LONDON (Brand Republic) - Vivendi Universal is understood to be in discussions to raise its stake in US cable TV network USA Networks.
According to reports, Vivendi CEO Jean-Marie Messier told investors he is looking to swap part of Vivendi鈥檚 stake in BSkyB for Liberty Media鈥檚 20% stake in USA Networks.
The stake would be the equivalent of a 14% stake in BSkyB, according to Credit Lyonnais.
Vivendi agreed to sell its 27% stake in the satellite broadcaster in return for approval from European competition authorities of its merger with Seagram and Canal+.
USA Networks, which was formerly 43% owned by Seagram, owns USA Network, the Sci-Fi Channel and the Home Shopping Network.