The annual event in Brussels saw operators continue to push for in-market consolidation. Less was said of ‘fair share’ but Europe’s (lack of) leadership came under the microscope
EC: Plan for a ‘Digital Networks Act’
The legislation will aim to attract investment and support consolidation, but seems to be a conciliatory prize for not progressing ‘fair share’ further during the current mandate
DMA: Designating further gatekeepers
As the EC considers making additional designations, Apple is pushing back against interoperability rules for its iMessage service despite the potential consumer benefits
EU: A ‘Telecoms Act’ expected within the year
A new piece of legislation is promised to boost the sector’s fortunes and finally create a true single market for telecoms
DMA: The first batch of gatekeepers
Dominant firms now have six months to ensure full compliance, while the EC investigates whether further services should be subject to ex-ante rules
Austria: Deregulating wholesale high-quality access
The TKK continues its gradual removal of obligations for Ethernet and dark fibre, following complete deregulation in the consumer broadband market
WACC: Adjustments in Spain to reflect recent macroeconomic conditions
CNMC adjusts the risk-free rate for Telefónica and Cellnex, but signals a return to the EC’s approved methodology
EU Data Act: Agreement reached
New provisions should help mitigate stakeholder concerns, although creating value from Europe’s data will only follow a lengthy implementation process
Priorities for Spain’s presidency of the Council of the EU
AI Act negotiations will be an immediate focus, while the Data Act and Gigabit Infrastructure Act will also demand attention and progress over the coming months
Orange/MasMovil: EC outlines concerns
The regulator’s provisional position will be uncomfortable reading for those that see the proposed JV as a test case for future in-market consolidation in Europe
