Bankers on edge over bonuses in Sky duel to the death

THE City’s top bankers were on Friday nervously hanging on the outcome of the auction for Game of Thrones broadcaster Sky — an event that will define bonuses for many.

The 20-month takeover tussle for the broadcaster, starting tonight at 5pm, will be settled by teatime tomorrow.

Comcast, the US cable giant, is bidding against 21st Century Fox and Disney.

Comcast’s £14.75 a share offer, worth £26 billion, tops the £14 deal from Disney.

Bob Iger, the Disney chief, could go beyond £15 say analysts, to secure what he has says is the “jewel in the crown” of his deal to acquire Fox.

Comcast is being advised by Robey Warshaw and Bank of America, among others.

Fox advisers include Goldman Sachs and Deutsche and Sky’s include Morgan Stanley and Barclays.

The winning team rockets up investment banking tables, boosting bonuses.