Today’s telecom news includes announcements on VEON, Deutsche Telekom, T-Mobile, Kyivstar, among others.
VEON’s Digital Surge Sparks Higher 2026 Forecasts Amid Strong Telecom Growth
VEON has raised its 2026 revenue growth forecast after reporting a sharp rise in first-quarter earnings driven by booming digital services and favorable currency movements. The telecom group now expects annual revenue growth of 11 percent-14 percent, up from its earlier 9 percent-12 percent estimate. First-quarter revenue climbed 17 percent to $1.1 billion, while EBITDA increased 17.7 percent to $517 million. VEON’s digital revenue surged 57.7 percent to $303 million, accounting for more than a quarter of total revenue as the company expands its fintech and digital platforms across markets including Ukraine, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The company also increased its capital spending target ahead of spectrum auctions in Pakistan, signaling continued investment in growth-focused frontier markets.
T-Mobile Power Surge Pushes Deutsche Telekom to Raise 2026 Forecast
Deutsche Telekom has raised its 2026 financial guidance after strong momentum at its U.S. subsidiary T-Mobile US boosted first-quarter performance. The telecom giant now expects adjusted EBITDA after leases of around €47.5 billion in 2026, slightly above its earlier forecast and ahead of analyst expectations. Quarterly organic revenue climbed 4.7 percent to €29.9 billion, while adjusted EBITDA rose 7.5 percent to €11.5 billion. T-Mobile’s strong demand for premium plans and bundled services helped lift postpaid account growth forecasts in the U.S. Meanwhile, Deutsche Telekom continued expanding its fiber network in Germany despite pressure in the fixed-line market. Investors welcomed the stronger outlook, sending shares higher.
Kyivstar Powers Ahead with Strong 2026 Growth Despite Ukraine War Challenges
Ukraine’s leading telecom operator, Kyivstar, has upgraded its 2026 revenue and profit forecasts after reporting strong first-quarter growth driven by rising demand for mobile, broadband and digital services. The company now expects annual revenue growth of 11 percent-14 percent, compared with its earlier 8 percent-11 percent estimate, while EBITDA growth is projected at 7 percent-10 percent. First-quarter revenue jumped 26.6 percent to $323 million, and core profit increased 23.5 percent to $173 million. CEO Oleksandr Komarov said improving energy stability and stronger consumer confidence supported the performance. Kyivstar is also expanding beyond telecom through investments in digital healthcare, streaming platforms, AI services and limited 5G development initiatives.
SHAFANA FAZAL