Valuation of spectrum in the 2600 MHz band

Following a spectrum transaction in New Zealand, Spark required an updated value of its 2600 MHz spectrum holdings for use in its statutory accounts. Plum undertook a benchmarking exercise using its extensive database of international auction results, making adjustments for national income and licence periods. We then provided Spark with a guide on how results[…]

Digital Sovereignty: the overlap and conflict between states, enterprise and citizens

Digital sovereignty is an umbrella term that refers to the ability to exercise control over digital assets, such as data, content or digital infrastructure, or over the use of those assets. While this concept has arguably existed for decades, it has gained a new currency for a number of reasons, including concerns about state surveillance,[…]

Not just the economy, stupid: a holistic approach to spectrum assignment

Sustainable economic growth requires an interplay between all domains of a country’s structural organisation – that is, its politics, its economy, and its society. Government and regulatory policy need to take account of all of these domains for it to be optimal. However, in several important areas, these interconnections are not accounted for – this[…]

Not just the economy, stupid: a holistic approach to spectrum assignment

Sustainable economic growth requires an interplay between all domains of a country’s structural organisation – that is, its politics, its economy, and its society. Government and regulatory policy need to take account of all of these domains for it to be optimal. However, in several important areas, these interconnections are not accounted for – this[…]

5G spectrum valuation and auction support in Taiwan

Plum, working with the Telecom Technology Center, supported the National Communications Commission on the 5G auction in Taiwan which concluded in February 2020. The work included a review of the auction design and rules, and the valuation of the 1800 MHz, 3.5 GHz and 28 GHz bands to inform on the appropriate reserve prices. The[…]

Road to 5G: calibrating the right environment for Digital India

With the 5G era just around the corner, policymakers around the world have outlined ambitious national objectives for the digital economy. Specific targets are often set for the underpinning infrastructure and India is no exception. The India mobile industry has experienced a series of challenges in recent times – from a protracted price war, market[…]

Digital government in Africa: promoting inclusivity and sustainability

The benefits of digital government in developing countries are experienced more at an individual level rather than at an aggregate level. This paper provides African examples of the benefits delivered through improved performance and of enhanced transparency. Developing countries can better reap the benefits of digital governments by implementing more inclusive and sustainable projects. This[…]

UK wireless regulation and strategy support

Plum was engaged by a leading fibre network telco operator in the UK, to review the threats and opportunities brought with developing wireless technologies such as fixed wireless access, mesh networks, and cellular systems including 5G. Our work included a review of both technology and commercial developments in the UK wireless market, and a corresponding[…]

Spectrum allocation practices research

Plum conducted a research study for the Australian regulator ACMA to examine the international practices on the award of high-value spectrum, particularly for mobile use. The research covered a variety of award mechanisms adopted by regulators in other jurisdictions, including auctions, comparative tenders, administrative awards and hybrid formats. The outcomes of the awards were then[…]

5G: the rural opportunity

Plum was engaged by a UK-based wireless services operator, to assess new commercial models for 5G deployment and assess related benefits in rural areas. Our work included detailed review of emerging regulation on spectrum management and policy issues. We also carried out primary research to assess stakeholders’ needs in rural areas, and built commercial and[…]