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  • China’s Telecom and Pay-TV Revenue Set for Steady Growth, Fueled by 5G and IoT Innovations: 2030 Forecast

    China’s Telecom and Pay-TV Revenue Set for Steady Growth, Fueled by 5G and IoT Innovations: 2030 Forecast

    Revenues generated from telecommunications and pay-TV services in China are set to witness a moderate compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.3% from 2025 to 2030. This growth can be primarily attributed to innovative developments in mobile data and fixed broadband sectors.

    Telecommunications Revenue Forecast

    While the revenues from mobile voice services are expected to experience a downward trend during this period, mobile data service revenues are projected to rise. The declining trend in mobile voice services can be linked to mobile operators packaging voice minutes along with their 5G data plans, a shift in consumer preferences towards Over the Top (OTT) and internet-based communication applications, and a decrease in average revenue per user (ARPU) for voice services.

    On the other hand, the revenues from mobile data services are projected to increase at a CAGR of 4.2%, driven by a constant rise in 5G subscriptions and an ensuing boost in mobile data ARPUs. This growth in mobile data revenue is also expected to benefit from an increase in mobile internet usage and the widespread use of digital and video streaming services facilitated by premium mobile data offerings from mobile network operators (MNOs).

    Subscriptions to machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) services are anticipated to consistently grow between 2025 and 2030, driven by advancements in 5G network infrastructure, smart city projects, industrial automation, and the focus of telecom companies and the government on new M2M/IoT applications.

    Fixed Communication and Pay-TV Services

    In the fixed communication services sector, revenues from fixed voice services are likely to decrease due to a drop in circuit-switched subscriptions and lower fixed voice ARPU. Conversely, the revenues from fixed broadband services are anticipated to increase, fueled by a growing number of users adopting higher-ARPU fiber broadband services and enhancements in gigabit networks nationwide.

    While the growth in cable TV and IPTV segments is projected to be minimal, the total revenue from pay-TV services in China is expected to experience a slight decline due to falling ARPU levels as consumers increasingly turn towards OTT and on-demand streaming platforms.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the factors driving the growth of telecommunications revenues in China?
    The growth of telecommunications revenues in China is largely propelled by advancements in mobile data and fixed broadband sectors, alongside a steady rise in 5G subscriptions and mobile data ARPUs.

    How is the fixed communication services sector expected to perform between 2025 and 2030?
    While revenues from fixed voice services are forecasted to decrease, revenues from fixed broadband services are predicted to grow, driven by an increasing number of users adopting higher-ARPU fiber broadband services and nationwide gigabit network enhancements.

    What is the projected trend for the pay-TV services in China?
    The total revenue from pay-TV services in China is expected to experience a slight decline due to falling ARPU levels as consumers increasingly shift towards OTT and on-demand streaming platforms.

  • AI Revolution Fuels Unprecedented Growth in Data Center Infrastructure Market

    AI Revolution Fuels Unprecedented Growth in Data Center Infrastructure Market

    As the race to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) intensifies, businesses are investing not just in servers but also in electrical distribution, thermal management, liquid cooling, racks, and containment systems. These components form the pivotal infrastructure of AI-ready data centers, designed to handle power-intensive computing environments.

    This trend is reflected in the recent surge in the global data center physical infrastructure (DCPI) market, which hit a revenue of $12 billion during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 28% year-on-year growth. This follows five consecutive quarters of over 20% market growth, highlighting the continued investment in power and cooling infrastructures to meet the high demand for AI.

    AI Infrastructure: A New Race Begins

    The infrastructure required for AI differs significantly from previous cloud expansions. It demands significantly greater investments in power distribution, thermal management, cooling technologies, and facility engineering. Infrastructure spending per data hall is also increasing due to the need for higher rack densities, larger GPU clusters, and more electricity.

    Major tech companies including Microsoft, Google, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Oracle, and Meta have announced substantial investments in AI infrastructure in the past two years. These initiatives include AI-optimized data centers, extended cloud regions, and dedicated GPU infrastructure to meet the growing enterprise demand for AI applications.

    NVIDIA has popularized the concept of “AI factories”; large-scale computing environments optimized for AI training and inference, where components like computing, networking, storage, power, and cooling are integrated. This concept reflects the industry-wide shift towards facilities specifically constructed for AI workloads.

    AI model training and inference require densely packed GPU clusters operating at high utilization, placing unprecedented demands on electrical systems and cooling infrastructure. In light of this, operators are rethinking traditional data center architecture.

    Power Infrastructure Moves to the Center Stage

    Thermal management grew nearly 50% year over year in the first quarter of 2026. With AI deployments driving higher rack power densities, there is an increasing demand for advanced cooling technologies such as direct liquid cooling (DLC) to maintain performance and operational efficiency.

    As rack densities increase, conventional air cooling is becoming less practical for many high-performance AI deployments. Hence, hyperscale cloud providers are increasingly deploying liquid-cooling technologies for AI infrastructure.

    Access to power is becoming increasingly critical to where new AI facilities are constructed. Grid constraints, permitting timelines, and utility capacity are now key considerations for developers. This trend is driving greater investment in electrical infrastructure, including modular power systems, intelligent energy management platforms, and grid-resilient backup solutions.

    Reflecting evolving market requirements, heat rejection has emerged as a newly tracked segment within the DCPI market, contributing approximately $1 billion to its market measurement. This shift in data center design is leading operators to integrate thermal management into the overall facility architecture to improve efficiency, reliability, and long-term scalability.

    Questions & Answers

    What is driving the increased investment in AI infrastructure?

    Increased use of AI applications is driving the need for more robust and efficient data centers to support these power-intensive operations. This is leading to significant investments in components such as power distribution, thermal management, cooling technologies, and facility engineering.

    How are major tech companies responding to the demand for advanced AI infrastructure?

    Major tech companies, including Microsoft, Google, Amazon Web Services, Oracle, and Meta, have announced significant investments in AI-optimized data centers, extended cloud regions, and dedicated GPU infrastructure.

