So Where's That XM-Sirius Merger?

Strong subscriber growth in the fourth quarter may temper losses for Sirius (SIRI Quote) and XM Satellite Radio (XMSR Quote), but the delayed merger between the two and woes in the auto sector could dampen the 2008 outlook for the satellite radio providers.

Analysts currently expect Sirius, which is set to report fourth-quarter results on Tuesday, to post a loss of 13 cents a share, according to a Thomson First Call survey. XM should lose 64 cents a share, if Wall Street is correct, when it reports on Thursday.

While earnings will take center stage this week, many are still awaiting a resolution to the long, drawn-out merger between XM and Sirius, one that has driven negative sentiment and remains a key risk going forward as unsubstantiated rumors of approval from the Federal Communications Commission and Department of Justice continue to swirl. ...