[SatNews] Yesterday the rumor mills were rampant regarding Harbinger Capital Partners LLC selling some, or all, of their interest in Inmarsat plc. Such was somewhat premature, given Harbinger's response to such reports at their website with...

Harbinger Capital Partners LLC ("Harbinger") notes the recent press speculation regarding a possible sale of part or all of its shareholding in Inmarsat plc ("Inmarsat"). Harbinger confirms that it is reviewing its options, but that no decision has yet been taken as to any transaction by Harbinger involving the share capital of Inmarsat. There can be no certainty that any transaction by Harbinger involving the share capital of Inmarsat will be forthcoming. A further announcement will be made in due course if appropriate.

Well, the other shoe has now dropped and, as reported by many financial news sites, including Market Watch and Bloomberg, Harbinger has sliced their interest in Inmarsat in half, selling 14.1 percent of their ordinary shares for a sum of US$649 million, or 410 million pounds. They have also put to rest current speculation they might be interested in a full acquisition of the company, as many thought they might, given their 2008 consideration in unison with then-satellite company SkyTerra Communications (now LightSquared) for a complete takeover. Harbinger continues to retain 14 percent of Inmarsat plc.