Telekom Srbija Expands with EUR 1.5 Billion Deal
Deal News | May 16, 2025 | CEE Legal Matters
Gecic Law advised Telekom Srbija on its landmark acquisition of NetTV Plus, Total TV operations in Serbia and North Macedonia, and Western Balkans Sport Klub rights from United Group, with a combined enterprise value of EUR 1.5 billion. This transaction, one of the largest in Serbia's telecom sector, signifies a significant expansion for Telekom Srbija as it transforms from a traditional incumbent into a regional player. The transaction was complex, requiring merger clearances from authorities in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, and was executed in tandem with another significant deal: United Group's sale of SBB to e& PPF Telecom. The deal was seen as a coming-of-age moment for the regional legal market, as Gecic Law, a Belgrade-based firm, served as lead legal advisor. The acquisition is also expected to impact the broader telecommunications landscape in the Balkans by encouraging competition and innovation.
Sectors
- Telecommunications
- Legal Services
- Media and Entertainment
Geography
- Serbia – The article focuses on Telekom Srbija, a Serbian company, and its significant expansion within and beyond Serbia.
- Balkans – The target companies operate within the broader Balkans region, and the transaction required regulatory approvals across multiple Balkan countries.
Industry
- Telecommunications – The article revolves around Telekom Srbija's acquisition deal, which is a significant event in the telecommunications industry, especially in the Balkans.
- Legal Services – The involvement of Gecic Law and Clifford Chance highlights the crucial role of legal services in handling complex cross-border M&A transactions.
- Media and Entertainment – The acquisition includes digital content platforms like NetTV Plus and broadcasting rights like Sport Klub, underscoring the media and entertainment sectors' relevance.
Financials
- EUR 1.5 billion – The combined enterprise value of Telekom Srbija's acquisition deal.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telekom Srbija | Bidder | Company | A major telecommunications provider in Serbia, expanding its presence in the Balkans region. |
| NetTV Plus | Target Company | Company | A streaming platform included in the acquisition by Telekom Srbija. |
| United Group | Seller | Company | Previously owned the assets being acquired by Telekom Srbija. |
| Gecic Law | Legal Advisor | Company | Served as the lead legal counsel for Telekom Srbija in the transaction. |
| Clifford Chance | International Co-Counsel | Company | Provided international legal support for the transaction alongside Gecic Law. |