Idea, Vodafone to merge to form India’s largest telecom firm

Idea Cellular’s board has approved merger with Vodafone India to create country’s largest telecom company both in terms of revenues and subscribers. While Vodafone will hold a 45.1% stake in combined company, Idea will hold a 26% stake and remaining stake will be held by public. The merger reportedly values Vodafone India at $12.4 billion and Idea at $10.8 billion.