I don't advocate any of this. But given the state of business today,
and the inclination to snatch up every available slice of the bandwidth
pie, it would not suprise me if something like this happens. I don't have
mastery
of all the technical details, or the marketing details, it just seems
rather possible and probable.

If there's a more effecient way to use the HF spectrum, a better way
to
make more money from it, or to save more money in using it, they'll do it.
Amateur radio and shortwave are of so little consequence to this planet.
Only the tiniest miniorty of kermudgeons and geeks (us) would miss it when
its gone.

If big business has even the vaguest idea of how to exploit HF, they'll
snatch it up. And in the US, the FCC will sell it to the highest bidder.

If broadcasters could make more money without a transmitter, they'll do it.

The only loyalty is to the bottom line.

I do a lot of media work for the Nat'l Assoc. of Homebuilders. Their
message to developers on land: if it's for sale, buy it. Buy and develop as
much land as your resources will allow. Even if you don't need it, even the
smallest parcel, buy it anyway. You can bet that the same goes for spectrum
developers.

Pete
KQ5I