Vodafone reportedly wants a cool $50 billion for its 45% stake in Verizon Wireless. It's no secret that Verizon wants to wholly own Verizon Wireless, but its bid came in at just $38 billion. AT&T's buyout of BellSouth (and thus complete control of Cingular) has expedited pressure for Verizon to consolidate.
"We would not comment on rumors or speculation,” said Verizon spokesman Peter Thonis. However, he reiterated that Verizon was interested in buying Vodafone’s stake. “Absolutely we are interested and we continue to be interested, and the ball is in Vodafone’s court."
Verizon is the second largest wireless carrier in the US.