Engaging positively
But potentially controlling 30 per cent of the US search market has raised some regulatory eyebrows, and industry sources are waiting with baited breath to see whether either the US or EC now dons the rubber gloves for a full formal probe.
In a statement to press, a Yahoo spokesperson said the agreement was "subject to regulatory approval" and that both Yahoo and Microsoft were "engaging in discussions with the regulators in Europe about the agreement."
"Yahoo and Microsoft are committed to engaging positively with the Commission about the agreement and firmly believe that the information we will be providing will confirm that this deal is not only good for both companies, but it is also good for advertisers, good for publishers, and good for consumers," the statement continued.
As to when the firms would be able to put their legal woes behind them and start actually searching for a way to capitalize on the deal, Yahoo said it was "hopeful the agreement will close in early 2010."
