U.S. Wireless Envy May Drive Trudeau Response to Rogers Merger
- Canada’s cost for mobile data far exceeds that of the U.S.
- Oligopoly fears could force Rogers to divest some Shaw assets
Shaw’s status as a low-cost alternative to the big carriers could be altered by the deal.
Photographer: Shannon VanRaes/BloombergThis article is for subscribers only.
The fate of Rogers Communications Inc.’s $16 billion takeover of Shaw Communications Inc. may come down to which the Canadian government wants more: better wireless networks or lower prices.
The transaction would reduce the number of wireless providers to three from four in about two-thirds of the country, according to BMO Capital Markets, potentially driving up consumer costs. It could also alter Shaw’s status as a low-cost alternative to the big carriers.