The Smart Mergers Continue

It seems that the recent Kmart/Sears merger has become a fad with the major leaders of industries. Now, a possible merger between Sprint and Nextel is being considered.

A merger of the two companies, with Sprint being the third largest wireless supplier and Nextel being the fifth, would give both companies an advantage. Nextel would have access to Sprint's high-speed data network, and Sprint would have access to Nextel's well-oriented management team and business oriented base (and as a Sprint customer, I have to say they definately need some better management). Stocks for both companies have already raised because of the rumors and it is clear that this would be a profitable thing to do.

The merger would leave only four main wireless carriers in the industry. Less competitors, less price elasticity... sounds like a good idea. But is it always safe for these major competitors to be teaming up like they do? Maybe for the companies, but what about us consumers? What effect would the merger have on us, and will the merger trend continue?