Comcast Ducks NBCU Questions on Earnings Conference Call B&C

Comcast Corp.'s top executives wouldn’t discuss any deal with G.E. for control of NBC Universal when asked about it on the company’s third-quarter earnings conference call with analysts, B&C reports.

CEO Brian Roberts did try to allay shareholder fears about the possible deal, however, saying, "While we can't comment on rumors, we only look for opportunities that can accelerate growth, make those businesses more profitable and give them the benefits of scale."

The company’s programming operations, which includes the E! Entertainment, Style and G4 cable networks, saw a 10% rise in revenue, to $383 million in the quarter. Those channels would move into the possible joint venture with G.E. as part of the deal to take a controlling stake in NBC Universal.

--Elizabeth Jensen