    How is the design of data centers evolving to meet the demands of AI?

    Operators are rethinking traditional data center architecture to accommodate densely packed GPU clusters that operate at high utilization. They are also increasingly integrating thermal management into the overall facility architecture, reflecting the growing importance of energy-efficient infrastructure.

  • Indonesian Telecom Boom: Mobile Data Revenue Fuels Market Surge Amid Decline in Voice Services

    Indonesian Telecom Boom: Mobile Data Revenue Fuels Market Surge Amid Decline in Voice Services

    The mobile services sector in Indonesia is anticipated to observe a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 3.4%, thus escalating from USD 10.2 billion in 2025 to USD 12.1 billion by 2030. This expansion is principally fueled by the escalating proceeds from mobile data services, offsetting the continuous decrease in mobile voice and messaging revenues.

    Shift in Mobile Services Revenue

    The forecast for mobile services in Indonesia suggests that the revenue from mobile voice services is slated to reduce during the predicted period. This reduction is ascribed to a gradual decrease in mobile voice ARPU as consumers increasingly opt for OTT communication platforms, whereas service providers are incorporating free voice minutes in their offerings. In contrast, mobile data service revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is stimulated by the increasing number of mobile internet subscriptions and the growing adoption of high-ARPU 5G services. The demand for data services is further boosted by cross-border travelers, business users, and high data consumption in urban areas, signifying a market shift towards data-centered monetization.

    The average monthly data usage over mobile networks is anticipated to escalate from 20 GB in 2025 to 30.3 GB in 2030. This rise can be attributed to the surge in consumption of online video and social media content on mobile networks, spurred by the expansion of 5G networks and enticing data-focused plans provided by mobile network operators.

    The Rise of 5G and Role of Telkomsel

    Even though 4G is expected to maintain its stronghold in mobile technology subscriptions in 2025, its share of total subscriptions is forecasted to reduce as users transition to faster, more reliable 5G services. There will be a considerable increase in the number of 5G subscriptions in Indonesia, credited to the wider availability of reasonably priced 5G-enabled smartphones and an increasing variety of premium data plans for high-bandwidth applications. The Indonesian government has set an aim to expand 5G network coverage to over 30% by the end of 2030.

    In 2025, Telkomsel is set to dominate the Indonesian mobile services market in terms of subscriptions and is predicted to uphold this supremacy throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to its comprehensive 4G coverage and aggressive expansion of its 5G infrastructure, with over 97% population coverage with 4G by March 2026 and more than 2,500 5G base stations across 56 cities by mid-2025.

    The future of Indonesia’s consumer mobile market will revolve around increased mobile data consumption, accelerated 5G migration, and rising demand for high-speed digital experiences. As users gravitate towards video streaming, social media, and data-intensive applications, operators will concentrate on expanding 4G/5G coverage and introducing segmented data plans to drive adoption and monetization.

    Questions & Answers

    What is driving the growth of the mobile services market in Indonesia?
    The growth is primarily being driven by escalating revenue from mobile data services, which offsets the ongoing decline in mobile voice and messaging revenues.

    What is the projected average monthly data usage over mobile networks by 2030?
    The average monthly data usage over mobile networks is anticipated to escalate from 20 GB in 2025 to 30.3 GB in 2030.

    Who is expected to lead the Indonesian mobile services market in 2025?
    Telkomsel is expected to dominate the Indonesian mobile services market in terms of subscriptions in 2025. It will likely maintain this position throughout the forecast period due to its comprehensive 4G coverage and aggressive expansion of 5G infrastructure.

  • Nokia Hitches a Ride on the AI Supercycle: Q2 Financial Triumph Fueled by Soaring Cloud Demand

    Nokia Hitches a Ride on the AI Supercycle: Q2 Financial Triumph Fueled by Soaring Cloud Demand

    Nokia, a leading global technology and communications company, has reported a marked improvement in its financial results for the second quarter of 2026. This financial uplift has been driven by robust demand for AI-related networking infrastructure and continued momentum across its primary network businesses.

    Stronger Financial Results and Network Performance

    Nokia’s Q2 earnings revealed net sales of EUR 4.8 billion, demonstrating a growth of 9% YoY on a constant currency basis, and a rise of 8% on a reported basis. The period’s comparable profit experienced a significant surge of 64% YoY to EUR 414 million, reflecting improved operational performance and a more favorable business landscape.

    The Network Infrastructure segment proved to be the company’s strongest-performing area, with net sales increasing by 12% YoY on a constant currency basis. The growth stems from a 20% hike in Optical Networks and a 16% rise in IP Networks. Sales to AI and cloud clients more than doubled, showing an impressive rise of 105% compared to the same period last year.

    The Mobile Infrastructure segment also turned in a solid performance. Net sales rose by 7% YoY, while maintaining a stable profit contribution, which was supported by an improved product mix.

    In the meantime, Nokia’s Portfolio Businesses recorded a 6% YoY growth on a constant currency basis. The company reclassified its Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) and Enterprise Campus Edge businesses as discontinued operations.

    Profitability and Restructuring Efforts

    Profitability also saw an improvement during the quarter. The comparable gross margin grew by 70 basis points to 46%, and the reported gross margin increased by 60 basis points to 44.6%. The comparable operating margin improved by 70 basis points YoY to 9%, indicating a stronger underlying performance. However, the reported operating margin declined to negative 1.0%, down 430 basis points from a year earlier, primarily due to an accelerated pace of restructuring activities.

    In line with Nokia’s objective of increasing agility and resource allocation toward growth opportunities, the company has accelerated certain restructuring actions. This means that Nokia now expects related charges of EUR 800 million in 2026.

    Questions & Answers

    What was Nokia’s net sales for the second quarter of 2026?
    Nokia’s net sales for the second quarter of 2026 were reported to be EUR 4.8 billion.

    What led to the increase in sales in the Network Infrastructure segment?
    The increase in sales was driven by a 20% increase in Optical Networks and a 16% rise in IP Networks. Sales to AI and cloud customers doubled, climbing 105% compared to the same period last year.

