* FAIRFAX MEDIA CEO GREG HYWOOD:
The company is entering the next phase in its more than century-long development. Our businesses and our journalism are well positioned to continue to be the most compelling voices for the years ahead.
* FAIRFAX MEDIA CHAIRMAN NICK FALLOON:
This board, in considering this merger, considered the value to shareholders, and the social value, of continuing strong independent journalism into the future.
* NINE CHIEF EXECUTIVE HUGH MARKS:
This is great news and a sign of confidence in the opportunities this merger presents.
* MEDIA, ENTERTAINMENT AND ARTS ALLIANCE:
Two large companies will be one, but this is a partnership that jeopardises not only media diversity, but threatens the scale of public interest journalism, especially in our regions.
* FEDERAL OPPOSITION LEADER BILL SHORTEN:
I am concerned that, when you create a greater concentration of media power, diversity will be the casualty.
* PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON:
I always have a live and let live view on the Australian economy. And this is what people have decided to do with the companies that they own.
