All TelcoTitans.com articles in BTwatch #317
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Network & InfrastructureMBNL embraces machine learning for predictive maintenance
JV working with Kortical, Blue Prism, and Greenhouse Intelligence. Algorithms predict mast cooling system failures to prevent overheating and outages.
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PremiumBT Enterprise dials down on B2B costs
BT Enterprise flags more cost-cutting measures are being implemented as COVID-19 disruption adds to the broader challenges it faces in the digital era. As ever, partner and supplier consolidation and change is part of the plan. CEO Jansen presents enterprise 5G as bright spot amid gloom.
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Digital ReportsBTwatch Report #317 – November 2020
Key stories include: Transformation drives opex down | Dublin Hub for ProcureCo | Ericsson now also RAN | Convergence IT challenge | BT links with Alibaba
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Venturing & InvestmentsSeed investment planted in BT procurement partner Paid
Multi-source investment boosts fintech solutions provider. Clear upward trajectory since its infancy, as Group CPO waxes lyrical about Paid solutions, amid recent macroeconomic turmoil.
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Suppliers & SCMBT procurement relocating to Dublin
Group CPO Pourrat energising procurement transformation with a new standalone business. Move to Dublin officially linked to city’s Big Tech hub, but Brexit bridge may also prove useful. White-collar union Prospect “dismayed” by the plans.
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PremiumBT people moves: former CEOs take roles elsewhere
Ex-CEOs at BT Germany, Global Solutions, and Ireland appointed in new positions. Leadership change at ex-BT Ventures units. New legal roles across the Group.
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Products & ServicesBT dials up Zoom
Global taps into growing popularity of the video conferencing service.
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Strategy & ChangeCWU plots against BT transformation plans
Union’s Bonfire Night declaration promises fireworks as BT attempts to simplify processes linked to redundancies. BT management under opposing pressure from investors to move more quickly to reduce headcount.
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PremiumBT Group Q2 FY20–21
Revenue and profit keep falling in pandemic. COVID-19 creates noise and uncertainty, but BT is pushing its transformation story, asking for patience as stakeholders get twitchy. Openreach a lone bright spot, although Global may be benefitting from long-term recovery strategy. An improved earnings forecast at BT is not expected ...
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Financial & PerformanceOpenreach fibre thrives but volume deal prospects fade
A strong quarter and half-year for the access services business demonstrates building momentum for fibre services in the face of the pandemic. Anticipated long-term volume deals may not materialise, but associated competitive pressure may help BT arguments on the need for a ‘fair bet’ from Ofcom.
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PremiumBT spend: opex coming down, capex still building to peak
Simplified systems are bringing efficiency but lower trading giving an unwanted helping hand. Capex rising, but a sharp decline is anticipated with copper switch-off.
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PremiumBT guidance: EBITDA recovery on horizon, sales rise fainter
Two more years of revenue decline ahead, but EBITDA improving and underpinning investment plans.
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PremiumMargins slip as BT Consumer pursues quality
Another tough COVID-19-impacted quarter but management playing the long game, with a focus on premium services. Network investment continuing as division seeks an uplift from next-generation platforms. BT reputation improving, but weaknesses remain outside core products, necessitating dual-brand approach. Commercial partnerships remain a key strategic element, but hit to ...
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PremiumBT Global braces for more COVID-19 headwinds
Precipitous revenue declines continue for Global as pandemic makes its presence felt, but mitigation measures and ongoing transformation ease the pain on profit levels. Growing underlying strength of division offers hope beyond an anticipated tough second half.
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Network & InfrastructureLowth downplays tower monetisation benefits
BT is continuing to buck the trend of creating TowerCos as it continues to value control over infrastructure assets.
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M&ABT Global wraps up French exit
French infrastructure business bought by IT group said to generate in region of £100m in annual revenue. BT keen to highlight it will maintain a presence in France, with 60 major customers active on the country.
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Network & InfrastructureEricsson joins Nokia in 5G RAN mix
Swedish supplier claims it will handle 50% of EE’s 5G traffic. Vendor stockpiles antennas ahead of Brexit to meet projected UK demand. BT’s Watson talks optimistically about reshaping networks for the future in the absence of Huawei.
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Financial & PerformanceBT cash to take a hit on Brexit and Huexit stockpiling
An improved earnings forecast at BT is not expected to generate more cash as the operator buys up Huawei gear ahead of the 5G ban. Ericsson highlights its own efforts to ensure it can meet BT’s needs in uncertain times ahead.
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Strategy & ChangeBT deploys bot to get top techies talking
“Robotic speed dating” sessions among changes being made in a bid to build better connections within Group’s technology leadership. BT getting creative as it grapples with change agenda.
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Network & InfrastructureBT to parachute 5G onto Irish port
Former BT testbed to experience 5G’s full potential. Industry 4.0 applications to be given get-go in multi-purpose setting. BT adding to its private network portfolio.