European operators struck a notably more optimistic tone on regulation and consolidation in Q1 2026, with several executives welcoming the EC’s draft merger guidelines as a potential turning point for the sector
Event debrief: ISPA ISP Summit 2026
The proposed nexfibre/Netomnia transaction took centre stage, as panellists debated network overlaps, the deal’s potential impact on competition and whether it warrants an in-depth review
The conditions for copper retirement in the UK
Ofcom consults on removing Openreach’s copper charge controls where 90% of premises in an exchange area have access to fibre
Event debrief: INCA Better Fibre Live 2026
Industry came together to discuss the prospects for, and concerns surrounding, the UK’s altnet market, and the role of consolidation in shaping its future
UK: The impact of PIA on the leased lines market
New evidence from stakeholders has led Ofcom to identify stronger prospects for effective network competition than it had originally thought
Q3 2025 results: Regulatory and policy highlights
European operators used Q3 earnings to stress the need for regulatory reform and in-market consolidation. Regulators were urged to adopt pro-investment, pro-consolidation frameworks to boost competitiveness.
Event debrief: Capacity Europe 2025
With important reforms looming in Europe, the regulatory model in France was singled out as having successfully enabled fibre investment and competition
Event debrief: Connected Britain 2025
The event primarily remains a forum for debate on the future of the UK fibre market, as familiar sparks flew over potential altnet consolidation and the continued regulation of Openreach
The UK’s Statement of Strategic Priorities for telecoms and spectrum
Digital inclusion, resilience and adoption take greater prominence in the new SSP, while there are less than subtle hints for Ofcom’s expected regulation of Openreach
Event debrief: Westminster eForum: The future for broadband and mobile connectivity in the UK
Industry calls for greater intervention to facilitate 5G rollouts, but urges caution around changes to the existing regulatory framework for fibre
