Comcast's deal with GE for NBC Universal could come this week

Comcast, the nation's largest cable company, and General Electric, the giant industrial conglomerate, are finalizing an agreement that would create a new media titan anchored by NBC Universal. The deal would instantly remake the entertainment industry landscape. Negotiations are "moving in the right direction" but are not complete, sources close to the deal tell DailyFinance. Sunday was the first day of Vivendi's annual window -- from Nov. 15 to Dec. 10 each year -- to exercise its option to sell its 20% stake in NBC Universal.

Teams of lawyers and bankers huddled over the weekend. An announcement isn't likely on Monday, but it could come by week's end, according to knowledgeable sources. However, it's clear that the bankers and lawyers will make the deal happen -- it's what they're paid to do -- and they're looking to do it soon.