AT&T, DirecTV extend merger termination date, deal imminent

AT&T and DirecTV have extended the termination date for the companies' merger plans.

The telecom giant announced plans last May to acquire the satellite TV provider for $48.5 billion.

In a document filed Monday with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the companies agree "to further extend the 'Termination Date' of the Merger Agreement for a short period of time to facilitate obtaining final regulatory approval required to close the merger."

AT&T previously filed for an extension in May, as the companies originally expected to seal the deal within 12 months. In the document, AT&T also said that it "expects that the merger will be consummated shortly."