The deal further solidifies the world of late-night television, which only a few months ago was roiled with the possibility of sweeping change.

The $541 million deal would solidify Cablevision as the dominant cable television company in the New York City area, with more than 2.5 million customers.

The deal to re-sign Cairo, first reported by The New York Post, should solidify the Yankees' infield for next season.

The deal solidifies Knight-Ridder's commitment to the newspaper business at a time when many rival publishing companies have been diversifying into broadcasting and other forms of communication.

The deal solidifies its position as the nation's largest apartment owner, with 317 complexes comprising 90,873 units - about double its nearest competitor, Security Capital Pacific Trust.

"They have a target of $1 billion in sales by 2001; this deal and the Carnrick deal should solidify that goal."

The deal solidifies Bertelsmann's position at the top of European broadcasting, increasing its stake in RTL to 67 percent from 37 percent.

Analysts said the deal would solidify Electronics Arts' position as one of the leading publishers of software for computer and video games.

The deal could solidify Gazprom's position in retail energy sales if large government companies lose market share as part of recent reforms.

Then the unfortunate happened - being disenfranchised by the politics and games of the music business and life in general, Brainstorm just quit altogether for "personal enlightenment", before any formal deal could solidify.