Reliance Jio
Reliance Jio revenue, EBITDA will double in next 3-4 years: Mukesh Ambani
Reliance Industries (RIL) Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani on Thursday announced that they are aiming to double its revenue as well as EBITDA of its telecom offering Reliance Jio in the next 3-4 years.
Reliance plan to double Jio, Retail revenue in next 3-4 years not very ambitious? Deven Choksey explains
Reliance plans to double its revenue and EBITDA for Jio and retail in the next three to four years. They are focusing on AI-driven applications and omni-channel retail growth. Additionally, the new energy segment, led by Anant Ambani, aims to surpass the O2C business in profitability within five to seven years.
Mukesh Ambani bets big on new-energy business as RIL mulls bonus issue
Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) will consider a bonus issue, its first in seven years, and aims to transform into a deep-tech, new-energy leader. The company's board will meet on September 5 to discuss this. RIL targets ranking among the top 30 most valuable companies globally in the near future, Mukesh Ambani said at the company's AGM
JioTV+ offers over 867 live TV channels, best of streaming content: Akash Ambani
JioTV+, pre-installed on JioFiber's set-top boxes, offers over 860 live TV channels and content from various OTT apps. The platform simplifies content discovery with features like fast channel switching, personalized recommendations, and a voice assistant. Jio's new TvOS enhances the viewing experience with ultra HD 4K video and Dolby integration.
RIL AGM 2024 Date, Time: When and where to watch Reliance Industries' 47th Annual General Meeting live stream online
RIL AGM 2024 Live Stream: Reliance Industries will hold its 47th Annual General Meeting on August 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be broadcast via video conferencing. Chairman Mukesh Ambani is expected to discuss Jio Financial Services, green energy initiatives, potential IPOs for Jio and Reliance Retail, and his succession plan for the company.
RIL AGM: 4 things that shareholders expect from Mukesh Ambani
After leaving everyone spellbound with a lavish Rs 5,000 crore wedding, the Ambani family is coming together again on stage this week - but this time for the much-awaited annual general meeting of Reliance Industries. The 47th AGM of India's most valued conglomerate will be held on August 29 from 2 pm in which RIL Chairman & MD Mukesh Ambani will address 35 lakh shareholders of the company.RIL AGM: 4 things that shareholders expect from Mukesh Ambani
There is no need for voice or SMS-only packs, say telecom companies
Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea opposed the introduction of separate voice or SMS-only packs, emphasising that current tariff plans cater to all users. They highlighted the shift towards data-centric communication, citing increased usage with bundled voice and data offerings. The operators stressed that unbundling plans may lead to complexity and higher costs for consumers, potentially widening the digital divide. SMS packs have lost relevance due to messaging apps and reduced SMS usage.
Trai move to curb fraud could ring in an SMS outage next month
Starting next month, Indian consumers may experience disruptions in receiving service and transactional messages due to a new directive from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai). Telcos must block non-whitelisted messages to combat spam. Banks and financial institutions need to register their message content by August 31 to avoid being blocked.
Reliance Jio enhances network capacity to assist relief efforts in Wayanad
Reliance Jio set up a second tower in landslide-affected Kerala to improve connectivity. The Indian Army intensified rescue efforts, recovering bodies and evacuating survivors. Kerala Health Minister Veena George confirmed 154 bodies handed to district officials. The death toll in Wayanad reached 167, with compensations announced for families and the injured.
Reliance Jio enhances network capacity to assist relief efforts in Wayanad
At least 30 people went missing in Shimla's Samej Khad area due to a cloudburst, with rescue operations underway. Roads were washed away and a hydro power project damaged. Drones are being used to locate missing people. Another incident occurred in Mandi's Thaltukhod, Padhar subdivision, with one body recovered and 9 people still missing.
DoT may ask Trai to take a call on backhaul spectrum based on usage
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to adopt a comprehensive approach to backhaul spectrum allocation, given advancements in 5G and 6G technologies. Reliance Jio advocates for auctioning backhaul spectrum for access services, while rivals Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea oppose this. Satcom players like Starlink and Project Kuiper prefer non-exclusive administrative allocation for their needs. The DoT is preparing to respond to Trai’s consultation on spectrum assignment, emphasizing the need for clarity on spectrum usage for backhaul versus mobility.
Telcos go slow on content spends; investment towards buying content falls 12% in FY24
In the last few years, telecom operators have been heavily focused on acquiring content from TV broadcasters, besides partnering with streaming platforms, to build stickiness and drive data consumption.
Telcos AGR rises 8% to Rs 2.7 lakh cr; govt SUC collection drop 32% in FY24
In 2023-24, telecom operators' adjusted gross revenue saw an increase of 8.24%, amounting to Rs 2.7 lakh crore. Reliance Jio led with the highest AGR, followed by Bharti Airtel. Government revenue from licence fees rose while spectrum usage charges decreased. Public Sector Undertakings' share in the AGR witnessed a minor decline compared to the previous year.
