BT fumbles for change

Article Abstract:

British Telecom (BT) ranks third among British public companies, and has performed well in the stock market, as has the sector as a whole. The company has 2 million stockholders and was privatized in 1984. BT has invested 1.5 billion pounds sterling in Europe, and has invested elsewhere, including India and New Zealand. The company was to have merged with MCI, but MCI was then acquired by WorldCom. BT's market share in the United Kingdom is forecast to fall to 69% by 2002 from 80% in 1997.

Company Profile

BT searches for a new connection

Article Abstract:

British Telecommunications (BT) has a number of options in relation to its world strategy which has been affected by a bid by WorldCom for MCI Communications. BT's JV with MCI, Concert, could be affected if the WorldCom bid is successful. BT could increase its offer, negotiate an agreement with WorldCom, sell its stake in MCI, or revert to its role as a United Kingdom telecoms utility. The last option could be the safest for BT, though opinion is divided on this issue.

Telefonica

Article Abstract:

Telefonica has benefited from a move into Latin American markets, but faces challenges in the European mobile phone services market.

Telefonica S.A.