP (BP) and Statoil (STO), are up. Are we finally refusing to be fooled by the roller coaster ride of oil prices? Are we finally getting ready to move away from dependency on oil? Disclosure: I do not invest in any of the companies listed above, though I am considering STO. Site disclaimer.
Photo:Lukask, Creative Commons, Flickr
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