A group of major European telecoms, including Vodafone and Orange, urges urgent EU, UK, and NATO action to protect subsea cables amid rising hybrid threats. Citing recent incidents and geopolitical tensions, the coalition supports enhanced cross-border collaboration and the EU’s Cable Security Action Plan to safeguard Europe’s connectivity.
Lightpath, a prominent all-fiber connectivity provider, has announced its agreement to acquire most of United Fiber and Data’s (UFD) assets. This acquisition, pending regulatory approval, is anticipated to be finalized in the third quarter of 2024.
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.
United Group’s series of acquisitions in Bulgarian telecommunications raises intrigue, drawing attention especially from vigilant industry veterans like A1 Group and PPF Group. The tacit consent of the Bulgarian Commission on Protection of Competition allowing Vivacom to absorb Networks-Bulgaria and six other telecom firms, potentially empowers Vivacom with unprecedented control over TV distribution and the ISP market.
United Group collaborates with Parallel Wireless to trial Open Radio Access Network technology on Bulgaria’s Vivacom network, promoting innovation, flexibility, and vendor diversity for improved services.
Sparkle has launched a new Point of Presence in San Diego, expanding its U.S. network and enhancing connectivity across the Americas. Integrated with its global Seabone backbone, the new site offers high-speed IP services, robust security features, and diverse routes for improved reliability.
Oracle has unveiled a $30 billion annual deal with OpenAI, fueling a major expansion in global data centers. With soaring demand and massive investment, Oracle expects rapid growth in cloud infrastructure, aiming to become a global leader in cloud services.
Rakuten Symphony and AT&T have strengthened their collaboration to boost Open RAN technology adoption in the US. By implementing Rakuten’s site management platform, AT&T aims to modernize its network infrastructure, streamlining mobile and fiber operations.
Singapore’s state-owned firm Temasek is collaborating with Microsoft, BlackRock, and MGX to revolutionize global AI infrastructure, targeting a $100 billion investment. This ambitious AI Infrastructure Partnership includes enhancing AI data centers, showcasing AI’s transformative potential on industries globally, and aligning efforts with major global entities for rapid advancement.
Microsoft will invest $400 million to upgrade its Swiss data centers and train 1 million people in AI. The plan supports local startups and SMEs, enhances innovation infrastructure, and reinforces Microsoft’s long-term presence in Switzerland.
