Altice is exploring options to exit its stake in SFR amid ongoing debt restructuring, with potential valuations of €30 billion. Leading telecom players like Bouygues Telecom, Iliad, and Orange are expressing interest, alongside Middle Eastern operators and private equity firms.
BT is nearing a deal to sell its stake in TNT Sports to Warner Bros Discovery, marking a strategic shift away from noncore markets. As financial pressures mount, the move aligns with CEO Allison Kirkby’s focus on UK operations and deeper cost-cutting, including plans to reduce spending.
Spanish tower operator Cellnex is eyeing the sale of its majority stake in Swiss operations, potentially valuing up to €2 billion. This move is part of a strategic shift towards consolidating its core European markets for increased focus and efficiency.
The Indian government’s strategic move to convert Vodafone Idea’s debt into equity has dramatically increased its stake to 49%. This comes as a lifeline for the telco, offering significant relief in its enormous debt woes. Despite this, Vodafone Idea faces tough competition from leaders Jio and Airtel, particularly in the 5G arena.
Telus, a leading telecom operator, is considering selling a minority stake in its wireless tower portfolio, aiming to strengthen its financial position. The potential divestment of up to 49.9% of its 3,000 towers could raise over CAD 1 billion, fueling debt reduction and aligning with broader industry trends of leveraging asset sales for growth.
Vivendi has reduced its stake in Telecom Italia (TIM) from 23.8% to 18.4%, with plans for a full exit. Tensions arose over TIM’s €22 billion network sale to KKR, which Vivendi legally contested.
Indian billionaire Sunil Mittal sold a 0.84% stake in Bharti Airtel for $976 million, with 25% going to Bharti Telecom to strengthen its control. The rest was acquired by major investors like GQG Partners and Fidelity.
Japan’s SoftBank and OpenAI are negotiating a major deal that could position SoftBank as the largest shareholder of the ChatGPT creator, surpassing Microsoft’s current stake. With a potential $15-25 billion investment, SoftBank aims to strengthen its foothold in the AI market.
Saudi Telecom Group’s strategic move to secure nearly 10% in Telefónica highlights an ambitious international expansion within the telecommunications sector. This acquisition, approved by the Spanish government, enhances STC’s influence as Telefónica’s second-largest shareholder.
Vodafone has sold its remaining 3% stake in Indus Towers for $330 million, marking its exit from the company. Proceeds were used to settle loans and increase Vodafone Idea’s ownership to 24.39%.