    What restructuring efforts is Nokia undertaking?
    Nokia has accelerated certain restructuring actions to increase agility and allocate more resources toward growth opportunities. The company expects related charges of EUR 800 million in 2026.

  • Telecom CapEx Stabilization: A New Era of Smarter, Not Bigger Networks

    Telecom CapEx Stabilization: A New Era of Smarter, Not Bigger Networks

    The telecommunications industry is entering a new era. Mobile data traffic is surging, artificial intelligence (AI) implementation is speeding up, and government digital transformation investments are heavy. However, the capital expenditure of telecom companies, known as CapEx, doesn’t seem to be aligning with these trends. Instead of continuously increasing, spending has begun to stabilize as companies shift their focus from network expansion to extracting more value from their existing infrastructure.

    According to industry analysts, the worldwide CapEx of telecom operators is projected to remain relatively unchanged throughout the second half of the decade. While this could be mistaken as a sign of reduced innovation, it instead indicates a strategic shift. Companies are now investing more in areas such as fiber, cloud-native architectures, AI, automation, and software-defined infrastructures. These investments promise better long-term returns and improved operational efficiency. Today, the industry is less about building larger networks and more about building smarter ones.

    Moving Beyond the 5G Buildout

    The period leading up to the stabilization of CapEx saw one of the highest infrastructure investment cycles in telecommunication history. Commercial 5G deployments that began in 2019 called for significant investments in areas such as spectrum licenses, Massive MIMO radios, cloud-native core networks, fiber backhaul, and urban networks. Today, this capital-intensive rollout has largely concluded in many developed markets.

    However, the demand for network services continues to rise. Mobile operators are projected to invest approximately USD 1.5 trillion through 2030, with the majority of this supporting 5G infrastructure. While the total investment is considerable, yearly spending is predicted to level off, in contrast to the rapid growth seen during the initial years of deployment.

    In the near future, global 5G subscriptions are projected to exceed six billion. The rise in mobile data traffic is expected to continue, driven by the growing popularity of AI applications, cloud computing, fixed wireless access, video streaming, and immersive digital services. This divergence between traffic growth and relatively stable CapEx illustrates the significant evolution of network technology. Modern mobile networks can handle much more data than previous generations without corresponding increases in physical infrastructure.

    The Rising Influence of AI

    One of the most significant shifts in telecom investment is the growing influence of AI. Operators are moving away from simply opening new radio sites, instead investing more in areas such as AI-ready optical transport, edge computing platforms, and intelligent network automation.

    AI is transforming network operations both internally and externally. Predictive maintenance, intelligent traffic management, AI-driven fault detection, and automated energy management are all made possible by AI, improving efficiency across large network footprints. AI also creates new revenue opportunities for operators through cloud connectivity, edge computing, managed AI infrastructure, and digital platform services.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the current trend in telecom CapEx?

    Telecom CapEx is stabilizing rather than continually increasing. Telecom operators are focusing on extracting greater value from their existing infrastructure.

    How is AI influencing telecom investment?

    AI is having a significant impact on telecom investment. Operators are investing more in AI-equipped areas, such as edge computing platforms, intelligent network automation and AI-ready optical transport.

    What is the future outlook for telecom growth?

    The next growth phase in telecom will be fueled by the integration of fiber, AI, cloud-native networks, automation, and shared infrastructure into smart digital platforms.

  • Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison Delivers Double-Digit Growth, Accelerating Its AI-Led Transformation

    Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison Delivers Double-Digit Growth, Accelerating Its AI-Led Transformation

    PT Indosat delivered strong financial and operational performance in the first half of 2026, demonstrating how its AI-led transformation is strengthening the business today while building the foundation for Indonesia’s next phase of digital growth.

    For the six months ended 30 June 2026, Indosat recorded revenue of IDR30.7 trillion, up 13.1% year-on-year (YoY). EBITDA increased 14% YoY to IDR14.6 trillion, growing faster than revenue and maintaining a healthy EBITDA margin of 47.6%. Normalized figure of net profit attributable to owners of the parent rose 49.2% YoY to IDR3.2 trillion, supported by sustained business growth, disciplined cost management, and increasing operational efficiency.

    AI is now becoming an integral part of customers’ everyday digital experience. Through services such as Anti-Spam and Anti-Scam feature, Sahabat-AI, Gemini AI, and Adobe Express, Indosat is delivering greater productivity, creativity, and digital security as part of its connectivity offering. These differentiated experiences helped drive a 19.9% YoY increase in data traffic and a 17.3% YoY increase in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) to IDR46 thousand, while maintaining a healthy mobile subscriber base of 93.4 million.

    Vikram Sinha, President Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, said, “Our AI North Star has always been about creating long-term value by transforming Indosat beyond connectivity into an AI-driven technology company. The double-digit growth we are achieving demonstrates the strength of this strategy and the momentum behind our transformation journey. This progress gives us the confidence to accelerate the next phase of our transformation, strengthening the capabilities that will become our future growth engines while helping build Indonesia’s AI ecosystem.”

    Investing Today’s Performance into Tomorrow’s Growth

    Strong operating performance has enabled Indosat to accelerate investments that will shape its next phase of growth. With a stronger financial foundation, Indosat is investing in the capabilities that will expand its technology business and unlock new long-term growth opportunities.

    A significant milestone during the first half was the establishment of PT Infra Fiber Teknologi (IFT) together with Arsari Group. Through the transfer of management of more than 86,000 kilometres of national fibre infrastructure, Indosat unlocked approximately IDR11.7 trillion in gross proceeds while adopting a more asset-light operating model. This transaction provides greater financial flexibility to accelerate investments in higher-growth opportunities that support Indosat’s long-term transformation.

