Gabelli Asset Management Comments on DISH Network Corp

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May 13, 2014

DISH Network Corp. (1.2%) (DISH)(DISH - $62.21 - NASDAQ) is the third largest pay television provider in the U.S., with approximately 14 million subscribers. As a satellite operator unburdened by local franchising requirements and wired plants, DISH can market and deliver video extremely efficiently across the entire country. As founder of the company, Charlie Ergen owns approximately 53% of the company's shares and lends his strategic vision to its benefit. DISH has accumulated a significant spectrum position at attractive prices and unsuccessfully attempted to enter the mobility market via the acquisition of Sprint. Among the many options available to DISH from here are: acquisition or partnership with another wireless operator, merger with DIRECTV (2.4%), or sale to a larger entity such as AT&T Inc.

From Mario Gabelli (Trades, Portfolio)'s Value 25 Fund first quarter 2014 shareholder commentary.