The EC is considering rolling back regulation on the sector, particularly ex-ante rules that often apply to former incumbent operators. We consider whether this deregulatory push is part of a wider global trend.
Deregulating telecoms
Three/Vodafone: A pathway to approval
Despite identifying competition concerns, the CMA has outlined a set of remedies that could lead to approval of the merger. In doing so it would transform the UK’s mobile market while helping to deliver government ambitions for connectivity and economic growth.
Statement of Strategic Priorities for Ofcom: Fixed Telecoms
The UK fixed telecoms sector has developed positively since the last SSP in 2019, with expanded full fibre coverage, significant network investment and various interventions to protect consumers. Here we share views on what the Government should consider including in the new SSP.
The importance of MVNOs for competition
With a growing market share, and some of the lowest prices and best customer service, MVNOs play a vital role in the market as an important competitive constraint and in keeping MNOs honest.
Is it time to regulate SMS termination?
Despite previously finding there was no case to answer for, in the UK, Ofcom is considering whether it should change its approach. Looking elsewhere suggests that imposing regulation in this market may not be in the long-term interests of end users.
The challenge of retiring the copper network
The transition to full-fibre means that copper retirement is now well underway. So far it has rarely been a straightforward or quick process given the strong regulatory oversight and need to protect those consumers who still rely on the copper network
Italy’s network spin-off faces regulatory hurdles
After many yeas, Telecom finally announced the start of the legal separation of its copper and fibre network, which could also be the first step towards a merger with wholesale-only operator Open Fiber. But the separation will not be as strong as that of Openreach from BT in the UK
Fewer markets now susceptible to ex-ante regulation in Europe
There are now just two markets susceptible to ex-ante regulation across the EU – fixed wholesale local access, and wholesale dedicated capacity (i.e. leased lines). While voice interconnection markets are gone from the list, this does not mean complete deregulation
A look at Ofcom’s wholesale broadband proposals
Ofcom has published a draft of the UK’s Wholesale Fixed Telecoms Market Review for the period 2021–2026. The review takes into account the faster pace at which full fibre deployment has happened over the last two years, and the role played by alternative operators. The concern for some infrastructure builders is the time it will take to get the enabling regulatory environment in place if they are to meet the Government’s ambitious connectivity target.
Ofcom changes approach to regulating fixed telecoms markets
On 29 March 2019, the UK regulator Ofcom set out its initial approach for the next Fixed Telecoms Market Review, which will cover the years 2021–25; for the first time, a market analysis will have a time frame longer than three-years. Ofcom’s main objective is to ensure competition continues to develop, while at the same time supporting the recent surge in fibre investment.
