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
The problem of dormant contracts in the Netherlands
Expired minimum terms, a tendency not to switch and inadequate communication from operators mean telecoms consumers are missing out on significant savings
Netherlands: Wholesale local access market left unregulated
The ACM will be monitoring KPN and Glaspoort’s network access commitments, which may have helped save VodafoneZiggo from new regulation
Dutch 5G auction raises €1.23bn
Dutch regulator to be given more powers over fixed telecoms regulation
An amendment to the Telecommunications Act will allow the ACM to impose access obligations when there is a barrier to replicability.
Dutch court overturns joint dominance in wholesale broadband
The court annulled the ACM’s analysis of Markets 3a and 3b, which means KPN and Vodafone Ziggo are now exempt from access obligations.
