WPP is considering a bid for Aegis Group, in collaboration with a private investment firm that sources say is San Francisco-based Hellman & Friedman, reports AdWeek (via MediaBuyerPlanner). The news came Friday, just as Publicis Groupe announced that it has decided to abstain from making a move for Aegis, though it may bid in the future. WPP's primary interest is in Synovate, the market research business of Aegis, said a statement on the WPP website.