While the EC’s digital infrastructure white paper took centre stage, speakers also highlighted the increasing criticality of ensuring network security and resilience
UK: CMA set for Phase II review of Three/Vodafone merger
Despite competition concerns at the both the retail and wholesale levels, there’s still the possibility commitments could be agreed that get the deal the green light
EC: Adoption of revised market definition notice for competition cases
Updating the 27-year-old guidance should better equip the EC to assess competitive dynamics in the digital economy
Event debrief: ECTA’s manifesto for Europe
The event provided a good opportunity to hear from Europe’s access seekers and challengers on the recent connectivity white paper. Evolution not revolution was the overriding message
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
MWC24 (final) reflections
The event saw regulation and policy dominate keynote sessions and panels, with AI the biggest buzz on the showfloor
EC: Digital networks white paper
The EC’s attempt at a policy reset is full of promise, but it will be up to the next Commission to deliver it
Spain: Orange/MasMovil merger approved with remedies
While the EC may not have fully opened the door to further in-market consolidation, it is perhaps now ajar
UK: CMA Phase I review of Vodafone/Three
Following formal notification, a 40 working day assessment of the merits of the merger now begins before deciding whether a longer (up to 32-week) investigation is required
WEF 2024: Dominated by AI
AI took centre stage at Davos, although European operators continued to ask the EC to reconsider competition policies
