Ericsson Refutes Rumors of Potential Acquisition by Cisco

Ericsson hasn't discussed the possibility of merging with or being acquired by Cisco, Ericsson said in a news release Monday. It said it's aware of rumors suggesting Cisco is interested in acquiring the company, which emerged after they announced a collaborative partnership that included licensing agreements for their patent portfolios (see 1511090044). "The talks leading up to the partnership have been ongoing for a year and there have not been any discussions whatsoever on a merger or an acquisition," Ericsson CEO Hans Vestberg said in a statement.