March 22, 2000

Is AT&T <% if gsSubBrand = "aolsnapshot" then Response.Write("(NYSE: T)") else Response.Write("(NYSE: T)") end if %> the right connection? Is it the wrong number? This week we take a closer look at the mother of all bells. We're joining a pair of Dixie cups by a string, and letting two Fools reach out and Duel someone.

Jeff Fischer (TMF Jeff) is our bull. Bill Mann (TMF Otter) is our bear. Don't worry, we have enabled three-way calling so your voice can be heard, too.

When you're done with the Duel, chime in with your vote. Then, why not join us as we take another look at VISX <% if gsSubBrand = "aolsnapshot" then Response.Write("(Nasdaq: VISX)") else Response.Write("(Nasdaq: VISX)") end if %> in our Duel Flashback.

The Bull Argument... The giant has stirred. Thanks to surprisingly quick action in acquiring cable companies and wireless leaders, this giant is now positioned to capitalize on strong growth in young, dynamic divisions over the next decade and longer. Continue »

The Bear Argument... AT&T's historical business model, voice long distance telephony, is doomed. Doomed because the differential-per-minute charges have dropped by more than 70% domestically in the last five years; almost every bit that is left is owed to the local exchange carrier in regulatory mandated passthroughs. Continue »

The Bull Argument »

 This Week's Duel