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Not just 5G spectrum, even 700 MHz band auction may find few takers

Analysts at rating agency ICRA feel the debt level of the telecom companies is very high and the ecosystem for the premium band is not in place

The other side of 5G sale: High base price, lesser spectrum a worry

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According to industry estimates, Vodafone Idea has 1,650 MHz spectrum and 340 million users; Bharti Airtel has 1,500 MHz and 320 million subscribers; and Reliance Jio has 1,100 MHz spectrum and 350 million users.

Megha Manchanda New Delhi

4 min read Last Updated : Oct 07 2019 | 1:56 AM IST

Forget 5G spectrum. Even the premium 700 megahertz (MHz) band may find few takers in the upcoming spectrum auctions since the network equipment and handset compatibility with the premium band are not in place, not to mention the highly leveraged companies shying away from further investments.

Analysts at rating agency ICRA say the debt level of the telecom companies is very high and the ecosystem for the premium band is not in place. It is best, therefore, to expect scant interest in the sale of airwaves in the 700 MHz band.

“The balance sheets of the telecom companies have to

Topics : 5G Spectrum auction 5G spectrum

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