Many of the largest wireless service operators announced transactions or strategic investments that will likely result in further consolidation of market power among the top four wireless incumbents. In addition, Dish Network gained FCC approval to use 40 MHz of AWS-4 wireless spectrum to operate a terrestrial-based mobile broadband wireless network. The FCC's decision clears a path for DISH to either construct an LTE Advanced network or partner with an existing wireless network operator.
Fitch believes further consolidation or transformative transactions will be necessary, especially among smaller wireless service providers, to bolster weakening competitive position relative to the market leaders AT&T and Verizon Wireless.
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