Potential mergers and acquisitions take up a lot of time and resources on both sides -- gathering information, legal fees, meetings, etc. Plus, due diligence is

Potential mergers and acquisitions take up a lot of time and resources on both sides -- gathering information, legal fees, meetings, etc. Plus, due diligence is a huge distraction from the normal course of business. The breakup fee protects T-Mobile in case the deal falls through. Smart move.