In July 2013, BCE Inc. (Bell Canada) completed its acquisition of for approximately $3.38 billion . The deal, first announced in March 2012, required two attempts at regulatory approval after the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) initially blocked it due to concerns over excessive market dominance. 1. Transaction Overview

To secure the CRTC's approval , Bell agreed to significant divestitures to maintain competition: Bell's bid for Astral approved - The Globe and Mail

: To establish Bell as the leader in French-language media and to deliver content across mobile, internet, and TV platforms. 2. Regulatory Hurdles & Divestitures

: $50 per share for Class A non-voting shares and $54.83 for Class B voting shares.

: Approximately $3.38 billion, including roughly $380 million in net debt.

: Roughly 75% cash and 25% BCE common equity .