    Building on this stronger capital position, Indosat continues to scale its AI Cloud business as enterprises accelerate AI adoption. During the first half of 2026, AI Cloud generated US$33 million in revenue, already surpassing its full-year 2025 revenue of US$28 million. This strong performance reflects accelerating enterprise demand for sovereign AI infrastructure and positions AI Cloud as one of Indosat’s key emerging growth engines.

    To support this growing AI ecosystem, Indosat also continues strengthening its connectivity. Indosat recently secured 80 MHz of spectrum across the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands, expanding network capacity and enhancing service quality as demand for AI-powered digital experiences continues to grow. Together with its continued focus on Customer Love, these investments will enable Indosat to deliver more reliable, intelligent, and personalized digital experiences, while unlocking new opportunities to monetize 5G services, including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).

    Building Sustainable Growth

    As Indosat expands its AI-powered growth platforms, the Company remains committed to ensuring innovation creates lasting value for society and the environment. AI-powered network optimization and intelligent energy management reduced carbon emissions intensity by 50.89%, while Indosat’s commitment to responsible business practices was recognized through its inclusion in all three KEHATI ESG Indices—SRI-KEHATI, ESG Sector Leaders, and ESG Quality 45—for the June–November 2026 period.

    Indosat is also investing in Indonesia’s AI future through its partnership with the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker RI) and the Wadhwani Foundation, with the ambition to develop one million digital talents and 100,000 AI-driven entrepreneurs by 2029. Together, these efforts reinforce the Company’s belief that long-term AI leadership must be built on responsible innovation, sustainable growth, and inclusive talent development.

  • Mysterious $1B Investment in True Telecom Sparks Investigation by Thailands Market Regulator

    Mysterious $1B Investment in True Telecom Sparks Investigation by Thailands Market Regulator

    The Thai market regulator has initiated an investigation after an individual surfaced with an estimated one billion US dollars in shareholdings in telecom titan True Corporation, thereby becoming one of its largest shareholders. The regulatory body intends to gather further details and seek explanations from relevant entities in compliance with the standard procedures, as per a recent announcement.

    Stake Increase and Company Backing

    The individual, identified as Supaporn, disclosed in a regulatory filing last week that she had amplified her stake in True, which is based in Bangkok, from 3.9% by purchasing shares through an international broker. Her investment equates to roughly 32 billion baht ($960 million), calculated based on True’s closing price on Monday.

    True Corporation enjoys the backing of Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group), one of the largest conglomerates in Thailand, and holds the position of the country’s second-largest mobile phone service provider. Earlier this year, Arise Digital Technology, under the control of True’s chairman Suphachai Chearavanont, bought approximately a 25% stake in True from Norway’s Telenor for 39 billion kroner (US$3.9 billion). Both CP Group and Telenor had studied the possibility of merging their telecom units in 2021.

    This deal also included an opportunity to buy an extra 5.4% stake within a two-year timeframe.

    Discrepancies and Legal Implications

    However, there seem to be some inconsistencies in the details provided by Supaporn in her regulatory filing, according to a statement issued by True. The firm stated that it has never offered preference shares to the public and currently does not have any outstanding preference shares. The company has reportedly informed the SEC about the inconsistency.

    The Thai regulator has issued a warning that stern legal measures would be enforced if the ongoing probe uncovers any breaches of the prevailing regulations.

    True also mentioned that the disclosure made by Supaporn about her augmented stake was labeled as preliminary, indicating that the details are incomplete and remain under scrutiny.

    On a different note, this Monday marked the completion of the sale of a 10% stake in True by the CP Group, achieved via a series of transactions as per an official statement.

    Questions & Answers

    What initiated the review by the Thai market regulator?
    The review was initiated after an individual emerged owning nearly one billion US dollars in shareholdings in True Corporation, making her one of its largest shareholders.

    Who is backing True Corporation?
    True Corporation is backed by Charoen Pokphand Group, one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates.

    How did True Corporation react to Supaporn’s regulatory filing?
    True Corporation pointed out some inconsistencies in Supaporn’s filing, stating that the company has never offered preference shares to the public and currently does not have any outstanding preference shares. The firm has notified the SEC about the discrepancy.

  • Singtel Faces Back-to-Back Disruptions: Singapore’s Largest Mobile Network Grapples with Connection Issues

    Singtel Faces Back-to-Back Disruptions: Singapore’s Largest Mobile Network Grapples with Connection Issues

    On Tuesday, customers of Singtel, the largest mobile network in Singapore, faced connectivity issues for the second consecutive day. These disruptions followed a Monday outage that lasted more than eight hours and impacted thousands of users, creating significant inconvenience for customers and affecting crucial services such as payments, ride-hailing, and food delivery.

    Singtel revealed that a “small number” of customers were experiencing connectivity issues, but clarified that these problems were unrelated to the Monday outage. By 5 p.m. on Tuesday, connectivity had been restored. The company issued an apology for the inconvenience caused to its customers.

    The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), in a recent statement, confirmed that initial investigations into the two incidents found no evidence of any cyber-related issues. They emphasized that they seriously view any service disruptions and pledged to thoroughly investigate both incidents. They also sternly warned that they would not hesitate to take stringent regulatory action against Singtel if any lapses were identified.

    Previous Disruption and Cyber Attack

    On Monday, Singtel experienced a severe network outage that lasted more than eight hours. This disruption led to many Singtel users reporting issues with their mobile services. Some were even unable to make payments or use mobile data for work-related tasks.

    Last month, the authorities in Singapore reported that all four major telcos, including Singtel, had been targeted in a cyberattack by UNC3886. This assault, disclosed last year, enabled the attackers to access critical systems at the telcos. However, no sensitive customer data was compromised.

    Continuing Issues and Customer Dissatisfaction

    Despite the restoration of services, many Singtel and GOMO users reported that they were still unable to reconnect on Tuesday. They expressed frustration over the slow customer service responses. GOMO is a budget-friendly sub-brand of Singtel.

    Priscilla Wee, a 56-year-old homemaker, shared her ordeal of repeatedly turning her phone off and on and reloading her GOMO e-SIM. However, her efforts were in vain. Out of frustration, she terminated her GOMO line on March 17 and switched to StarHub. She stated, “The trust factor with Singtel is now gone.”

    Aaron Ang, chief technology officer of Cyber Leaders Nexus, a Singapore-based cybersecurity company, commented on the situation. He suggested that engineers responding to a significant outage often resort to restarting systems, rerouting traffic, or implementing quick fixes. Such remedial actions can put stress on other parts of the system or reveal hidden issues, potentially causing a second, separate outage.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the cause of the recent Singtel disruptions?
    The company stated that they were unrelated incidents and not associated with any cyber-related issues.

    What were the consequences of these disruptions?
    Thousands of users were affected, with some unable to use essential services such as payments, ride-hailing, and food delivery, leading to significant inconvenience.

    What is the IMDA’s stance on these incidents?
    The Infocomm Media Development Authority takes a serious view of service disruptions, pledging to thoroughly investigate both incidents and warning of stringent regulatory action if any lapses are identified.

  • Nokia Hits the Mark: Reports 3% Q4 Revenue Boost and Meets Full-Year Goals for 2025

    Nokia Hits the Mark: Reports 3% Q4 Revenue Boost and Meets Full-Year Goals for 2025

    Nokia Corporation recently announced a 3% increase in comparable net sales for Q4 2025, achieving EUR 6.1 billion. This increase is attributed to growth in both its network infrastructure and mobile networks businesses. The company’s outcomes are in line with its full-year financial objectives, demonstrating a year of strategic redirection and portfolio growth.

    Financial Overview

    In 2025, Nokia saw a 2% year-on-year rise in net sales on a constant currency and portfolio basis, and a 3% increase as reported.

    The company reported a full-year operating profit of EUR 2.0 billion, marginally surpassing its previously issued guidance midpoint of EUR 1.85 billion.

    Although Q4 saw a rise in revenue, Nokia’s comparable operating margin fell by 90 basis points year-on-year to 17.3%. This decrease can primarily be attributed to increased investment in network infrastructure and costs tied to the integration of Infinera, a recent acquisition aimed at strengthening Nokia’s optical networking portfolio.

    The comparable gross margin expanded by 90 basis points to 48.1%, underpinned by a robust product mix that compensated for a reduced contribution from Nokia Technologies. The reported gross margin, on the other hand, fell by 120 basis points to 44.9% due to augmented restructuring costs.

    In Q4, the comparable diluted EPS was EUR 0.16 (reported EUR 0.10), with a free cash flow of EUR 0.2 billion and a net cash balance of EUR 3.4 billion. For the full year, net sales expanded by 2% on a constant currency and portfolio basis (+3% reported). All these figures are within the prior guidance.

    Networks Overview

    Optical networks became a major growth catalyst, bolstered by robust demand from AI and cloud deployments. IP networks saw roughly 3% growth, facilitated by a strong Q4 2024 showing. Fixed networks stayed largely steady as portfolio optimization actions balanced out growth in fiber OLT shipments. The company’s book-to-bill ratio remained well above 1, reflecting ongoing momentum across both optical and IP networks. Gross margins stayed mostly consistent year-on-year, but operating margins declined due to continued investments related to growth and the integration of Infinera.

    Cloud and network services experienced a slight year-on-year dip in Q4, though full-year net sales increased by 6%, driven by strong demand in core networks. Q4’s gross margin benefited from a modest provision reversal of EUR 37 million. Even excluding this, margins improved, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance profitability. Mobile networks also witnessed strong year-end demand, leading to a 6% growth in net sales in Q4, with gross margins bolstered by a favorable product mix. Meanwhile, Nokia Technologies signed several deals during the quarter, maintaining the contracted net sales run-rate at around EUR 1.4 billion.

    Questions & Answers

    What was Nokia’s full-year operating profit for 2025?
    Nokia’s full-year operating profit for 2025 was EUR 2.0 billion.

    What factors contributed to the decline in Nokia’s comparable operating margin in Q4 2025?
    The decline in Nokia’s comparable operating margin in Q4 2025 was primarily due to increased investment in network infrastructure and costs associated with the integration of Infinera.

    What trends were observed in Nokia’s network businesses in 2025?
    In 2025, optical networks emerged as a key growth driver for Nokia, supported by strong demand from AI and cloud deployments. Fixed networks remained stable, while IP networks saw about 3% growth.

  • “Telenor Retreats from Asian Markets: Sells $3.9 Billion Stake in True Corporation, Bids Adieu to Thailand”

    “Telenor Retreats from Asian Markets: Sells $3.9 Billion Stake in True Corporation, Bids Adieu to Thailand”

    Telenor, the Nordic telecom operator, has confirmed its departure from the Thai telecom sector. After a quarter of a century presence in the country, the company is selling its majority stake in True Corporation. This development is part of Telenor’s strategic withdrawal from the Asian marketplace.

    Details of the Deal

    The agreement outlines that Telenor will sell its 24.95% share in True Corporation to Arise Digital Technology Company. The sale price is set at NOK 32.3 billion. The buyer, Arise, is a company run by Thai businessman Khun Suphachai Chearavanont. Furthering the deal, both parties have reached a consensus allowing Arise to purchase Telenor’s residual 5.35% stake within the forthcoming two years. The cost for this additional acquisition is NOK 6.9 billion.

    Withdrawal from Asia

    The exit from Thailand’s market echoes Telenor’s recent business moves in other Asian territories, epitomizing the company’s ongoing strategy of pulling out of Asia. Notably, it recently sold its Pakistani business to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited for upwards of USD 500 million. The company is now placing a greater emphasis on strengthening its Nordic foundations.

    Telenor still has a presence in Bangladesh and Malaysia through its holdings in Grameenphone and CelcomDigi, respectively. Previously, Telenor operated in both India and Myanmar, but has since withdrawn from these markets.

