Fitch Ratings has today said in a just published report that the 2010 outlook for the overall Asia-Pacific telecom sector remains stable. "Most operators will be able to continue to weather any adverse economic conditions and maintain their credit profiles thanks to robust liquidity, relatively low gearing, and strong free cash flow (FCF) generation," says Matt Jamieson, Senior Director and Head of Fitch's Asia Pacific Telecoms Media and Technology team. Although competitive factors look set to drive revenue growth and margins lower in 2010E, curtailed capital expenditure budgets are likely to result in higher FCF generation for the average Asia-Pacific telecom operator.
Fitch expects top-line revenues for the 23 telecom operators it rates across Asia Pacific to rise by an average of only 2.7% in 2010E, which, although up from the prior year, is well below 2008's 7.7%. "Whereas average revenue growth has historically remained above GDP growth, the sector appears to have reached an inflexion point in 2009 - with average revenue growth below the weighted average Asia-Pacific country GDP growth of 1.9%," adds Mr. Jamieson. "While the economic downturn may play a small part, rising penetration levels and tariff-discounting in emerging markets, including China India, Indonesia and Thailand, are the more important factors keeping a lid on the average telecom operator's revenue growth in 2010," adds Mr. Jamieson.
The average EBITDA margin for Asia-Pacific telecom operators is estimated to have fallen to 38.9% in 2009E from 40.2% in 2008, and the agency anticipates that ongoing competitive pressures will result in a further decline to 38.0% in 2010E. Cash flow from operations (CFO) remains strong; and with aggregate capex likely to fall (particularly in Australia, China, India and Indonesia), the agency expects a 61% increase in aggregate FCF generation during 2010. However the agency forecasts the median operator among the 23 to generate slightly negative FCF; and, in conjunction with falling EBITDA margins, Fitch feels that the median leverage ratio (as measured by adjusted net debt/EBITDAR) will actually increase to 1.7x (2009: 1.5x).
While credit metrics may deteriorate slightly in 2010, Fitch believes that, in general, most operators' financial profiles will remain comfortable for their current rating levels.
The report, entitled "Asia Pacific Telecoms Credit Outlook 2010", is now available on the agency's website, www.fitchratings.com. The report also contains 11 one-page country summary outlooks covering the major credit issues for the agency's rated telecom issuers across the region.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
AIS ANNOUNCES 2010 VISION ON TELECOMS INDUSTRY INTRODUCING THE CONCEPT “ECOSYSTEM,”
AIS ANNOUNCES 2010 VISION ON TELECOMS INDUSTRY INTRODUCING THE CONCEPT “ECOSYSTEM,” COOPERATION, DEPENDENCE AND GROWTH TOGETHER FOR HIGHEST BENEFIT OF THAI PEOPLE
AIS announces 2010 Vision on Telecoms Industry, introducing the concept Ecosystem - the ecosystem of communication world gearing towards synergy, dependence and growth together, delivering highest benefits to every group of Thai consumers, riding the trend of communication technology convergence featuring “Total Communication.”
The management team of Advanced Info Service (Public) Co., Ltd., led by Mr. Somprasong Boonyachai, Vice Chairman Of The Board Mr. Wichian Mektrakarn, CEO and Mr. Somchai Lertsuttiwong, EVP Marketing, co-host the public conference on the overall picture of telecoms industry and AIS direction emphasizing orchestrated cooperation with alliance just like the ecosystem.
In 2009, the telecom usage of Thai people recorded a significant growth, particularly in mobile Internet, wireless Internet and Broadband Internet, reflecting consumer behavior obviously switching to convergence service. They use mobile phone to call, connect Internet, watch TV, download music, upload photos or videos to Social Network and Chat through BlackBerry. This formulates a “Total Communication.” AIS has developed service in tandem with such behavior. Besides retaining No. 1 Mobile Operator, today AIS plays increasing roles as;
- Largest distribution channel of Digital Music with over 20 million downloads, 60% of which represent the download through Call Center.
- Largest Internet Service Provider (ISP) with over 6.5 million Mobile Phone Internet users
- Pioneer of Lifestyle for consumers in entering the experience of Mobile Email, Social Networking through Smart Phone such as BlackBerry occupying over 100,000 users.
- Market builder for Wireless Internet by launching AIS Aircard serving over 300,000 customers, or over 20% of Internet use in Thailand.
Mr. Somprasong unveiled “For the year 2010, demand and usage behavior will remain the same as in the past year. More concentration and enhancement will be placed in Mobile Internet, Broadband and download service via wireless network. To deliver services that completely meet demand, every part associated with telecommunication industry need to capitalize on its best resource to work in harmony and proceed together in the orchestrated uniform, depend on each other and promote Seamless Connection featuring Ecosystem – the Ecosystem of communication world in an effort to creating collaborative service providing optimal solution for consumers as well as contributing to the reinforcement of country’s telecoms industry.
