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Pearson purchase

Pearson's penchant for overspending prompted many to question the media and information company's purchase this month of Grundy Worldwide, the Aussie production company that makes Neighbours and a slew of soaps and game shows. Greg Dyke, chief executive of Pearson Television, led negotiations in the £175m buyout. Surprised competitors have pointed out that Grundy was flogged for half that amount last year.