  Bharti and MTN are facing the wall as the 3rd extended deadline too nears completion. The two companies are now working towards sealing the deal ahead of the September 30 deadline.
The logic is that if they now announce another extension of deadline, the whole deal will appear to be a never-ending story. The idea is to sign the deal on papers and then leave the rest to relevant government agencies for approval.
Analysts say this way the companies can save face even if the deal fails to get government approvals as the move will be seen as being halted by the agencies rather than the two companies having any difference.
The above scenario looks unlikely atleast for now as the government agencies in both the countries are trying their best to work towards realization of the proposed merger.
South Africa’s treasury and other officials are already in India to discuss issues like dual listing and other foreign exchange control issues surrounding the deal. |