Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) Icahn says considering hostile takeover

Earlier this shares in video streaming services provider Netflix rose on hopes that the company would be a target for acquisition. Names like that of Amazon and Microsoft have cropped up as prospective buyers.

Investor Carl Icahn, who recently picked up a 10 percent stake in the company, added fuel to the fire saying that he was considering a hostile takeover of the company.

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He however added the rider that h was uncertain if he stood any chance of acquiring it.

In an interview to television network CNBC, Icahn said, (in response to a question about a hostile purchase of Netflix), "The thought had certainly entered my mind. I have to admit I think about it, but we haven't made that decision."

Icahn was quick to add that his valuation of Netflix for an acquisition would be much lower than a buyer who would be looking to buy the company to add synergies and acquiring its vast library of content.

Last month, in a regulatory filing activist investor Icahn had revealed that he had acquired 9.8 percent stake in Netflix.

Most of his purchases were in the form of call options that expire in September 2014. The billionaire, who is known for shaking up corporate management, has said Netflix was undervalued and an attractive acquisition target for a number of companies, a Reuters report said.

Netflix, as a defensive measure, has adopted a poison pill strategy to prevent a hostile takeover by an outsider who lacks board approval.