Vivendi takes Mediaset stake up to 20% (2)

(ANSA) - Milan, December 14 - Vivendi said in statement Wednesday that it has taken its stake in Mediaset up to 20%. The French group said Tuesday that it had acquired 12.32% of the company.
    Silvio Berlusconi on Wednesday described as "hostile" Vivendi's acquisition of shares in Mediaset. He added that his family had raised its stake in the broadcaster. "We have no intention of letting someone try to downsize our business role," he said in a statement. "That's why we have increased our stake and will continue to do so within the limits allowed by the law". Also on Wednesday, Industry Minister Carlo Calenda said the government will "carefully monitor" the Mediaset-Vivendi situation, adding that what appears to be a hostile takeover is "not the most appropriate way to reinforce one's presence in Italy".