    Remarks from the CEO

    Telenor’s CEO, Benedicte Schilbred Fasmer, expressed satisfaction with the arrangement made with Arise. She noted that at the company’s Capital Markets Day in November, they had mentioned their search for opportunities to create structural value in Asia. With the completion of Telenor Pakistan’s sale in December and the agreement to sell their shares in True, she believes they have made significant progress towards that goal.

    Telenor’s journey in Thailand began in 2000 when it acquired shares in Total Access Communication (TAC). TAC later became dtac, one of the largest mobile operators in the country. In 2023, dtac and True merged to bolster its competitive stance against the market leader, AIS.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Telenor selling its stake in True Corporation?
    The sale of Telenor’s stake in True Corporation marks the company’s exit from the Thai telecoms market, signifying a strategic pullback from Asia and a refocus on its Nordic operations.

    What other recent business moves has Telenor made in Asia?
    Besides its exit from Thailand, Telenor recently sold its Pakistani business to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited. The company has also previously ceased operations in India and Myanmar.

    Which Asian markets does Telenor still operate in?
    Telenor maintains its presence in Asia through its holdings in Grameenphone in Bangladesh and CelcomDigi in Malaysia.

  • Revolutionizing Taiwan’s Connectivity: Chunghwa Telecom Spearheads North Asia’s First O3b mPower Ground Station with SES

    Revolutionizing Taiwan’s Connectivity: Chunghwa Telecom Spearheads North Asia’s First O3b mPower Ground Station with SES

    Chunghwa Telecom, a Taiwan-based telecommunications company, has officially partnered with SES, a satellite operator based in Luxembourg. The two companies have struck a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the first second-generation O3b mPower ground station in North Asia, located in Taiwan.

    The Aim of the Agreement

    The primary objective of this cooperation is to substantially improve Taiwan’s Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite data transfer capacity and service performance. The project expects to provide faster, more reliable, and highly robust satellite connectivity. In addition to enhancing the data transmission, the project also seeks to strengthen Taiwan’s vital communication infrastructure. To achieve this, it will ensure that essential traffic information is landed directly within the country, thereby supporting network sovereignty and resilience.

    Collaboration’s Contributions

    As part of their collaboration, SES will use their system deployment and operational expertise from their Satellite Innovation Centre in The Hague, the Netherlands. The partnership will highlight the advanced applications that satellites can offer. These include the integration of multi-orbit satellite communications, connectivity to the cloud, edge computing, data analytics for the Internet of Things (IoT), and automated machine vision.

    Furthermore, Chunghwa Telecom and SES are looking into the possibility of establishing a Satellite Innovation Lab in Taiwan. This proposed undertaking will have demonstration sites and certification processes meant to aid domestic companies in speeding up the validation of technology and the adoption of products. By aligning with SES’s global ecosystem, Taiwanese firms might have the opportunity to penetrate international supply chains and gain commercial opportunities.

    Benefitting Taiwan’s Global Stature

    This collaborative effort utilizes Taiwan’s proficiency in semiconductors and avant-garde manufacturing to create a cooperative hardware-and-software ecosystem. This will further reinforce Taiwan’s strategic position in the global satellite and space technology sector.

    Jia Chung-Yung, President of Chunghwa Telecom’s Network Technology Group, shared that the company continues to amalgamate diverse communication resources to build a new-generation network architecture. This structure marries high resilience and technological innovation. He assured that the company will continue to invest in the development of next-generation communication technologies and promote diversified services and application innovations. Furthermore, he emphasized the company’s commitment to its ESG sustainability goals, laying a long-term foundation for Taiwan’s communication resilience.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary aim of the collaboration between Chunghwa Telecom and SES?
    The collaboration primarily aims to improve Taiwan’s Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite data transfer capacity and service performance, and strengthen Taiwan’s essential communication infrastructure.

    What will be SES’s contribution to this collaboration?
    SES will leverage its system deployment and operational expertise from their Satellite Innovation Centre to highlight advanced satellite-enabled applications such as cloud connectivity, edge computing, and IoT data analytics.

    What is the purpose of the proposed Satellite Innovation Lab in Taiwan?
    The Satellite Innovation Lab aims to provide demonstration sites and certification processes to aid domestic firms in speeding up the validation of technology and product adoption, potentially opening up access to international supply chains and commercial opportunities.

  • India Ascends to Second Spot Globally with Over 400 Million 5G Users: A Story of Rapid Digital Transformation

    India Ascends to Second Spot Globally with Over 400 Million 5G Users: A Story of Rapid Digital Transformation

    India has solidified its position as the world’s second-largest 5G subscriber market, just after China. This achievement highlights the nation’s speedy embrace of next-generation connectivity and one of the fastest global network rollouts, as stated by the Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.

    Impressive Numbers in 5G Adoption

    Currently, India boasts of more than 400 million 5G users, making it home to the world’s second-largest 5G subscriber population. Data presented by the Ministry of Communications indicates that telecom service providers have installed approximately 4.69 lakh 5G base transceiver stations nationwide as of March 2025. This reflects the swift pace of 5G deployment in India, which started in October 2022 and is among the fastest rollouts globally.

    Today, 5G services encompass over 99% of India’s districts, with an estimated population coverage of around 85%. Since the initial launch, 25 crore users have migrated to 5G services, and the total subscriber base has surged past 400 million as network accessibility and device adoption have grown.

    Notable Strides in Rural Connectivity

    The Ministry also pointed out significant improvements in rural connectivity. There has been a 42.9% increase in rural telephone connections, almost twice the rate of urban growth. The number of connections has risen from 377.78 million in March 2014 to 539.83 million by September 2025.

    Digital Expansion and Internet Usage

    The digital expansion in India is further mirrored in internet usage. Total internet connections have crossed the one billion mark, reaching 1.0029 billion, compared to 251.5 million in March 2014. This represents a growth of nearly 299%.

    Progress in Telecom Self-Reliance

    In line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, India has made substantial progress in telecom self-reliance. It has joined the select group of nations that have developed an end-to-end 4G stack which is upgradable to 5G. While it took other countries decades to mature similar technologies, India achieved this milestone in just two years. Additionally, there is growing momentum in indigenous 6G research and development under the ambitious Bharat 6G Mission.

