Vodafone Idea’s ‘big’ spectrum spend to help plug user exodus

KOLKATA: Vodafone Idea’s higher-than-expected spends in the just-concluded 5G spectrum auction is set to bolster the telco’s networks and stem market share shifts towards stronger rivals Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, paving the way for much-delayed tariff hikes this fiscal, analysts said.

They added that Vi’s spectrum spends of about Rs 3,510 crore — almost 12 times its Rs 300 crore earnest money deposit (EMD) — on the heels of a recent fundraise of about Rs 23,000 crore suggests the telco is preparing for network rollouts and plans to use its fresh 900 MHz spectrum to enhance 4G experience and rein in customer losses.