Mobile spectrum licence duration and mobile network operators’ investment decisions

17 February 2023

Spectrum licence duration can potentially impact MNOs’ investment incentives. That is, in principle, longer licence terms could increase mobile network operators’ (MNOs) certainty about their spectrum access, and this could lead to increased investments in network infrastructure. However, despite the potential importance of licence duration for MNOs’ investment levels, there is limited empirical research available on how they interact. The research presented in this discussion paper aims to expand on this limited evidence base.

Economic discussion paper: Mobile spectrum licence duration and mobile network operators’ investment decisions (PDF, 322.5 KB)

CRA Report on Mobile Spectrum License Duration and MNOs Investment Decisions (PDF, 2.5 MB)