**Editor's Note: Please click here for a recap of the biggest channel-impacting mergers in Q4 2012 or here for the biggest M&A during that time in the service provider-BSS/OSS spaces.**
The merger of T-Mobile USA and MetroPCS Communications "appears to be moving along without a hitch," a Yankee Group analyst said this week.
That's because the FCC and Justice Department have approved the deal, which now only awaits the nod from MetroPCS shareholders.
"That may prove a bit bumpier, but in the end will likely get done," said Yankee Group's Rich Karpinski on Wednesday, commenting specifically on a Los Angeles Times article.
MetroPCS investors will meet on April 12. Some stockholders oppose the acquisition, arguing that MetroPCS should own a larger portion of the combined company.
"MetroPCS’ argument that the combined companies will have the spectrum position, subscriber base and ‘uncarrier’ strategy required to keep both companies relevant is a strong one," Karpinski added. "Shareholders will always push for better terms, but without this deal both companies will have a hard time competing."
If the deal goes through, T-Mobile will gain another 8.9 million subscribers, for a total of 33.4 million. That standing would solidify it as the fourth-largest wireless operator in the United States, after Verizon Wireless, AT&T and Sprint.
