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Communications Markets
James Robinson, Senior Analyst
BT, TalkTalk, and a Supplier of Last Resort

BT’s rescue of TalkTalk from administration has not been without controversy. As the Government weighs up the pros and cons of the deal, it has (rightly) provided its strongest signal yet that it is open to exploring a safety net in the event of future operator failures.

BT, TalkTalk, and a Supplier of Last Resort

BT

BT, TalkTalk, and a Supplier of Last Resort

BT, TalkTalk, and a Supplier of Last Resort

BT’s rescue of TalkTalk from administration has not been without controversy. As the Government weighs up the pros and cons of the deal, it has (rightly) provided its strongest signal yet that it is open to exploring a safety net in the event of future operator failures.

Consolidating the altnets: The main act

Consolidating the altnets: The main act

The fragmented nature of the UK’s fibre market is a barrier to effective network competition becoming established for the long term. With consolidation now necessary, we review the likely approach the CMA would take to three rumoured transactions.

Consolidating the altnets: Setting the scene

Consolidating the altnets: Setting the scene

The proliferation of altnets changed the fibre landscape in the UK, compelling the incumbent into action. Consolidation of networks, brands and customers is now on the horizon, which could ultimately lead to a more sustainable and competitive market structure.

Ownership structures in European telecoms

Ownership structures in European telecoms

A trend in cross-border investment in the telecoms sector continues to play out, with operators, financial institutions and governments all contributing to developments. We explore the motivations behind recent deals and the factors that will influence whether further transactions are on the horizon.

Ofcom’s Telecoms Access Review: Staying the course

Ofcom’s Telecoms Access Review: Staying the course

With fibre investment and coverage since the last review surpassing expectations, Ofcom is now keen to effect the second half of a 10-year framework, keeping Openreach honest while enabling scaled fibre network competition to materialise and ultimately be sustainable in the long-run.

Subsea cables: Mapping the ocean floor

Subsea cables: Mapping the ocean floor

The subsea cable sector has undergone a significant transformation with growing investments from big tech firms. In the first of a series of reports, we detail the changes in cable ownership and manufacturing and consider concerns with cable resilience in this context.

Three/Vodafone: A pathway to approval

Three/Vodafone: A pathway to approval

Despite identifying competition concerns, the CMA has outlined a set of remedies that could lead to approval of the merger. In doing so it would transform the UK’s mobile market while helping to deliver government ambitions for connectivity and economic growth.

Foreign equity stakes in telecoms

A wave of cross-border investment has seen some operators – directly or indirectly – acquiring shares in their peers. We outline a number of recent developments in the market and in legislation, and consider what's next for foreign investment regulation

UK: Support with the cost of living

The telecoms industry has been criticised for raising prices and not doing enough for those in financial hardship. Beyond providing social tariffs, we've identified £300m of initiatives operators have put in place at their own cost to help ease the pain

Evolving the concept of universal service

As policymakers consider the future funding of the USO, some are exploring potential contributions from large CAPs. This may be one solution to address broadband affordability challenges while ensuring a wider pool of contributors to network investment