Bouygues Telecom, Free-iliad Group, and Orange have proposed a market-changing deal for many Altice France assets, valuing them at €17 billion.
The trio's combined non-binding bid aims to consolidate the French mobile market, reducing the number of operators to three.
France's mobile market is highly competitive, with operators arguing that consolidation is necessary for viability. Altice's finances are shaky, leading to sell-offs and debt restructuring.
The would-be acquirers anticipate regulatory scrutiny and have arranged their offer accordingly.
Consolidation is necessary to keep businesses viable in France's competitive market.
Author's summary: Rivals bid €17B for Altice France assets.