Telcos push for regulating OTT communication apps
Telecom companies have pushed for regulators to bring communication apps like WhatsApp into regulatory licensing. They supported the idea for a single Unified Services Authorisation to simplify telecom regulations. Industry bodies had mixed reactions, with some cautioning against structural changes and others urging expansion of ISP license scope.
Reliance Jio Q1 Results: PAT jumps 12% YoY to Rs 5,445 cr
Reliance Jio Infocomm on Friday reported a net profit of Rs 5,445 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, which was up by 12% over Rs 4,863 crore reported by the company in the year-ago period.The Reliance Industries' telecom subsidiary reported revenue from operations at Rs 26,478 crore, which was up by 10% from Rs 24,042 crore reported by the company in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.Reliance Jio Q1 Results: PAT jumps 12% YoY to Rs 5,445 cr
Airtel beats street view, Q1 net surges 158%
Bharti Airtel reported a significant increase in its consolidated net profit for Q1 FY25, rising more than 150% year-over-year and doubling sequentially, driven by exceptional gains, improved average revenue per user (ARPU), and reduced finance costs. The telecom giant posted a net profit of ₹4,159.9 crore, exceeding analyst estimates.
Reliance Jio AI-Cloud Welcome Offer: Reliance to give 100 GB free storage starting Diwali. Here is how to avail and what services you will get
Jio AI-Cloud Welcome Offer: Reliance has announced the Jio AI-Cloud Welcome Offer to be launched this Diwali, providing up to 100 GB of free cloud storage for Jio users. The initiative aligns with the vision of 'AI Everywhere For Everyone' and includes features like Jio TvOS, Jio Home IoT, Jio TV+, and Jio Phonecall AI.
New service quality rules tough, will hike cost burden: Telcos
Telcos in India are expressing concerns over new service quality rules set by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai), which they believe will increase their cost and compliance burden. The rules will come into effect from October 1, and telcos will raise the issue with telecom minister Jyotiraditya Scindia soon. The industry claims that no regulator in similar economies has introduced such norms, and that while the rules will entail a cost burden, the benefits on consumers won't be great.
Airtel & Jio may invest $2 bn in 5G gear to boost mobile broadband
Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are planning to buy an additional $2 billion worth of 5G network equipment to expand their next-gen mobile broadband coverage. This move is driven by a rapidly growing user base and increasing shipments of smartphones that support next-gen technology.
DoT allocates airwaves to all three telecom companies
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has allocated spectrum to all three private telecom operators who purchased airwaves in the June auction. The companies had made the upfront payments on July 26, allowing DoT to garner over ₹1,000 crore from the spectrum sale.
Telcos pay Rs 1,000 crore for first installment of 5G spectrum
The Department of Telecommunications received over Rs 1,000 crore from Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio for their 5G spectrum purchases. All three telecom companies opted for annual installments. Airtel made the highest first installment payment, followed by Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio. The telcos will receive their allocated frequencies shortly for their new spectrum purchases.
Govt to pay cash-starved telco MTNL’s $5.1 billion bond bill
The Indian government will cover all future bond payments for Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. due to a liquidity crisis. The loss-making company has 426.8 billion rupees ($5.1 billion) of interest and principal repayments due on local-currency bonds guaranteed by the government by 2034. The government has already honored MTNL's bond payment this month.
Jio 5g plan: Check out details of Rs 349 tariff
The Jio Rs. 349 prepaid plan offers excellent value with a 28-day validity. Subscribers receive 2.5GB of high-speed data per day, 100 SMS per day, and unlimited talk time. Additionally, the plan includes access to Jio apps such as JioTV, JioCinema, and JioSaavn. This plan is ideal for users seeking a comprehensive and affordable option for voice calls, data, and SMS.
Reliance Jio IPO: Listing likely in 2025 at $112 billion valuation, says Jefferies
Investors anticipate the impending Reliance Jio IPO as billionaire Mukesh Ambani remains tight-lipped. The recent telecom tariff hike is seen as a precursor to this long-awaited event. Jefferies, a global investment banking firm, suggests that the high-profile listing could materialize in 2025, valuing Jio at $112 billion.
JioTag Air launched in India: Now easily track everything from pets to keys. Check price, features, availability
Reliance Jio has launched the JioTag Air, an affordable asset tracker priced at Rs 1,499, offering a cost-effective alternative to Apple's AirTag. The compact device helps users track valuables like keys, wallets, and luggage. It is compatible with both the Apple Find My network and the JioThings app, emitting a loud sound to locate items and providing disconnection alerts.
Airbus to deliver helicopter H160 to India by 2025
Airbus is preparing to deliver its cutting-edge H160 helicopter to India by early 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Indian aviation market. Captain Nicolas Boltoukhine, Senior Operational Marketing Manager at Airbus, highlighted the H160's advanced features, emphasizing its safety, comfort, and suitability for India's diverse weather conditions.
