The timeline on the FCC's review of the application submitted by XM Satellite Radio Holdings and Sirius Satellite Radio ticked past the halfway point today. The FCC typically has a goal of completing action on transfer of control applications within 180 days of public notice, and today (9/7) marks day 91 of the review period. Routine application are usually decided upon by the FCC well within the 180-day mark, though more complex applications may take longer.

A decision could come within the next 30 to 60 days, according to RBC Capital Markets analyst David Bank, who also thinks there is a greater than 50% chance of a favorable ruling.

The DOJ starts its own a 30-day clock once parties have complied with a Second Request, which both Sirius and XM have said they have done.

Statements regarding the satcasters' request to transfer control of their FCC radio licenses to a new combined company continue to be offered from both supporters and detractors and can be found [here].