With regard to the composition of Ecosystem, Mr. Wichian added “Initially, we look into 5 integral parts including Device, Customer Assistant, Content Partners, Solution Partners and Business Alliances from a broad spectrum of industry. The collaboration incorporated by the proposed concept is believed to liberate the frame of telecommunication services, give unexpected experience from best quality, enhance business management efficiency and render privileges upgrading living standard of consumers.”
“However, to ensure the unsurpassed services provided by strong commitment, network quality serves as the key and solid fundamentals. Over the past 20 years, AIS has ceaselessly developed its network recognized as “Most trusted network” as a result of service coverage coming with network quality as well as convergence of Wireless and Wired-line technology. Lately, AIS is considered the only Mobile Operator offering widest 3G service area following the cooperation with TOT (Public) Co., Ltd., the Concession Owner. AIS customers have options to access wireless Internet service via EDGE/GPRS network embracing nationwide coverage and 3G of 900 MHz and 2100 MHz frequency”
Mr. Somchai stressed the benefits of consumers “When the fundamentals are well prepared, the functionalities based on Ecosystem will continue productively, shape service formats and fuel the growth of telecommunications industry due to the harmonious and balanced living of all parties. For example, the marketing of communication device will include not only the sourcing of superb handsets for customers, but also the synergy between Service Providers tailoring service packages and customized contents as well as solutions that bring ultimately exclusive experiences. This exemplifies how the working concept is materialized.”
In the AIS Vision 2010, AIS introduces some services from the cooperation with Partners, such as;
1. Nokia N900, the latest Smart Phone from Nokia that allows AIS customers to gain great experience from Internet Application and bundling package
2. BlackBerry New Bold, the latest innovation from BlackBerry, available for reservation today
3. AIS 3G Aircard 7 Mbps, the fastest Wireless Broadband connection to the Internet
4. AIS App Store connecting AIS customers to the unlimited world of Contents coming with a broad array of Applications to choose from
5. MSN SIM, a direct connection to MSN from your handsets
6. Mobile Pay wave Actual creating Contactless Mobile Payment Service
7. Variety Superior Privilege from various exclusive for AIS customer only
“As the Total Telecoms Service Leader, we strongly believe in the power of all players related to this industry and will be ready to play an intermediary role in rendering best services from the collaboration under the concept Ecosystem to every group of consumers. Not only will this paradigm shift benefit people, but also propel sustainable growth of Thai telecommunications industry.”
AIS announces 2010 Vision on Telecoms Industry, introducing the concept Ecosystem - the ecosystem of communication world gearing towards synergy, dependence and growth together, delivering highest benefits to every group of Thai consumers, riding the trend of communication technology convergence featuring “Total Communication.”
The management team of Advanced Info Service (Public) Co., Ltd., led by Mr. Somprasong Boonyachai, Vice Chairman Of The Board Mr. Wichian Mektrakarn, CEO and Mr. Somchai Lertsuttiwong, EVP Marketing, co-host the public conference on the overall picture of telecoms industry and AIS direction emphasizing orchestrated cooperation with alliance just like the ecosystem.
In 2009, the telecom usage of Thai people recorded a significant growth, particularly in mobile Internet, wireless Internet and Broadband Internet, reflecting consumer behavior obviously switching to convergence service. They use mobile phone to call, connect Internet, watch TV, download music, upload photos or videos to Social Network and Chat through BlackBerry. This formulates a “Total Communication.” AIS has developed service in tandem with such behavior. Besides retaining No. 1 Mobile Operator, today AIS plays increasing roles as;
- Largest distribution channel of Digital Music with over 20 million downloads, 60% of which represent the download through Call Center.
- Largest Internet Service Provider (ISP) with over 6.5 million Mobile Phone Internet users
- Pioneer of Lifestyle for consumers in entering the experience of Mobile Email, Social Networking through Smart Phone such as BlackBerry occupying over 100,000 users.
- Market builder for Wireless Internet by launching AIS Aircard serving over 300,000 customers, or over 20% of Internet use in Thailand.
Mr. Somprasong unveiled “For the year 2010, demand and usage behavior will remain the same as in the past year. More concentration and enhancement will be placed in Mobile Internet, Broadband and download service via wireless network. To deliver services that completely meet demand, every part associated with telecommunication industry need to capitalize on its best resource to work in harmony and proceed together in the orchestrated uniform, depend on each other and promote Seamless Connection featuring Ecosystem – the Ecosystem of communication world in an effort to creating collaborative service providing optimal solution for consumers as well as contributing to the reinforcement of country’s telecoms industry.
With regard to the composition of Ecosystem, Mr. Wichian added “Initially, we look into 5 integral parts including Device, Customer Assistant, Content Partners, Solution Partners and Business Alliances from a broad spectrum of industry. The collaboration incorporated by the proposed concept is believed to liberate the frame of telecommunication services, give unexpected experience from best quality, enhance business management efficiency and render privileges upgrading living standard of consumers.”
