In a strategic move aimed at bolstering Norway’s space capabilities, Telenor Norway has successfully concluded the sale of its satellite business to Space Norway for a staggering NOK 2.36 billion ($228 million). The transaction, which received approval from the Norwegian Parliament just before Christmas, marks a significant shift in ownership of Telenor Satellite, a leading European provider of satellite TV broadcast and VSAT data communications services for maritime and land-based sectors.
Brookfield Asset Management’s proposed $2.5 billion acquisition of American Tower Corporation’s Indian operations could redefine the country’s telecom landscape. This strategic move, merging around 75,000 of ATC’s sites with Brookfield’s digital infrastructure, would create the world’s second-largest independent tower company. However, government approval remains a necessary stepping stone.
Navigating the shift from traditional to cloud-based communication systems amidst a growing hybrid work culture, HCS steps up to provide sustainable solutions. With a new division dedicated to this transition, the telecom giant anticipates significant returns and business expansion.
In a strategic move, Intel has partnered with private equity firm DigitalBridge to introduce Articul8, a new company set to bring enterprise-grade generative AI technology to the market. Articul8 aims to provide corporate customers with a secure and vertically-optimized genAI software platform, designed to run seamlessly on Intel hardware, including Xeon processors and Gaudi AI accelerators.
In a strategic move to gain a foothold in India’s expanding telecommunications market, Elon Musk’s satellite communications constellation, Starlink, is reportedly considering a stake in Vodafone Idea (Vi). As of 2024, Starlink boasts a constellation of over 5,500 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, providing commercial services in more than 60 countries to approximately 1.5 million subscribers.
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.
In a significant move aimed at creating a formidable force in the telecommunications industry, Dish Network and EchoStar have officially concluded their merger. The strategic integration combines Dish Network’s satellite, streaming, and mobile operations with EchoStar’s robust satellite business, realizing the vision of establishing a ‘global leader’ in both terrestrial and non-terrestrial wireless connectivity.
In a significant development, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has released updated guidelines for the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The revised framework, known as Uniform Guidance, outlines rules and requirements for federal financial assistance awards and subawards, aiming to enhance the efficiency of the grant management process.
Navigating the challenging mandates of the dynamic telecommunications world, UK’s premier telecom operator, BT, stumbles upon an obstacle. The company has failed to adhere to the deadline for the complete removal of Huawei equipment from its core network. The deadline, already deferred twice, raises doubts over the telecom titan’s ability to successfully transition away from Huawei’s infrastructure within the stipulated timeframe. A UK law dictates all network carriers to rid their systems of Huawei equipment by the end of 2027.
House Republicans are seeking clarity from the NTIA on its stance on Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program initial proposals, pertaining to potential rate regulations. They argue such regulations may contravene the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) directives. Amid rising concerns, Louisiana becomes the first state to have its BEAD program approved.
