Luxembourg-based CLT-Ufa and the UK's United News and Media and Pearson have increased their stakes in UK broadcaster Channel 5, as financial investor Warburg Pincus sold out of the channel.

The three shareholders paid $277m (£172m) for Warburg's 18% stake in a move that is regarded as an endorsement of the loss-making channel. The sale values Channel 5 at $1.74bn (£1.09bn).

However United's move to increase its Channel 5 stake could have regulatory repercussions. The company's proposed merger with fellow UK broadcasting concern Carlton Communications has been referred to the Competition Commission after concerns were raised by the Office of Fair Trading.

Following the sale, CLT-Ufa and United now hold 35.37% of Channel 5 while Pearson holds 29.26%.