FCC approves Comcast-NBC deal

The Federal Communications Commission has approved Comcast’s purchase of NBC-Universal.

Comcast will immediately get 51 percent ownership of NBC, which comprises 10 TV stations (including local NBC10) and Universal’s programming list.

Restrictions on the deal mean Comcast will have to make NBC programs available to cable rivals, Internet video services and satellite operators.

 

NPR reported:

 

Among other things, the FCC is requiring Comcast to make NBC programming available to competitors including rival cable companies, satellite operators and new Internet video services that could pose a threat to Comcast’s core cable business. Regulators want to ensure that emerging online video platforms being developed by companies such as Netflix Inc., Amazon.com Inc. and Apple Inc. can get the movies and shows they need to grow and potentially offer a cheaper alternative to monthly cable subscriptions.

 

The Justice Department is expected to approve the deal later today.