The combination of the country’s fourth operator (Nowo) and a new entrant (Digi) may be an opportunity to intensify competition facing the ‘big three’ providers
Portugal: Vodafone/Nowo merger blocked
Despite being inline with the preliminary view, there is still a chance the AdC’s decision could be appealed directly to the Minister of Economy, although this mechanism has only been invoked (successfully) once before
Duct and pole access pricing in Germany
For the first time, BNetzA’s wholesale charge controls for PIA will take into account Deutsche Telekom’s investment in the rollout of full fibre
ANACOM takes on automated data charges
The regulator’s draft decision follows on a consistent record of consumer protection efforts related to price rises and social tariffs
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
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
Remedying competition concerns in European mergers
As rumours circulate about possible acquisitions, we discuss progress made – and consider the potential commitments – in three live competition reviews
Wholesale broadband regulation roundup
The latest market reviews in France, Ireland and Portugal seek to clear the way for faster fibre rollouts while preserving competitive markets
Portugal: ANACOM urges operators against price rises
The regulator has laid out guidance for operators in an attempt to mitigate the need for further intervention
National roaming in Belgium: Dialling up the competition
Spectrum auction rules will facilitate the entry of a new fourth operator, which is intent on disrupting the sector
