Telia, Tele2, Telenor win 1800MHz spectrum, Hi3G misses out

Sweden’s Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) has concluded the first part of its auction of 1800MHz band mobile licences, split into seven blocks. After 18 bidding rounds, Net4Mobility (an equal joint venture of Tele2 and Telenor Sweden) won two blocks, 2×10MHz, for SEK430 million (USD65 million) and TeliaSonera won five blocks, 2×25MHz, costing SEK920 million. Hi3G Access (3 Sweden) also participated but did not win any blocks. In stage two, commencing Monday, the placement of the bidders’ existing and new spectrum in the band will be determined. Existing licences in the 1800MHz band were held by Net4Mobility (2×25MHz) and TeliaSonera (2×10MHz).