Abertis increases its stake in satellite operator Hispasat

Spain-based infrastructure group Abertis has increased its stake in satellite service provider Hispasat to 33.4%. The infrastructure firm has reportedly paid around €35 million for buying a 5% stake which was previously owned by EADS/CASA. It currently is the biggest stakeholder in the satellite operator following its acquisition of a 28.4% stake in July 2007. Abertis also owns 32% stake in Eutelsat Communications, another shareholder of Hispasat. The new acquisition awaits clearance from Spanish authorities.