Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Vodafone, Liberty Global, Benelux telecom group, Telenet, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), among others.
Vodafone Reshapes European Strategy with €1bn Dutch Exit Deal
Vodafone has agreed to sell its 50 percent stake in VodafoneZiggo to partner Liberty Global for €1 billion ($1.18 billion) in cash. As part of the transaction, Vodafone will also receive a 10 percent stake in a newly formed Benelux telecom group that will combine VodafoneZiggo with Belgian operator Telenet. The new entity is expected to be listed on Euronext Amsterdam in 2027. The deal, anticipated to close in late 2026, enables Vodafone to streamline its portfolio while retaining strategic exposure to the Dutch market through minority ownership and long-term commercial agreements.
Oman’s Telecom Workforce Hits 94 percent Localisation as Digital Transformation Gains Momentum
Oman’s telecommunications sector has reached a 94 percent Omanisation rate, marking a significant milestone in national workforce development, according to the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). The achievement reflects sustained efforts to strengthen local talent participation while accelerating digital transformation across the industry. The sector continues to witness solid growth, supported by rising mobile subscriptions, expanding broadband penetration and greater adoption of advanced technologies. Increasing Internet of Things (IoT) connections further signals the expansion of Oman’s digital ecosystem.
UK Fibre Shake-Up: InfraVia, Liberty Global & Telefónica Join Forces to Acquire Substantial Group
InfraVia Capital Partners, Liberty Global, and Telefónica have agreed to buy the UK‑based Substantial Group for £2 billion through their joint fibre venture nexfibre. Substantial, which includes the Netomnia network and associated retail brands, is the UK’s second‑largest alternative full‑fibre provider, serving over 500,000 customers and more than 3.4 million premises. The acquisition aims to create a major challenger to BT Openreach by combining nexfibre’s network with Substantial infrastructure and expanding fibre coverage to roughly 8 million premises by end‑2027. When added to Virgin Media O2’s footprint, total reach could hit 20 million.
SHAFANA FAZAL