Competition Watch

Yipes Communications acquired the rights to provide broadband services to more than 3500 office buildings across the U.S. from BroadBand Office, an in-building carrier currently in a Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding. Yipes also has signed access agreements with nine real estate companies that control more than half of BroadBand Office's portfolio.

Broadband data network provider Allied Riser Communications announced last week it will reduce its work force by 75% — about 290 employees — and will suspend retail sales of broadband data applications and services. The company plans to focus on wholesale fiber contracts with national service providers and leasing its in-building facilities to wireless service providers.

The common stock for Covad Communications began trading on the OTC Bulletin Board July 20 after Covad was delisted by Nasdaq. The decision was based on Covad's failure to satisfy the exchange's $4 million net tangible assets and minimum bid price requirements.