Bharti Group says it is seeking support in the United Kingdom to increase its holding in BT Group without making a full takeover bid, according to reports. The company’s plan is aimed at gaining greater economic exposure to BT. Bharti currently holds a stake in BT and is considering raising it further. Coverage indicates that the increase could reach as much as 29.9% of BT’s shares, a level that would broaden Bharti’s influence while stopping short of acquiring the company outright.
The request for UK support reflects the regulatory and governance considerations that can apply when a foreign investor seeks to increase its stake in a major telecommunications firm. At the same time, Bharti’s position is that it does not intend to pursue a full takeover. The reporting emphasizes the distinction between increasing shareholding for economic exposure and initiating a bid that would aim to gain control of BT.
Overall, the outlets agree that Bharti’s approach centers on raising its BT stake with external support from UK authorities, while maintaining its stated decision not to launch a takeover.