Rupee recovers 5 paise from all-time low to 83.65 against US dollar in early trade
The rupee appreciated by 5 paise to 83.65 per US dollar, supported by a weaker dollar index at 104.29 and RBI intervention. Forex reserves hit $666.854 billion. Sensex fell 264.92 points; Nifty 88.10 points. FIIs invested ₹1,506.12 crore. Brent crude traded at $83.20 per barrel. Previous rupee low was 83.70. Macroeconomic changes and weak US data impacted the dollar.
Jio net profit up 12% YoY in Q1FY25, marginally misses estimates
Reliance Jio, a subsidiary of Jio Platforms Limited, reported an 11.9% year-on-year increase in net profit for Q1 FY25, reaching Rs 5,445 crore. This is a slight rise from Rs 5,337 crore in the previous quarter and Rs 4,863 crore a year earlier. Revenue grew by 1.9% sequentially to Rs 26,580 crore. However, Jio's finance costs and access charges rose, and its Q1 net profit fell marginally short of analysts' expectations. Reliance Industries’ shares closed 1.92% lower following the earnings release.
Reliance Jio Q1 Results: PAT jumps 12% YoY to Rs 5,445 crore, revenue rises 10%
Reliance Jio Q1 Results: The Reliance Industries' telecom subsidiary reported revenue from operations at Rs 26,478 crore, an increase of 10% from Rs 24,042 crore reported in the corresponding period of the previous financial year. The standalone revenue was up 2% on a quarter-on-quarter basis from Rs 25,959 crore reported in the January-March quarter.
Jio wired broadband user base up 34.5% in a year, Airtel's 24.2%
The demand for 5G-based fixed wireless access services is driving growth in India's wired broadband sector. Reliance Jio has seen a 34.5% increase in its user base, surpassing Bharti Airtel. Analysts believe that 5G FWA services could lead to new revenue streams for telcos, with higher ARPU compared to mobile services. India's fixed broadband market has potential for significant expansion.
Telecom sector looking up: Should you invest in Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Reliance Jio stocks?
Recent tariff hikes, low spectrum payouts and government support will boost the performance of telecom stocks.
Jio pays Rs 973.63 cr to buy 1800 MHz in Bihar, West Bengal
Reliance Jio has acquired additional spectrum in the 1800 MHz band in Bihar and West Bengal, spending Rs 973.63 crore. The acquisition aims to address geography-specific demand and ensure quality of service. Jio's spectrum footprint increased to 26,801 MHz (Uplink + Downlink), solidifying its leadership position. The technology-agnostic band, which includes 5 MHz in Bihar and 9.4 MHz in West Bengal, can be paid over 20 annual instalments at 8.65% interest per annum.
Jyotiraditya Scindia promises timeline-based action plan for Telecom sector
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced plans to address telecom sector challenges after meetings with industry leaders. Discussions included requests like customs duty waivers on network equipment and reducing license fees. The government will formulate action plans with clear timelines based on committee inputs. Telecom giants like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio seek tax sops and suspension of AGR contributions. Scindia aims to propel India towards becoming a telecom superpower through collaborative efforts with stakeholders.
Telecom minister Scindia brainstorms with Ambani, Mittal, others to chart telecom growth roadmap
Scindia during the meeting deliberated on fostering growth of the telecom sector in a collaborative manner while maintaining the interest of consumers and the nation. "We have identified a rather deep agenda for these committees. Now the members of these committees and we will be working together," Scindia told reporters after the meeting.
Reliance Jio leads in new mobile users, Airtel gains ground; Vi continues decline: TRAI data
Reliance Jio maintained its lead over Bharti Airtel by adding 2.20 million mobile users in May, while Airtel followed with 1.25 million additions, as per TRAI data. Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea (Vi) faced a loss of 924,797 users, marking its largest decline in three months. Airtel recorded the highest active subscriber percentage at 99.07%. Jio held 40.60% of the wireless market share with 474.62 million users, followed by Airtel at 33.17% with 387.77 million users, and Vi at 18.66% with 218.16 million users.
DoT issues demand notices to Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio for 5G spectrum payments
In India’s second 5G airwaves sale that concluded June 26, Bharti Airtel was the biggest spectrum buyer, lapping up 97 MHz of 5G airwaves worth Rs 6,856.76 crore. Vi was the second-biggest buyer, acquiring 30 MHz of 5G spectrum for Rs 3,510.40 crore. Telecom market leader Reliance Jio bought a modest chunk of 5G airwaves worth Rs 973.62 crore, its lowest-ever in an auction.
Telecom ministry to work on actionable plan on issues identified by panels: Jyotiraditya Scindia
Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced the telecom ministry's commitment to addressing industry issues with a detailed action plan and set timelines during discussions with major telecom operators, including top executives from Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. Six committees have been formed to tackle key sector challenges, with a focus on boosting India's communication industry to achieve self-reliance and global leadership.
DoT yet to seek payment for 5G spectrum sold in June auction
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has not yet issued demand notes to telecom firms for payment of spectrum won in the latest auction, which concluded three weeks ago. Officials state that the delay is due to awaiting clearance from the finance ministry, possibly tied up with budget preparations for presentation on July 23.
