Justice for Satellite Radio...Sorta

The Justice Department has finally given a go for the XM/Sirius merger (so says CNN) that was announced over a year ago (February 19th, 2007 for those keeping score). This is a big step for the two (and only) satellite radio companies in the U.S. but it still could mean diddly squat if the FCC doesn't give them the OK Go.

For the past year, stock prices have been all over the place and customers have been getting more and more angry having no idea what is to become of their current subscription. This still isn't resolved with certain "analysts" saying that new equipment would to be purchased but XM stating that current subscribers would be able to keep their current radio and still receive content. More fun than this is having to renegotiate (or create all new) contracts with auto companies (as each have exclusive deals with many a car manufacturer) as well as content including NFL, MLB, and on air personalities like Howard Stern and Oprah.

Even more fun is that no one is sure how much the new service will cost and how many services there will be. Last year, the stations had mentioned offering a la carte options from between $6.99 to $16.99 a month (compared to the $12.95 is currently costs for each) and have made a point of stating that it will cost less than $25.90 (12.95+12.95...woot math!), the current price for both subscriptions.

Bits of actual good news (other than the first paragraph) are actually here, though. Most importantly is that this ruling could help put some pressure to on the FCC as to finally come to a conclusion (it only took the Justice Department about 395 days to make their decision, c'mon FCC!). And for those partial owners of the company (i.e. stock holders), prices went up 15.5% and 8.6% for XM and Sirius, respectively.