Softbank to acquire competitor eAccess, expand LTE network by 50 percent

Softbank isn't content with being Japan's third largest wireless provider, so its scooping up competitor eAccess for $2.3 Billion (or $1.8 Billion, if you ask Reuters) to claim the number two slot. Bringing the other carrier into the fold will give Softbank a total of 39 million subscribers and infuse its network with 50 percent more LTE base stations. Picking up the new customers and additional LTE capacity comes at a premium, however, as the firm will purchase eAccess' shares for roughly three times their value. Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son expects to launch a new tethering service with the aid of the new-found resources come this December.

Engadget , Softbank to acquire competitor eAccess, expand LTE network by 50 percent

See also:
computerworld, Softbank to acquire competitor eAccess, expand LTE network by 50 percent