Anant-Radhika Wedding: Ambani family arrives at Jio World Centre as festivities begin, watch!
Industrialist Mukesh Ambani; Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd Akash Ambani and his wife Shloka Mehta; Reliance Industries Limited Director, Isha Ambani and her husband Anand Piramal at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Anant-Radhika Wedding: Ambani family arrives at Jio World Centre as festivities begin, watch!
Most telecoms want price reduction in 40GHz spectrum band
Telecom companies in India are advocating for a 50% reduction in the reserve price of newly identified high-frequency spectrum ranges in the 40GHz band, citing the high costs associated with building networks in these bands compared to lower frequency bands. This proposal comes ahead of India's first auction of mmWave spectrum for 5G services, encompassing frequency ranges critical for mobility and satellite communications.
Reliance Jio down: Users report issues with JioFiber & mobile internet
Reliance Jio is currently experiencing a widespread service outage across India, impacting access to communication applications and affecting remote employees. According to Downdetector, there is a notable issue with both fiber and mobile internet connectivity. Complaints surged to about 2,300 reports around 1:41 pm, subsided briefly by 2:11 pm, but then increased again with over 1,900 complaints.
Budget 2024: Duty relief, tax rebate on telecom wishlist
Union Budget: India's top carriers seek a duty waiver on 4G/5G gear in the Budget to cut costs and improve connectivity. They propose suspending the 5% AGR contribution towards USOF until its ₹79,638.31 crore corpus is used, reducing the licence fee to 1% of AGR, and extending tax rebates. COAI, major carriers, and finance ministry support it.
Amarnath Yatra pilgrims to have 5G connectivity en route: DoT
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) announced that telecom infrastructure has been enhanced for this year's Amarnath Yatra, ensuring seamless mobile connectivity, including 5G coverage, along the pilgrimage route. In collaboration with Bharti Airtel, BSNL, and Reliance Jio, continuous coverage has been provided from Lakhanpur to Qazigund and from Qazigund to Pahalgam and Baltal, with 5G technology available in many areas.
Telecom hiring may lose steam in FY25
India will need a 22 million skilled workforce by 2025 to operate hardware and software-defined networks and support 5G-centric technologies such as IoT, AI, and robotics, estimated Sumit Kumar, chief business officer, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeships. Overall, the telecom sector is expected to employ 6.79 million workforce in the ongoing fiscal, having grown at a rate of 29.5%, according to TeamLease.
Congress slams govt over mobile phone tariff hike by 3 leading firms
The Congress party criticized the Modi government for allowing three major private telecom companies—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea—to increase mobile service tariffs, accusing them of profiteering from 109 crore users. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala condemned the unilateral tariff hikes, highlighting that the companies collectively raised rates by an average of 15% effective July 3 and 4, 2024.
Reliance's Jio Platforms clears hurdle in bid to launch satellite internet in India
Joint venture between Reliance Industries' Jio Platforms and SES, based in Luxembourg, has received the green light from the Indian space regulator to operate satellites in the country, according to a government official. Orbit Connect India, aimed at delivering high-speed internet access via satellites, has secured three approvals. This development emerges amidst a competitive landscape where companies like Amazon.com and Elon Musk's Starlink are seeking approval to launch satellite communication services in India, the world's most populous nation.
Airtel and Jio expected to log steady growth, Vi may falter
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are expected to show steady growth in the June quarter, driven by strong broadband user additions, while Vodafone Idea (Vi) is likely to experience a dip in revenue due to ongoing customer losses. Airtel is anticipated to outperform Jio in terms of average revenue per user (ARPU) due to 2G-to-4G conversions and rising postpaid adoption. Vi's ARPU is expected to remain stagnant amidst limited 4G user gains.
There is a ring of truth to tariff hike
India's telecom companies, including Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, are increasing tariffs to boost revenue and fund network expansion, following a lifeline from the Government of India for spectrum purchase. Despite high spectrum prices and fierce competition, recent price hikes signal industry recovery and a shift towards sustainable growth. The focus is now on transitioning subscribers to 4G and preparing for the game-changing 5G era to support India's digital development.
Telcos' tariff hikes to push up core inflation by 0.2 pc in FY25: Report
The recent tariff hikes by the top three telcos in the country are expected to raise core inflation by 0.20 per cent in FY25, with analysts at Deutsche Bank revising their core inflation forecast to 3.8 per cent. The impact of the hikes is anticipated to be felt from July onwards, potentially pushing month-on-month core inflation by over 0.85 per cent. The Reserve Bank of India is closely monitoring the inflation trajectory, especially considering factors like below-trend monsoon rains and fluctuating food prices.
Reliance Jio & Airtel roll out new mobile tariffs. Here's the updated list of prepaid plans with prices & validity
Industry giants, Reliance Jio and Airtel, lead the charge with revamped tariffs, ensuring access to cutting-edge 5G services. The adjustments aim to align pricing with enhanced network offerings, setting a new standard in the competitive telecom landscape.
Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea push long-term plans at old rates to retain users
After announcing telecom pack price hikes of up to 25% effective July 3-4, telcos are urging subscribers to recharge long-term plans at old prices to reduce customer attrition. Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are promoting 365-day plans priced between Rs 2,545 and Rs 3,099 through in-app promotions.
Jio, Airtel pricing strategy shows they still target Vi’s 2G users: Analysts
Analysts suggest that Vodafone Idea could encounter difficulties in retaining its 2G subscribers, as recent tariff increases indicate that competitors like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel remain focused on attracting Vi's low-end customers. Reliance Jio has maintained its rates for 4G feature phones, while Bharti Airtel has made minimal adjustments to its basic plans, highlighting their strategies to capture Vi's 2G user base.
Jio, Airtel hike mobile tariffs: Here are some tips to save money on your mobile bills
Reliance Jio and Airtel are preparing to raise tariffs from July 3, 2024, prompting prepaid users to recharge before this date to avoid higher costs. Postpaid users will face immediate price adjustments. The goal is to increase Average Revenue per User (ARPU) for both telecom giants, affecting millions of subscribers across India.
Airtel, Jio free cash flow seen rising amid falling capex spends, growing ARPU
Analysts predict Bharti Airtel's and Reliance Jio's free cash flows to rise in FY26, reaching approximately Rs 56,000 crore and Rs 38,500 crore, respectively. This growth stems from reduced capital expenditures and higher average revenue per user (ARPU). Both telcos expect a surge in ARPU driven by tariff hikes and increased data usage amid 5G deployments
Extent and frequency of tariff revisions crucial for financial health of telcos
Following the increase in tariffs, the stock of Reliance Industries rose by 2.3% on Friday to close at Rs 3,131.9. On the other hand, stocks of Bharti Airtel and VIL were under pressure, falling by 1.8% to Rs 1,445.4 and by 3.4% to Rs 17.9 in that order amid profit booking after a recent surge in their prices.
Reliance Jio's ARPU for Q1 FY25 remains muted at Rs 181.7 with customer base reaching 489.7 million
Reliance Jio Infocomm maintains steady average revenue per user at Rs 181.7, adds 8 million subscribers, and sees a 12% increase in net profit. The company's focus on affordable internet and new prepaid plans aims to drive sustainable growth and market leadership.
5G spectrum auction put off again till June 25
This is the second time the spectrum sale has been pushed back. It was originally scheduled on May 20, and was initially deferred to June 6, in the wake of the general elections. Now, mock auctions will be conducted on June 13 and 14, the DoT said in its official notification amending the auction rules. This time round, 5G airwaves in eight bands — the 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3.3 GHz and 26 GHz bands — worth over Rs 96,000 crore at base prices, will be on sale.
Airtel hikes tariffs by 11-21%, a day after Jio
Bharti Airtel announced on Friday that it will raise tariffs for all its prepaid and postpaid users starting July 3. This move follows a similar hike by rival Reliance Jio, which increased its rates by 12-15%. The primary objective of these changes is to improve the average revenue per user (ARPU).
DoT defers spectrum auction to June 25
The Department of Telecom has postponed the spectrum auction to June 25, extending the start date by 19 days. The auction will cover eight spectrum bands with a base price of Rs 96,317 crore. Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea are among the key players, with Jio making the highest earnest money deposit. The auction will use an EMD-based points system, and bidders will have the option to make payments over 20 years and surrender the spectrum after 10 years.
Telcos now targeting T20 cricket world cup to boost data usage, ARPU
Telecom companies are capitalizing on the cricket fever post IPL by launching low-priced data packs and bundled subscriptions for the upcoming World Cup to boost data usage and revenue per user.
Reliance Jio takes the lead, hikes tariff by 12-25 per cent; Airtel & Vi likely to follow suit
Mobile phone bills are set to increase as Reliance Jio Infocomm announced a 12-25% hike in tariffs starting July 3. This marks the first major rate increase by a telecom company since 2021. Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea are expected to follow suit. The hike aims to boost average revenue per user (ARPU) in light of significant 5G investments. Jio’s rate hikes will affect most plans, but not JioBharat or JioPhone users.
Vodafone Idea's 'big' spectrum spend to help plug user exodus
Analysts added that Vi's spectrum spends of about Rs 3,510 crore - almost 12 times its Rs 300 crore earnest money deposit (EMD) - on the heels of a recent fundraise of about Rs 23,000 crore suggests the telco is preparing for network rollouts and plans to use its fresh 900 MHz spectrum to enhance 4G experience and rein in customer losses.
Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel's returns on investment set to double in 4 years
Macquarie Research estimates Airtel's ROCE (return on capital employed) to surge to 10-19% during FY25-28 from 2-6% in the last more than a decade, aided by tariff hikes, better subscriber mix and capex moderation. Airtel had invested $32 billion in FY24, generating a return of 8%. Over the next four years, while investments will drop to $28 billion per year, returns will likely more than double to 19%, Macquarie data showed.