“However, to ensure the unsurpassed services provided by strong commitment, network quality serves as the key and solid fundamentals. Over the past 20 years, AIS has ceaselessly developed its network recognized as “Most trusted network” as a result of service coverage coming with network quality as well as convergence of Wireless and Wired-line technology. Lately, AIS is considered the only Mobile Operator offering widest 3G service area following the cooperation with TOT (Public) Co., Ltd., the Concession Owner. AIS customers have options to access wireless Internet service via EDGE/GPRS network embracing nationwide coverage and 3G of 900 MHz and 2100 MHz frequency”
Mr. Somchai stressed the benefits of consumers “When the fundamentals are well prepared, the functionalities based on Ecosystem will continue productively, shape service formats and fuel the growth of telecommunications industry due to the harmonious and balanced living of all parties. For example, the marketing of communication device will include not only the sourcing of superb handsets for customers, but also the synergy between Service Providers tailoring service packages and customized contents as well as solutions that bring ultimately exclusive experiences. This exemplifies how the working concept is materialized.”
In the AIS Vision 2010, AIS introduces some services from the cooperation with Partners, such as;
1. Nokia N900, the latest Smart Phone from Nokia that allows AIS customers to gain great experience from Internet Application and bundling package
2. BlackBerry New Bold, the latest innovation from BlackBerry, available for reservation today
3. AIS 3G Aircard 7 Mbps, the fastest Wireless Broadband connection to the Internet
4. AIS App Store connecting AIS customers to the unlimited world of Contents coming with a broad array of Applications to choose from
5. MSN SIM, a direct connection to MSN from your handsets
6. Mobile Pay wave Actual creating Contactless Mobile Payment Service
7. Variety Superior Privilege from various exclusive for AIS customer only
“As the Total Telecoms Service Leader, we strongly believe in the power of all players related to this industry and will be ready to play an intermediary role in rendering best services from the collaboration under the concept Ecosystem to every group of consumers. Not only will this paradigm shift benefit people, but also propel sustainable growth of Thai telecommunications industry.”
Sunday, January 17, 2010
dtac responds to the social networking trend by preparing dtac Internet especially to serve New Year greetings
Pakorn Pannachet, Head of dtac’s VAS Division, said dtac prepared its nationwide network to support traffic during the New Year. dtac realizes that the 3 main social networking systems namely Facebook, Twitter and BBM (BlackBerry Messaging) are the very quickly accelerating trend of 2009 while SMS and MMS are still gaining in popularity compared with last year.
“We have seen the increasing use of smart phones throughout this year. At present dtac customers use 400,000-500,000 smart phones and we believe that New Year greetings via smart phones should focus on social networking especially through Facebook and Twitter. In Thailand about 1.7 million people are using Facebook and about 60,000 people are doing Twitter. For the dtac customers who uses dtac’s BlackBerry Service, we have prepared our network to support more convenient and faster BBM use in Thailand through dtac Internet.”
“SMS and MMS should not be less popular than they were in the past years. We expect New Year greetings via SMS to increase from 49.95 million messages last year to about 65-70 million messages and those via MMS should rise from 656,000 messages last year to about 800,000-1 million messages. dtac has prepared its systems to support the transmission of 7,500 messages per second, up from the normal capacity of 2,000 messages per second. So customers are assured that dtac’s network can meet their demands limitlessly,” Pakorn said.
Besides, dtac has also prepared its network by increasing channel capacities at New Year celebration venues in major provinces of all regions. For Bangkok, it has prepared mobile units and increased the capacities of base stations to serve communication traffic surges in several areas including bus terminals, airports and highways leading to other provinces.
“We have seen the increasing use of smart phones throughout this year. At present dtac customers use 400,000-500,000 smart phones and we believe that New Year greetings via smart phones should focus on social networking especially through Facebook and Twitter. In Thailand about 1.7 million people are using Facebook and about 60,000 people are doing Twitter. For the dtac customers who uses dtac’s BlackBerry Service, we have prepared our network to support more convenient and faster BBM use in Thailand through dtac Internet.”
“SMS and MMS should not be less popular than they were in the past years. We expect New Year greetings via SMS to increase from 49.95 million messages last year to about 65-70 million messages and those via MMS should rise from 656,000 messages last year to about 800,000-1 million messages. dtac has prepared its systems to support the transmission of 7,500 messages per second, up from the normal capacity of 2,000 messages per second. So customers are assured that dtac’s network can meet their demands limitlessly,” Pakorn said.
Besides, dtac has also prepared its network by increasing channel capacities at New Year celebration venues in major provinces of all regions. For Bangkok, it has prepared mobile units and increased the capacities of base stations to serve communication traffic surges in several areas including bus terminals, airports and highways leading to other provinces.
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