InterDigital Inc (IDCC)

[badgerkid]

Nicmar, Howard's release could easily be related to how he handled Nokia over the years. Merritt only stated that his release had nothing to do with the arbitration.

Merritt stated in the CC:

"Now, I can assure you that the management change had nothing to do with the Nokia arbitration. That process continues. As we reported earlier this week, we have received no decision from the panel nor any indication as to what the decision could be."

IMO, Merritt only acknowledged that Howard's release was not tied to an outcome from the arbitration because they didn't know what that was yet. Merritt may have only been trying to calm investors' fears that a negative result had occurred in arbitration. He at no point suggested that it was not somewhat tied to Nokia in general.

If there was any hope for a settlement, IMO, Howard had to be out of the way to reach a settlement. I'm not holding my breath either way because we will have a result very soon. But going forward, a change in management at Interdigital made sense.

A negotiated settlement that can be structured as a win-win is typically far better than a mandated award because it allows for easier future negotiations.

I'm still long shares and strong in my conviction that a good result is coming soon: a solid arbitration award, or an equally solid settlement that is beneficial to Interdigital's shareholders.

OAO