Airtel spends Rs 6,857 cr for 97 MHz of airwaves, mostly to renew permits; Jio picks up 14.4 MHz for Rs 973.62 cr
Airtel and Jio expand networks with new spectrum acquisitions, focusing on enhancing services for improved customer experience and increased coverage. Jio solidifies leadership position with the largest spectrum footprint, deploying advanced technologies for efficient bandwidth usage.
5G spectrum auctions: Bharti Airtel likely largest bidder, govt mops up around Rs 11,300 crore
India's second 5G spectrum auction concluded around Wednesday noon after seven rounds, lasting just over a day, with the government collecting approximately Rs 11,300 crore. Bharti Airtel is likely the largest bidder, acquiring airwaves in the sub-GHz 900 MHz band as well as in the 1800 and 2100 MHz bands. Market leader Reliance Jio likely bought 5G bandwidth in the 1800 MHz band.
Telcos bid for 5G worth ₹11,000 crore on first day of India's second spectrum sale
All three private carriers — Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea – are believed to have bid for sub-GHz (900 MHz) and select mid-band airwaves (1800 MHz, 2100 MHz) as they look to bolster their respective 5G spectrum holdings. High-band 5G airwaves in the 26 GHz band appear to have been given a miss on the opening day of the airwaves sale. In this year’s auction, the government has put 10.5 GHz of 5G spectrum in eight bands — 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3.3 GHz and 26 GHz — worth around Rs 96,238.45 crore at reserve prices on sale.
Auction of 5G spectrum worth over Rs 96,000 cr starts
India's second 5G spectrum auction began on June 25, 2024, with bids from Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. The auction, offering spectrum worth Rs 96,238 crore, excludes pricey sub-GHz bands. Analysts anticipate a low-key affair with modest government revenue, as telcos plan limited purchases.
5G auction: All you need to know about Rs 96,000 crore spectrum battle
5G auction: India is gearing up for its latest 5G airwaves auction starting Tuesday, valued at over Rs 96,000 crore. Telecom giants like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea will compete for crucial radio frequencies essential for 5G services. The previous auction in August 2022 set a record with the government earning Rs 1.5 lakh crore.
5G wave spectrum sale kicks off today
Private sector telecom operators Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea are set to compete for 5G airwaves worth about ₹96,320 crore in India's latest spectrum auction. The sale, expected to conclude soon, may see muted bidding with lower proceeds compared to the previous auction in 2022.
ET Graphics: A look at telecom industry's top carriers ahead of India's second 5G spectrum sale
India’s second 5G spectrum sale starts on Tuesday, featuring bids from top carriers Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi). This sale is expected to run for a day or a day-and-a-half and is anticipated to be a low-key affair. Only 10.5 GHz of 5G airwaves are available this time, significantly less than the 72 GHz offered in the country's first 5G spectrum auction in July 2022.
Rs 96,000-crore spectrum auction of 5G airwaves to kick off today
India's 5G airwaves auction starting Tuesday is expected to be subdued, with telecom giants having adequate holdings and low consumer 5G adoption. Analysts predict Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea will collectively spend around Rs 12,500 crore, focusing on renewals and selective acquisitions. Interest costs for deferred payments are higher this year, with Airtel likely to be the top spender.
What happens when telcos' DNS server is down
Internet outages in India on June 18 affected over 45,000 Reliance Jio users and 9,000 Bharti Airtel users due to DNS server downtime, impacting popular applications like WhatsApp and Facebook.
Meeting with PM Modi proved to be turning point for Bharti Airtel: Sunil Mittal
In September 2018, PM Narendra Modi's meeting with Sunil Bharti Mittal marked a turning point for Bharti Airtel amidst challenges from Reliance Jio. Mittal, GSMA chairman, highlighted the impact of Jio's free services and regulatory decisions on Airtel to PM Modi, seeking intervention.
More users uplinking to 5G coming with a cost: Lower download speeds
Opensignal's report highlights the impact of rapid 5G deployment in India, revealing a surge in data usage that has strained mobile networks and led to decreased download speeds. In the first quarter of 2024, Reliance Jio's average download speeds declined compared to a year ago, while Bharti Airtel's improved. The national 5G download speed decreased from 304 Mbps in Q1 2023 to 280.7 Mbps in Q4 2023 due to increased subscriber numbers and data traffic.
Vodafone Idea may find it tough to raise tariffs after polls, say analysts
Vodafone Idea faces challenges in increasing ARPU through tariff hikes post-election, as price-sensitive customers resist. 42% of Vi users may downgrade or close secondary SIMs due to upcoming higher tariffs. Vi seeks to upgrade 2G to 4G, double Ebitda by 2025. Vi has been securing funds for 4G expansion and potential 5G rollout.
Telco revenues surged to Rs 2.3 lakh crore in FY24: CLSA
The Indian telecom industry's gross revenue surged 87% to Rs 2.39 lakh crore in FY24, driven by the launch of services by Reliance Jio. Jio and Bharti Airtel gained subscribers at the expense of Vodafone Idea. The two top telcos now control 78% of sectoral revenue, expected to rise to 83% by FY26. Vi's revenue market share fell to 15.7%, while Airtel and Jio saw revenue growth, with Jio leading at 41.4% RMS.
