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
Competition and MVNOs in France
Bouygues Telecom’s takeover of La Poste Telecom reduces the size of the country’s MVNO market, but the regulator found no risk of harm to competition
M&A: Latest developments in Europe
While an in-market mobile merger in France appears likely, consolidation in Portugal’s fixed broadband market is facing strong opposition
Implementing vendor restrictions: Progress report
Western allies continue to push for Huawei restrictions abroad, even as operators struggle to comply at home
Compensation for Huawei ‘rip and replace’ in France?
Long-standing relationships have left some operators particularly exposed to the cost of vendor restrictions, with most governments so far disinclined to offer support
European Commission clears SFR’s acquisition of wholesale operator Covage in France
ARCEP completes second phase of 3.4–3.8GHz spectrum award
The auction raised €2.79bn for 15-year licences – a price in line with other European countries for the same spectrum.
Restrictions lifted on Altice in the Numericable–SFR merger
The French competition authority removes some restrictions but retains remedies relating to the ‘Faber’ co-investment project between SFR and Bouygues Telecom.
