In 2014, the boards of AT&T and DirecTV agreed to a $48.5 billion merger. You have been tasked with evaluating the merger. Here are some basic facts about the companies: AT&T is the second-largest telecomμnications company in the United States, providing wireless, broadband, and television services. DirecTV is a satellite television provider with a large customer base. As part of your evaluation, you need to consider the potential benefits and challenges of the merger. What are some potential benefits of the AT&T and DirecTV merger?
1) Increased market share for AT&T in the television industry
2) Synergies between AT&T's telecomμnications services and DirecTV's television services
3) Expanded customer base for both companies
4) Improved bargaining power with content providers