Expanding Influence in European Telecom
Mexico’s telecommunications giant, America Movil, has strategically increased its stake in Telekom Austria, marking a significant expansion of its influence in the European telecom sector. The company recently acquired additional shares, amounting to 5.55% of the voting rights in Telekom Austria.
Enhanced Shareholding
This latest acquisition elevates America Movil’s total shareholding in the Austrian mobile operator from 51% to 56.55%. The financial details of this transaction, however, remain undisclosed by the company.
Supporting Telekom Austria’s Business Spinoff
In a move that underscores the cooperative relationship between the main shareholders, America Movil and the Austrian state holding company OeBAG had previously agreed to support the spinoff of Telekom Austria’s mobile towers business. This spinoff, planned for listing on the Vienna Stock Exchange, will see shares distributed proportionally to Telekom Austria’s shareholders. America Movil had already secured significant funding for this separated tower entity, highlighting its commitment to the venture.
OeBAG’s Stake and Telekom Austria’s Reach
OeBAG retains a 28% stake in Telekom Austria, as indicated on the operator’s corporate website. The A1 Telekom Austria Group’s operations span several countries, including Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia.
America Movil’s Global Footprint
America Movil, predominantly active in Latin America, also holds a partial ownership in Dutch telco KPN, reflecting its broader presence in the European market.
5G Expansion in Mexico
In recent developments, America Movil has reported the provision of 5G services across 104 cities in Mexico. The company also announced the launch of 5G services for its prepaid users, a move enabling over 68 million prepaid customers to access its 5G network. This expansion is expected to benefit more than 80 million Telcel customers.
Increased Demand and User Migration
The introduction of 5G services has been observed to boost the demand for postpaid mobile plans in Mexico. Daniel Hajj, CEO of America Movil, noted a significant migration of users from 4G to 5G networks, contributing to an increase in the company’s Average Revenue Per User (ARPU).
Initial Launch of 5G in Mexico
America Movil commenced its 5G services in Mexico in February of the previous year, initially covering 18 of the country’s largest cities and reaching over 48 million people. The company, operating under the Telcel brand, launched its 5G network in major cities including Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara, Tijuana, and Puebla, among others.