Telecoms industry analysis, commentary, and research by Coleago’s expert team of directors and consultants.
Pakistan’s 2026 spectrum auction released unprecedented volumes of spectrum. This Insight provides an insider perspective on the multi-band award, drawing on Coleago’s direct involvement in supporting a successful bidder, and explores the auction design, bidding dynamics and key lessons for regulators.
Mobile connectivity supports economic development, social participation and digital innovation across every modern economy. Yet the performance and resilience of this ecosystem depend on a scarce national asset – radio spectrum. As many countries approach key licence renewal milestones for the original IMT 4G spectrum bands that were issued 10 to 20 years ago, the question of how to value spectrum and how to determine an appropriate renewal price takes on increasing importance in the case where the spectrum is being renewed via an administrative or hybrid auction process.
This article was first published in the GTPRN 2026 Newsletter, February 2026. It provides a fresh perspective on the merits of leveraging terrestrial mobile spectrum for D2D capacity. Terrestrial mobile spectrum could be used to substantially increase D2D capacity precisely where it is needed the most given that in 90% of the globe’s surface there is no shortage of spectrum.
Australia’s spectrum licence renewal process shows how operators can align regulatory engagement with commercial strategy. This case study highlights Coleago’s role in helping Optus secure optimal outcomes, from evidence-based submissions to spectrum planning for 5G and 6G.
Tanzania’s recent 3.6 GHz spectrum auction marks a major step toward 5G, but its design choices raise important questions about efficiency and fairness. Coleago’s latest white paper reviews the TCRA auction and shares key lessons for regulators and operators shaping future 5G spectrum awards.
In May this year, Coleago published a report prepared for the UK Spectrum Policy Forum which provides a technical and strategic assessment of future options for use of the UHF band (470–694 MHz) in the United Kingdom beyond 2034.
For years, European policymakers and telecom operators have touted the impressive figure: “89% 5G coverage of populated areas.” On paper, this paints a picture of near-ubiquitous, high-speed connectivity. Scratch the surface however, and the reality looks quite different.
Spectrum auctions, while common in the telecom industry, are complex and high-risk events that can significantly influence a company’s long-term performance. Missteps, especially vague auction objectives and poor valuation discipline, can lead to substantial destruction of shareholder value.
Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft are poised to revolutionise urban mobility, with commercial operations expected to begin as early as 2025 and significant growth anticipated by the 2030s.
Coleago Consulting in collaboration with its client, the UK Spectrum Policy Forum, has released a landmark report, “Future of the UHF Band After 2034,” setting out a detailed assessment of the United Kingdom’s Ultra High Frequency (UHF) spectrum landscape. The report looks at the industry trends and the critical trade-offs required to balance the needs of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT), Mobile Communications, and Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE).
Poland’s final low-band spectrum auction marks a pivotal moment in Europe’s 5G rollout, offering key lessons in auction design, cross-border coordination, and strategic spectrum management.
As spectrum licences approach their expiry date, a strategic approach to spectrum renewal is crucial. Traditional presumption of renewal in favour of incumbents may no longer serve the industry’s needs. Instead, a more strategic approach to renewal can optimise spectrum assignments and improve spectral efficiency by up to 40%.