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Communications Markets

Competition issues in tower spin-offs and sales

The push to monetise infrastructure has reduced operators' vertical integration and fuelled the growth of towercos. Given their increased scale and importance, we consider the concerns of competition authorities and the potential impact of regulation.

PSTN switch-off: Public communications and preparedness

As countries prepare for the PSTN switch-off, tensions have risen over whether consumers are ready to make the migration to digital voice. We review the role governments have played in communicating about the switch-off and consider other challenges in readiness

Global standards in mobile network resilience

Following high profile network outages, regulators have reconsidered mobile network resilience in recent years. We review common resilience requirements made of MNOs and discuss the implications of emerging technologies for network resilience

Tackling digital exclusion in the UK: Priorities for a new national strategy

Digital inclusion remains an unfulfilled objective, with certain groups at particular risk of being left behind. With a general election expected this year, we review the areas the next Government should target in order to help close the digital divide

Unpacking broadband advertising rules

Broadband labelling and advertising rules bring greater transparency for consumers when comparing tariffs and choosing a service. We compare common elements of labelling schemes around the world and consider their relationship to competition in the market

Foreign equity stakes in telecoms

A wave of cross-border investment has seen some operators – directly or indirectly – acquiring shares in their peers. We outline a number of recent developments in the market and in legislation, and consider what's next for foreign investment regulation

Remedies in four-to-three mobile mergers

With renewed calls for in-market consolidation and pending transactions in two European countries, it is timely to revisit previous merger review decisions. We’ve analysed the commitments in four deals and considered the impacts they had on the market

The race to net zero: The role of policymakers

As operators work to limit their environmental impact, some regulators are actively supporting sustainability efforts, while others seem relatively less engaged. We outline tangible steps they could be taking to help reduce the industry’s carbon footprint

Broadband subsidies: Comparing what’s on offer

As competition in the rollout of high-speed broadband intensifies, there has been a renewed push to connect non-commercially viable areas. Public funding has been made available, but some governments are being more supportive than others

UK: Support with the cost of living

The telecoms industry has been criticised for raising prices and not doing enough for those in financial hardship. Beyond providing social tariffs, we've identified £300m of initiatives operators have put in place at their own cost to help ease the pain