    Collectively, these developments firmly establish India as a primary global player in 5G adoption and digital infrastructure. This has implications for enterprise connectivity, innovation, and long-term economic growth across the region.

    Questions & Answers

    What is India’s current rank in the global 5G subscriber market?
    India has emerged as the second-largest 5G subscriber market in the world.

    How many 5G users does India currently have?
    India currently has over 400 million 5G users.

    What has been the growth in rural telephone connections in India?
    Rural telephone connections in India have grown by 42.9%, nearly double the urban growth rate.

  • Revolutionizing Telco Strategy: The Power of Mobile-First in Asia’s Data Consumption Boom

    Revolutionizing Telco Strategy: The Power of Mobile-First in Asia’s Data Consumption Boom

    The Asia Pacific continues to be a global hotspot for mobile innovation, acting as a catalyst for change in telco strategies due to the growing data consumption rate in the region.

    According to the Ericsson Mobility Report, global mobile network data traffic grew approximately 20% annually by the end of 2025. Significantly, 5G accounted for nearly one-third of the total mobile data traffic, a percentage that is swiftly increasing in the Asia Pacific region.

    It’s not just the volume of data consumption that’s driving change. The way people use data, the timing, and the reasons for their usage are also contributing factors. The increase in video-oriented lifestyles, app-based commerce, remote work, and digital public services have transformed mobile connectivity into a basic necessity. Thus, Asia’s telcos are realizing that their success isn’t merely about pursuing traffic growth but rather managing experience, intelligence, and value.

    Asia’s Data Growth Continues Unabated

    The Asia Pacific region contributes significantly to global mobile data growth, primarily due to its size. The region makes up over half of global mobile subscribers and continues to add new users, with total mobile data traffic set to quadruple by 2030.

    While mature markets in other parts of the world begin to level off, Asia’s blend of high population density, affordable smartphones, and aggressive data pricing keeps demand on the rise. For providers, this growth presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Although traffic volumes are increasing, the economics of delivering that data are becoming more complex.

    Video’s Impact on Network Regulations

    The most noticeable change is the emergence of a video-first economy, with traffic expected to account for 76% of all mobile data by the end of 2026. Short-form video, particularly TikTok, has become the new norm for mobile usage, necessitating an evolution of providers like AIS to become a “Cognitive Tech-Co”. This new model uses real-time AI analytics to autonomously adjust network capacity while partnering with platforms to cater to the high-data demands of the burgeoning tourist sector.

    Furthermore, providers like SK Telecom in South Korea have recognized that managing these fluctuations requires more than traditional capacity upgrades. AI-driven traffic forecasting, real-time optimization, and automated network controls are becoming essential. The network must now be capable of thinking, adapting, and responding independently.

    Hyper-Personalization and AI

    Telcos are incorporating hyper-personalization and AI into their strategies to differentiate their offerings, enhance engagement, and capture greater lifetime value. For example, Reliance Jio analyzes usage patterns across its 300+ million subscribers to provide personalized plans, content bundles, and contextual offers in real time.

    Additionally, Telkomsel uses AI-driven analytics and its chatbot to personalize interactions. Similarly, Airtel uses AI-based recommendation engines to push context-aware data and retention offers, improving engagement in high-churn segments. These shifts indicate that erratic data spikes driven by social trends or large-scale gaming releases are now managed using generative AI and machine learning.

    5G as National Infrastructure

    The growth in mobile data consumption in Asia has elevated 5G to the status of national infrastructure, as governments increasingly view high-capacity, low-latency networks as crucial to economic resilience, industrial digitization, and digital inclusion. As a result, telcos are restructuring their strategies around network intelligence to position themselves as foundational platforms for digital economies.

    Monetizing Experience Rather Than Megabytes

    In more developed markets like Australia, operators are experimenting with new ways to generate value from data-hungry users. Optus, for instance, has moved towards speed-tiered broadband plans, prioritizing consistent performance during peak periods rather than data caps. This shift reflects a wider understanding that across the Asia Pacific, customers are willing to pay for quality, low latency, high reliability, and predictable performance, especially for cloud gaming, remote work, and UHD streaming.

    Looking Ahead: Towards an Intelligent, Hybrid Future

    As Asia’s mobile-first journey moves forward, the next step will likely involve a deeper integration between terrestrial networks and satellite connectivity. The ultimate aim is to redefine telco strategy across Asia, competing not just on coverage or price but on the ability to transform networks into intelligent, hybrid platforms.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the key factor driving the transformation of Asia’s telco strategies?
    The key factor is not just the volume of data people consume, but how, when, and why they use it. Trends like video-led lifestyles, app-based commerce, remote work, and digital public services have made mobile connectivity a basic utility.

    Why is the rise of a video-first economy significant for telcos?
    The rise of a video-first economy is significant because it’s projected to account for 76% of all mobile data by the end of 2026. This surge in video consumption requires telcos to adjust their network capacities and strategies to accommodate the increased traffic.

    What does the future look like for telco strategies across the Asia Pacific?
    The future of telco strategies across the Asia Pacific will involve deeper integration between terrestrial networks and satellite connectivity. Telcos will compete not just on coverage or price but on their ability to transform networks into intelligent, hybrid platforms.

  • Unlocking Vietnam’s Digital Economy: The Transformative Impact of 5G Expansion

    Unlocking Vietnam’s Digital Economy: The Transformative Impact of 5G Expansion

    Vietnam’s burgeoning 5G network is forecasted to bolster the forthcoming wave of the nation’s digital economy. This expectation comes as local telecommunications companies hasten infrastructure development and commence the expansion of commercial and public sector applications.

    5G Infrastructure Expansion

    Viettel, Vietnam’s premier operator, has established around 30,000 5G base stations, achieving approximately 90% outdoor coverage and 70% indoor coverage. This surpasses the commitments the company made to the government. As predicted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology, by 2025, 5G services were widely commercialized throughout the nation, reaching over 90% of the population.

