Verizon Eyes Global Assets

Verizon continues to eye potential takeover targets to expand its enterprise business, although the company likely is done with major phone deals, Chief Executive Ivan Seidenberg said Thursday. The New York-based telecommunications giant has been aggressive with acquisitions, having wrapped up the $28 billion takeover of Alltel Corp. early this year. Verizon is among those likely interested in Qwest's long-haul network, and the company may scoop up a few smaller wireless carriers. Verizon's interest is focused primarily on building its enterprise business. The deals will look more like its purchase of security company Cybertrust rather than a traditional phone company. One deal unlikely to be made is Verizon's acquisition of the remaining 45% stake in Verizon Wireless owned by Vodafone GroupPLC. While it is a subject of constant queries, Seidenberg said there was no change or signals of interest by Vodafone. He stressed that the joint ownership hasn't impeded how business is conducted.