Allegations were made last week against Vivacom, a Bulgarian telecommunications company owned by United Group, by A1 Group and PPF Group. The Bulgarian Commission on Protection of Competition (CPC) had granted Vivacom permission to acquire Networks-Bulgaria and several other smaller Bulgarian telecoms, sparking concerns within the industry.
Vodafone UK is proclaiming the promise of 5G, with over 50% of UK adults agreeing that it could significantly impact their daily lives. But the telecom giant is also sparking conversation around its proposed merger with Three, a move believed to accelerate the UK’s digital future. The benefits of this merger extend to healthcare, utilities, and railways, showing strong potential to enhance these sectors through technologies enabled by 5G connectivity. However, this ambitious union faces challenges, including the controversial issue of spectrum distribution, crucial for 5G delivery. Yet, in the ever-evolving telecom landscape, it might be the willingness to navigate these challenges that determines their success.
Industry expert Jonny Parkinson illuminates the landscape of telecommunications mergers and acquisitions amidst economic shake-ups and global tensions. Despite a dip in deal-making activity, recent predictions suggest a strategic surge in the back half of 2023. Drawing upon the resilience of telecom firms in the face of change, Parkinson underscores the potential offered by technologies like AI and cloud computing to maintain competitiveness, even encouraging alternative structuring concepts and careful due diligence for prospective M&A targets.
European Commission’s concerns over the Orange-MasMovil merger in Spain may hinder the deal, potentially affecting competition within the country’s telecommunications market. Remedies, such as wholesale access to virtual players, could be proposed to address objections and prevent price increases for consumers.
Vodafone explores potential sale of its Spanish operations as the European Commission investigates Orange Spain and MasMovil merger, impacting competition in the telecom sector. The outcome could influence Vodafone’s decision, with potential investors such as Apollo Global Management and Apax Partners being considered.
EXA Infrastructure acquires Univerzalne Telekomunikacije, expanding its network routes and enhancing European connectivity, with focus on the underinvested Balkan region. Unitel’s reliable fiber network and strategic location complement EXA’s Trans Adriatic Express route, showcasing growth plans in pan-European and transatlantic connectivity.
Vodafone and CK Hutchison announce plans to merge their UK operations, highlighting potential benefits such as a top-class 5G network and better customer value. However, regulatory approval may pose a challenge and delay the process.
Telkom South Africa faces a potential takeover as a consortium, including Axian Telecom and the Government Employees Pension Fund, expresses interest amid challenging times. The company’s financial struggles and infrastructure issues set the stage for possible mergers, collaborations, and a dynamic telecommunications landscape.
The European Commission clears Inmarsat’s acquisition by Viasat, assuring competition in the in-flight broadband landscape. While the market anticipates increased opportunities for current players and new entrants, upcoming deals like SES/Intelsat and Eutelsat/OneWeb may pose complex challenges for regulators.
Viasat’s acquisition of Inmarsat advances as the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority grants unconditional approval, easing market competition concerns for in-flight Wi-Fi services amidst a rapidly evolving satellite communications sector.
