NYT:
The proposed combination of Comcast and NBC Universal was approved by the Federal Communications Commission and the Justice Department on Tuesday, smoothing the way for the deal to close by the end of January.
As expected, the approvals came with significant conditions attached. The combination of Comcast’s cable systems and NBC Universal’s channels will create a media powerhouse, and it will represent the first time that a cable company will control a major broadcast network.
The FCC approved the merger on a 4-1 vote, with Michael Copps voting against the merger. Copps said he was concerned that the merger threatens the openness of Internet, warning against the "cable-ization" of internet service. As part of the deal, the DOJ's antitrust division required Comcast to give up its management role in the online video service Hulu, though Comcast will continue to provide content to the service.
According to the NYT, the deal will close at the end of the month.
Join the conversation in Josh Stearn's recommended diary, Just Announced: Comcast/NBC Merger Approved By FCC.