Telecom sector revenue surges 87% to Rs 2.4 lk cr in FY24: Report
Telecom sector revenue in FY24 reached Rs 2,39,900 crore ($29 billion), an 87% increase from its FY19 low following Reliance Jio's market entry and about 40% higher than FY16 figures, according to a CLSA report. This surge reflects the continuing subscriber gains by Jio and Airtel at Vodafone Idea's expense, with Jio and Airtel now controlling 78% of the sector's revenue combined, a figure CLSA expects to rise to 83% by FY26.
Jio outpaces Airtel in 4G/5G user additions during April
Active, or visitor location register (VLR) data put out every month by Trai indicates the number of mobile users regularly using a mobile network. As a result, Jio’s active user base jumped to 433.42 million users, while Airtel and Vodafone Idea’s active user base declined to 383.32 million and 192.64 million users respectively.
Vi dials lenders for Rs 23,000 cr term loans, seeks Rs 10,000 cr in bank guarantees
Vodafone Idea (Vi) proposes borrowing Rs 23,000 crore in term loans and seeks Rs 10,000 crore in bank guarantees to enhance its telecom infrastructure and compete with Reliance Jio and Airtel.
Jio’s technology & telecom industry collaboration with TM Forum saw 80% surge in resource contribution from members: Akash Ambani
ChatGPTReliance Jio has collaborated with TM Forum to enhance technological advancements in the telecom industry, notably through the Innovation Hub in Mumbai. Akash Ambani, chairman of Reliance Jio, highlighted an 80% increase in resource contributions from members since the Hub's launch in September. He emphasized progress in generative AI and the Open Digital Architecture (ODA), along with the addition of new members like Microsoft.
Telco EMDs for June 5G sale lowest since 2014 auction: Analysts
India's top telcos submit low earnest money deposits (EMDs) for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, marking the lowest since 2014. Analysts suggest selective bidding, foreseeing maximum spectrum demand of $2.5 billion, far below previous auctions. Reliance Jio leads EMDs; Airtel and Vi likely focus on renewals and selective bidding for 5G rollout.
Under govt pressure, telcos begin trials of caller ID display service to curb spam calls
Telecom operators have started trials for caller ID services in Mumbai and Haryana following pressure from the government and TRAI. The CNAP service aims to display the caller's name during incoming calls to curb spam and fraud calls.
Sanjay Mashruwala resigns as Managing Director of Reliance Jio
Sanjay Mashruwala, 76, resigns as managing director at Reliance Jio on June 9. Pankaj Mohan Pawar continues. Board appreciates his contributions to the company's transformative journey since 2013.
Vodafone Idea prefers stock as payment for Nokia and Ericsson bills
The board of directors of VIL approved a preferential allotment of 1.66 billion equity shares at Rs 14.80 per share to Finland’s Nokia and Sweden’s Ericsson, for a total of up to Rs 2,458 crore, the company said in a statement Thursday. Nokia will invest up to Rs 1,520 crore and Ericsson up to Rs 938 crore. The issue price is 35% higher than that in the April follow-on offer (FPO) of Rs 11 a share and comes with a lock-in period of six months.
Jio-SES JV Orbit Connect gets IN-SPACe authorisation to enter satcom space
Orbit Connect India, a joint venture between Reliance Jio Platforms and SES, has obtained crucial landing rights and market access authorizations from IN-SPACe, India's space regulator. This move positions Jio against Bharti Enterprises-backed Eutelsat OneWeb, Elon Musk's Starlink, and Amazon's Kuiper in India's satellite communications sector. Jio is also seeking trial satellite spectrum from the DoT for advanced trials on its nationwide satellite broadband network, aiming for an early allocation to begin trials.
Prioritise 6 GHz spectrum for 5G, roll out fair share data network usage norm: COAI to government
COAI emphasizes the need for massive spectrum resources like Bharat 6G Alliance and Vision for 6G innovations and deployment.
Bidding wars back? Reliance Jio move signals a spectrum of possibilities
Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio leads with a Rs 3,000 crore deposit for the June spectrum auction, while Airtel and Vi follow with Rs 1,050 crore and Rs 300 crore, respectively. Despite no license renewals, Jio's hefty deposit earns it top eligibility points. The auction targets Rs 96,317.65 crore in 5G airwaves.
Modi 3.0: Industry seeks roadmap to cement India's lead in global digital arena, vows support
The Digital Infrastructure Providers Association (DIPA) has expressed full support for India's digital and telecom transformation under the new government, emphasising the need for a clear roadmap to solidify the country's leadership in digital infrastructure. DIPA highlighted the success of initiatives like Digital India and PM WiFi Access Network in enabling broad digital adoption, with Director General Tilak Raj Dua stressing the industry's readiness to collaborate with the government.
