FRANKFURT (Standard&Poor's) Jan. 29, 2007--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today that the ratings and outlook on Austrian telecommunications operator Telekom Austria AG (TA; BBB+/Positive/A-2) were unchanged by reports quoting the CEO of the group, Boris Nemsic, to be interested in a stake in Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A. (OTE; BBB+/Negative/A-2). Although an acquisition by Telekom Austria of a major stake in OTE could have negative bearing on Telekom Austria's financial measures, with uncertain and likely limited control on the Greek incumbent's business and financial strategy, we believe that there are many uncertainties regarding the possible execution, timing, or financing of the acquisition. At this stage, TA's solid operating performance and a strong financial profile still remain important supportive
