STC Group recently deployed Nokia’s AI-powered self-organizing network (SON) during the Hajj season, enhancing VoIP performance amidst a 40% traffic surge. Utilizing MantaRay SON, the collaboration optimized network settings every 15 minutes, resulting in a 30% improvement in loaded cell utilization and a 10% increase in user throughput, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in VoIP optimization.
Reports from Reuters suggest that Saudi Arabia’s STC group is contemplating a significant move in the European telecom market by considering the acquisition of United Group, a prominent player in both telecommunications and pay-TV sectors. Citing three anonymous sources familiar with the discussions, the potential takeover could mark a substantial shift in the industry landscape.
Vodafone Group, a British multinational telecommunications company, and the Saudi Arabia-based telecommunications provider Saudi Telecom Company (STC) are continuing discussion over a 55% stake sale of Vodafone shares in its Egyptian business, despite the expiry of the initial offer deadline last week. The two parties agreed in separate statements on a “misalignment” on Vodafone’s side in preparation for a $2.4 billion transaction of its Egyptian stake. STC said that the non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to acquire the stake had ended without an agreement, but negotiations with Vodafone would continue. Furthermore, the British telecom company commented: “Vodafone now looks to STC and Telecom Egypt to find a suitable agreement to enable the transaction to close.” The MoU was announced in January of this year when STC offered $2.4 billion for the major part of a stake in Vodafone Egypt, which was expected to close at the end of…
A monumental step for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 appears on the horizon as the Public Investment Fund and stc group plan to merge TAWAL and Golden Lattice Investment Company (GLIC). This partnership, expected to have a value of $5.85 billion and annual revenues near $1.3 billion, could be a game-changer in the telecommunications infrastructure domain.
Discover how Telecommunications giant Altice, facing a whopping $60 billion debt, eyes its Portuguese operation Meo as a lifeline. Amid debt woes, other challenges surface, including a scandal involving co-founder Armando Pereira. International telecom players are also in motion, with the Saudi STC Group asserting its presence in Europe, and UAE-based e& planning to increase its stake in Vodafone.
MATRIXX Software, Celfocus, and Qeema have launched Jawwy 2.0 to improve customer experience and reduce costs. NTT Ltd. plans to open its first data center campus in the Paris region as part of a $10 billion global expansion. Crexendo and TELCLOUD launched a POTS Replacement platform to offer cost-effective, reliable alternatives for critical services. Hero Digital revamped Calix.com, enhancing user experience and performance. Consumer advocacy groups urge the FCC for stricter regulations to protect against SIM swap and port-out scams.
The Online Safety Bill emerges as a tool for platform owners to tackle illicit content. Yet, penalties attached to non-compliance may be a hefty burden. The proposed “spy clause” infamously mandates the scanning of private user content, leading to vocal debates around privacy and the technology needed to enforce this clause. Amidst strong sentiments about potential surveillance, the UK government remains unwavering, resulting in possible market exits by platforms such as WhatsApp. With the telecom industry on the brink of substantial readjustments, the importance of staying informed is evident.
In a significant move aimed at reducing its hefty debt, Altice has decided to offload its French media operations to the maritime giant CMA CGM for €1.55 billion. The deal, structured as a cash transaction, sees CMA CGM acquiring an 80% share, while the remaining 20% goes to Merit France, a holding company related to the shipping group. This strategic sale encompasses Altice Media, the parent company of the well-regarded news channel BFM and RMC, a radio broadcaster.
Altice Group strategically eyes shedding its 50.1% sharing in XpFibre, triggering a ripple of interest from major players like KKR & Co., Macquarie Group, and others. While KKR & Co, Macquarie Group, and CDPQ are all reported to be keen on acquiring the stake, no financial bids have surfaced to date. Meanwhile, Altice Group’s decision to divest isn’t surprising, given its $60 billion debt, and recent considerations to sell other assets.
The fate of Altice Portugal, a leading player in Portugal’s telecom industry, is trending thanks to its substantial market stronghold. Now on the sales block, its potential buyers include Saudi Telecom Company amongst others. Its divestment strategy is part of a broader aim to alleviate the significant debt of Altice Group. However, recent scandals encircling Altice’s co-founder have added layers of complexity to the unfolding story.
