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4 things to expect from telecom sector in 2014 [Telecom] [Times of India](Times of India Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Will the New Year be any different for the telecom sector? According to analysts, companies can expect much-needed regulatory clarity on key issues of spectrum trading, refarming and mergers and acquisitons, moves that could bring in new investments and improve sentiment. Gulveen Aulakh looks at the road ahead ... Tariffs may rise High spectrum price and expansion of 3G/ 4G services will lead to higher data and voice tariffs in 2014 Mobile phone companies to withdraw promotional packages in bid to cut costs Voice minutes will continue to stagnate Data main driver as technology improves Data will drive revenue, driven by increased adoption of 3G, fixed broadband and 4G and growing number of smartphones, tablets and other connected devices and use of social media apps and mobile video 4G ecosystem to grow as more players launch services; LTE trials in the liberalised 1800 MHz band likely Wi-Fi rollouts by major operators may facilitate data growth but challenges remain with introducing localised content Regulatory clarity Indian regulators to bring in more clarity on spectrum trading, usage charges, re-farming and merger and acquisitions M&As likely if govt supports consolidation. This could improve investor sentiment Consolidation will gain momentum among telecom tower companies as operators reduce costs Increased likelihood of some operators buying stakes in other players across numerous circles New business Enterprise players to increase focus on tieups with telecom cos for healthcare, logistics and fi nancial services solutions (c) 2013 Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited |