Press reports today have suggested that EMAP is considering spinning off its radio interests into a separate business. This may pump up its market rating ahead of a relaxation of ownership rules and the subsequent consolidation in the radio industry.
Analysts at ABN Amro said they do not expect any such move by EMAP to be imminent and claim that it is only one of a number of ways in which the company could participate in UK radio consolidation. EMAP has said that it will not necessarily participate if the cost is too great and believes its current set-up is strong as it leverages off its magazine and radio brands, says the broker.
EMAP is reported as declining to comment on the speculation.