M1

Keppel says the discussions are part of its efforts to explore consolidation opportunities for M1

They say that consolidation has to be among the mobile network operators, not just the virtual operators

This follows renewed expectations of a deal between Singapore’s second and third-largest mobile operators

Some operators have retired their older 5G networks, while Simba has yet to announce a timeline for completing the shift to standalone services

Analysts are mixed on the counter after the news

This comes after conditions for the transaction were not met by the extended long-stop date

Group also mulling Reit IPO to create ‘permanent capital pools’ for longer-term investments; comments come on heels of failed M1-Simba deal

A rollback to a three-player market is inevitable; the tragedy is how difficult the exit has become

The setback is expected to weigh on Keppel, which had planned to monetise M1 through the deal