Telstra acquires Pacific telecom in joint venture with government

Published

3 years ago

October 25, 2021

The Australian government and telecom giant Telstra are buying Digicel’s Pacific telecom arm in a $2.1 billion deal

Digicel Pacific employs almost two thousand people, and services a number of Pacific nations including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Tahiti.

The future of the firm has been the focus of speculation for several months.

Last year, Digicel denied reports that it was in talks to sell its Pacific arm to state-owned China Mobile after running into serious financial trouble.

Telstra in a statement have called the deal a “unique and very attractive commercial opportunity to boost our presence in the region”.

Analysts, however, are calling the purchase a strategic move, with the Australian government ramping up its presence in the Pacific amid rising tensions with China.

The government has long held national security concerns over efforts by Chinese state-owned telecoms to assert authority in the Pacific.

Earlier this year, the Morrison government held private talks with the Biden administration about working together to stop China buying Digicel’s mobile phone networks in the Pacific and Caribbean.

Boeing’s financial turbulence leads to bold cash-raising moves

Published

6 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Ahron Young

Company eyes new credit and shares to survive as strikes and delays weigh the company down

Boeing is taking drastic steps to secure its future, seeking to raise at least $10 billion by selling new shares and securing a fresh credit line.

The iconic manufacturer has been struggling this year with major setbacks, including a 737 MAX mishap in January and a machinist strike that halted production.

In filings made Tuesday, Boeing revealed plans to issue up to $25 billion in shares or debt over the next three years while locking in a $10 billion credit deal.

Sources say the company will aim to raise around $10 billion from its upcoming stock offering.

Boeing called the moves “prudent steps” to ensure access to liquidity as it faces growing financial challenges.

Its stock, which began the year at $250, rose 2% to about $152 after the announcement, as analysts expressed relief over Boeing’s efforts to stabilize its cash flow.

The machinist strike, which started last month, has intensified the company’s cash problems, with Boeing burning through $1 billion per month before the walkout.

Boeing hasn’t posted a profit since 2018, and the coming months will be critical as it battles to recover.

China has pledged to “significantly increase” debt to jumpstart its economy

Published

2 days ago

October 14, 2024

ticker NEWS

Finance Minister Lan Foan announced plans to help local governments tackle debt, support low-income households, and boost the property market.

Investors have been urging such steps as China faces deflationary pressures and a sharp property market downturn.

However, no figure was provided for the stimulus package, leaving markets anxious about the strength and duration of the recovery effort.

Economists warn that this lack of clarity may prolong uncertainty until China’s legislature approves extra debt measures.

Concerns are rising that China may fall short of its 5% growth target, signalling deeper structural challenges ahead.

Leaders

Niche accountants proving essential to e-commerce success

Published

1 week ago

October 9, 2024

ticker NEWS

Expert explores the key benefits of partnering with accountants who specialise in niche industries.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, having an accountant who understands the intricacies of e-commerce can make all the difference in your business’s success.

Specialist accountants understand the specific needs of e-commerce businesses, helping to maximise tax savings, streamline operations, and improve financial health.

Niche accountants can identify opportunities to scale, optimise profit margins, and implement strategies that align with your business goals, ultimately drive growth.

Chris Rivera, Founder of The Ecommerce Accountants, joins to share his key insights into the industry.

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