TPSA and GTS Energis have signed the first inter-operator agreement for wholesale rental of broadband internet access in the TPSA network, which enables Energis to provide internet access services. The framework agreement complies with the regulatory requirements imposed on TP by the UKE to open up its network to wholesale operators. Although the rate at which the framework agreement has not been divulged, we assume that the naked DSL lines would be sold at a 51% discount to TP’s retail price, in line with the UKE’s recent decision. We also believe that GTS will sell the lines on to its customers, as well as TPSA’s customers, in the corporate segment.
Our view: We would expect a marginal near-term negative reaction to the news for TPSA since this is the first announcement following the deregulation. However, we believe that once the initial wave of newsflow regarding new rates is digested, TPSA should trade back closer to our PLN 25 fair value, which already incorporates all the recently introduced rate cuts by the UKE. On the other hand, we believe that longer term, the developments are more negative for Netia, as this facilitates more rapid competition amongst the alternative operators especially in the corporate segment. Additionally, the new regulatory measures on bitstream access reduces the attractiveness of Netia’s WiMax proposition. We maintain our Buy rating on TPSA and Sell recommendation on Netia.