UK Approves Vodafone-Three Merger with Strict Conditions

The £16.5 billion deal will create the UK's largest mobile operator, subject to commitments on 5G investment and consumer protections.

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has approved the Vodafone-Three merger, contingent on legally binding commitments from both companies.
The merged entity will invest £11 billion over eight years to upgrade and expand its 5G network, aiming to cover 99% of the UK population.
Consumer protections include a three-year cap on selected mobile tariffs and preset terms for mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs).
Vodafone will initially hold a 51% stake in the merged company, with plans to acquire the remaining 49% from CK Hutchison after three years, subject to conditions.
The CMA and Ofcom will oversee the implementation of the commitments, requiring annual progress reports from the merged entity.