Liberty Global has engaged in negotiations with Vodafone to potentially acquire its stake in the Netherlands-based joint venture VodafoneZiggo. This move, first reported by Bloomberg, could significantly change the landscape of telecommunications in the Netherlands.
VodafoneZiggo was established in 2016, arising from a partnership between Vodafone Group and Liberty Global. Both companies hold equal shares in the joint venture, blending Vodafone’s mobile services with Ziggo’s broadband and television operations within Dutch borders.
For several months, this acquisition has been under discussion, and it’s rumored that Vodafone’s share could be valued at more than €2 billion. Should Liberty Global secure Vodafone’s stake, it would result in Liberty Global having complete ownership of VodafoneZiggo.
This development isn’t entirely unexpected. During a presentation at the Goldman Sachs European Communacopia Conference, Liberty Global’s CEO Mike Fries remarked, “seven years is a long time for a joint venture. So, we need to think about where we’re going with that business.”
The no-comment stance taken by all parties on the report raises questions about the future direction and strategic plans once the acquisition is finalized. Acquiring full control would allow Liberty Global more strategic flexibility, enhancing its ability to influence and execute its vision for VodafoneZiggo’s future.
