In what now appears to be a creeping takeover of Aegis Group, French financier and Havas Chairman Vincent Bollore Wednesday disclosed that he has increased his ownership of the U.K.-based media
services and marketing research company to 19.15 percent. The move follows Publicis Groupe's withdrawal as an active suitor for Aegis. WPP Group, which has been reviewing Aegis financial books in
anticipation of an acquisition offer, Tuesday disclosed it has purchased a small amount of Aegis stock, but the 12,650 shares represent a miniscule amount of Aegis' equity. --Joe Mandese