SMS makes a strong comeback as global firms shift away from WhatsApp
Global tech firms like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have returned to using SMS OTPs in India after Meta's WhatsApp changed pricing and norms for international authentication messages. This has led to a 50-70% increase in monthly international SMS volume for telecom operators in India since March.
Reliance Jio and Airtel's net worth surges ahead of 5G auction; Vodafone Idea struggles
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel's net worth has seen significant improvements since the last spectrum auction in August 2022, while Vodafone Idea's negative net worth has widened. The upcoming auction on June 6 will see the three telecom players competing for Rs 96,317.65 crore worth of 5G airwaves. Reliance Jio's net worth as of March 31, 2023, was Rs 2,15,992 crore, Airtel's net worth rose to Rs 86,260 crore by December 31, 2023, and Vodafone Idea's net worth registered a negative of Rs 1,16,886 crore.
Spectrum sale: Limited airwaves, huge investments discourage new entrants, say analysts
Analysts point to a lack of spectrum availability in key bands, coupled with high initial investment requirements of $16 billion for 5G airwaves and network rollouts, as key reasons why no new bidders have applied for the upcoming spectrum auction in Kolkata. Existing operators like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have already deployed countrywide 5G networks, further deterring new entrants due to the significant costs involved.
Reliance Jio Q4 Results: PAT jumps 13% YoY to Rs 5,337 crore, meets Street estimates
Reliance Jio Q4 Results: The revenue for the reported quarter stood at Rs 25,959 crore versus ETNOW poll of Rs 26,000 crore. The profit after tax was up by 2.4% over Rs 5,208 crore reported in the December ended quarter. The average revenue per user (ARPU) for the quarter stood at Rs 181.7 million, which was same as the last quarter while going 1.6% up over the corresponding period of last financial year.
Reliance Jio, Airtel and Vodafone Idea submit applications for upcoming Rs 96,317 crore spectrum auction
India's three private telecom operators, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, are set to bid for a piece of 5G spectrum worth Rs 96,317.65 crore in the next auction, set to start on June 6. The auction will cover airwaves in various bands, with the government expected to make some selective buying. The auction is expected to be a muted affair, with top telcos having sufficient 5G airwaves for their current needs.
Vodafone Idea must clear Indus Towers dues to avail tower company's new services: Sunil Mittal
Bharti Airtel chairman Sunil Mittal emphasized that Vodafone Idea must settle all past dues with Indus Towers to access new services like 5G. However, Mittal mentioned that the Indus board will remain flexible with its decisions even if Vi makes a significant payment and provides a schedule for the remaining amount. Airtel is a major stakeholder in Indus Towers.
Reliance Jio Q4 Results: Net profit rises 3% QoQ to Rs 5,307 crore
Jio Infocomm numbers were spot on to analyst estimates, which pegged the company's net profit at Rs 5,308 crore as per an average of estimates compiled by ET. The Mukesh Ambani-led telco’s March quarter revenue from operations came in 2.3% higher sequentially at Rs 30,541 crore compared to Rs 29,853 crore in the fiscal third quarter and Rs 27,539 crore a year ago.
5G adoption on a roll in India, yet tariff upside may be minimal: India Ratings
India's 5G subscriber base is expected to rise to 20-25% within a year, but significant tariff hikes remain uncertain, says Ind-Ra. While telcos are better positioned for tariff increases, global trends show no major premium for 5G over 4G. Ind-Ra maintains a neutral sector outlook, noting investment peaks and potential market share shifts towards Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.
Mukesh Ambani's fintech juggernaut starts rolling: The road ahead
Ambani's latest fintech business under Jio Financial Servics Ltd (JFSL) aims to ride on extensive consumer network as well the data Reliance has acquired. The tracks that consumers leave while shopping and using Reliance products and services will form a strong databank for JFSL.
DoT dials cops to stop network gear theft
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a directive to tackle rampant theft of critical network gear causing Rs 800 crore losses for telcos, disrupting 4G/5G expansions and affecting mobile coverage quality.
Airtel's $100b market capitalisation reflects a stable economy under a solid leader: Sunil Mittal
Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, emphasized that Airtel's resurgence post the challenges posed by Reliance Jio's entry and the AGR ruling showcased India's stable economy and supportive policies under strong leadership. Reflecting on Airtel's path to the $100-billion milestone, Mittal highlighted the company's resilience amidst industry disruptions. He noted that Airtel's achievement as the first-generation Indian company to reach this milestone was significant, especially considering the competitive landscape.
Airtel likely to be biggest 5G spectrum buyer in June 6 sale: Analysts
Bharti Airtel is expected to increase its sub-GHz airwave holdings in the 900 MHz band across multiple circles in the upcoming spectrum auction, potentially becoming the top buyer despite Reliance Jio submitting the highest earnest money deposit (EMD). Airtel aims to bolster its rural mobile broadband coverage by enhancing its low-band airwaves arsenal. While Jio leads in sub-GHz spectrum holdings, Airtel's recent focus on rural expansion and improved financial position suggests significant investments in 900 MHz spectrum across 12 circles.