    Practical Economic Benefits

    Telecommunications providers affirm that the extended availability of 5G is already producing tangible economic advantages, particularly within rural commerce and agriculture. Since August 2025, Viettel Post has facilitated numerous livestream sales sessions in several provinces such as Thai Nguyen, Vinh Long, Bac Ninh, and Lai Chau, to assist farmers in reaching consumers across the nation.

    In Sin Ho commune, located in Lai Chau province, three livestream sessions led to more than 300 tons of yacon root being sold by local Mong farmers. According to Dinh Thanh Son, Deputy General Director of Viettel Post, the marriage of 5G connectivity and integrated logistics systems is aiding farmers in reducing their reliance on traditional intermediaries and managing price fluctuations. The existence of stable, high-speed connections allows farmers to livestream directly from production sites, while 5G-enabled Internet of Things applications are being trialed to monitor conditions such as temperature, humidity, and weather in agricultural production.

    5G Rollout and Development

    Nguyen Duy Lam, a Senior Telecommunications Solutions Expert at Huawei Vietnam, shared that the rollout of 5G in Vietnam has made rapid strides in areas like e-commerce. However, the establishment of smart city and smart factory applications will necessitate continued enterprise investment and supportive government policies.

    Nguyen Ha Thanh, Deputy General Director of Viettel Telecom, considers 5G as strategic national digital infrastructure, aligning with a specific national resolution. She believes the impact of 5G investments should be evaluated from a national viewpoint, taking into account improvements in governance efficiency, quality of life, and the development of novel digital business models.

    Network Coverage and Focus Shift

    With network coverage largely in place, operators are now shifting their attention towards applications and platforms. Viettel Telecom intends to launch three virtual assistant platforms for individuals, households, and enterprises over its 5G network. Concurrently, MobiFone is executing 5G-based smart city solutions in Hanoi, inclusive of AI-powered camera systems, emergency response drones, and comprehensive urban monitoring platforms that address issues like traffic congestion, flooding, environmental pollution, and food safety.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the current state of Vietnam’s 5G network?
    Vietnam’s 5G network has been extensively developed, with the country’s largest operator, Viettel, establishing approximately 30,000 base stations. This has resulted in around 90% outdoor coverage and 70% indoor coverage.

    How is 5G aiding Vietnam’s rural sectors?
    5G is proving particularly beneficial to rural commerce and agriculture, where high-speed connections allow for activities such as livestream sales sessions. This is helping farmers reach consumers nationwide without the need for traditional intermediaries.

    What future applications are being planned for Vietnam’s 5G network?
    Looking ahead, operators are shifting their focus towards applications and platforms. Viettel Telecom plans to introduce three virtual assistant platforms, while MobiFone is implementing smart city solutions in Hanoi. These advancements will further integrate 5G connectivity into everyday life and enterprise operations.

  • Philippines Telecom and Pay-TV Eye $9.7B Revenue Boom by 2029, Fuelled by Mobile Data and Broadband Growth

    Philippines Telecom and Pay-TV Eye $9.7B Revenue Boom by 2029, Fuelled by Mobile Data and Broadband Growth

    The Philippines’ telecommunications and pay-TV service sectors are set to experience a surge in revenue, increasing from USD 8 billion in 2024 to an estimated USD 9.7 billion by 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8%. The expected growth can be attributed to the expanding mobile data and fixed broadband service sectors.

    Mobile Voice Service Revenue Facing a Decline

    Despite the overall projected growth in the telecom industry, mobile voice services are anticipated to experience a decline in revenue. This is a result of a consistent drop in the average revenue per user (ARPU) levels of mobile voice services. Consumers are increasingly turning towards internet or application-based communication platforms, and operators are providing complimentary voice minutes in their service plans.

    Promising Growth in Mobile Data Service Sector

    The mobile data service sector, however, is expected to witness substantial growth, with an anticipated CAGR of 7.1% over the forecast period. This growth is driven by an increase in mobile internet subscriptions, especially the upswing in 5G subscriptions, which will significantly enhance mobile data ARPU levels.

    The adoption of 5G services is expected to escalate rapidly in the coming years, with 5G projected to become the dominant mobile technology generation by subscriber base in 2029. This growth surge in 5G adoption can be credited to the ongoing 5G network expansion initiatives by operators across the country.

    Fixed Communication Services Sector

    In the fixed communication services sector, revenue from fixed voice services is likely to reduce due to a decrease in circuit-switched subscriptions and a decline in fixed voice ARPU levels. However, the fixed broadband service revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2024 to 2029. This growth can be linked to the rising adoption of higher ARPU fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband services.

    The increased adoption of FTTH broadband services in the Philippines is a response to the growing demand for high-speed broadband services and the ongoing expansion of fiber network coverage by operators.

    Projected Growth in Pay-TV Services Revenue

    The revenue from pay-TV services in the country is also predicted to increase over the forecast period, backed by robust growth in IPTV subscriptions and a steady rise in DTH subscriptions.

    Leading Telecom Market Players

    In the mobile services sector, Globe Telecom and PLDT are expected to retain their market leader positions by subscription share throughout the forecast period. This is due to their concentrated efforts on mobile network expansion and modernization. PLDT will continue leading in the fixed broadband sector, largely driven by its extensive fiber network coverage and increasing FTTH subscriber base.

    Questions & Answers

    What is contributing to the growth in the Philippine telecommunications industry?
    The growth in the industry is primarily due to the expanding mobile data and fixed broadband service sectors.

    Why is the mobile voice services revenue expected to decline?
    The projected decline is a result of a consistent drop in mobile voice service ARPU levels as consumers increasingly prefer internet or application-based communication platforms.

    Which telecom operators are expected to remain market leaders in the Philippines?
    In the mobile services sector, Globe Telecom and PLDT are expected to maintain their market leader positions due to their focused efforts on mobile network expansion and modernization.