Vodafone in talks with Liberty Global PLC

According to Vodafone Group PLC, it is in talks with Liberty Global PLC over an 'exchange of selected assets'. This could lead the two companies to a new deal related to European television and communications.

British telecommunications giant said that talks have just begun and there have not been any discussions over a complete merger with Liberty Global. In recent days, Mr. Malone publicly showed that there is a possibility of such a deal, which will lead to increased shares of Vodafone. Liberty Global is a US-based cable operator controlled by John Malone and it focuses on Europe.

Vodafone did not reveal about details of the discussions like types of assets that have been considered or geographic conditions; it just described the discussions as in 'early stages'. The company said that it is not sure if any transaction could take place as a result of talks.

Vodafone said in its statement, "There is no certainty that any transaction will be agreed, nor is there certainty with respect to which assets will ultimately be involved. Vodafone is not in discussions with Liberty Global concerning a combination of the two companies".

Earlier, Mr. Malone, the American billionaire media mogul and Liberty Global chairman, said that it will be great if Vodafone merges with his cable operator; it is the largest in Europe, when it comes to number of subscribers.

Shares of Vodafone, the world's second-largest wireless operator in terms of customers, increased 1.4% in early trading, valuing it at £65.8 billion.