Slovakia: Fixed and Mobile Data Network Expansion to Drive Telecom Market Growth

Summary We expect the Slovak telecom market to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% in local terms between 2013 and 2018, with the data segment being the main area of growth, propelled by rollouts of fast networks. Indeed, with strong regulatory pressure on the voice segment in both fixed and mobile markets and the uptake of mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, operators are turning their focus to the growth of data services. The expected 4G/LTE license auction will allow operators to expand mobile services. Key Findings In 2013, the Slovak telecom market will generate €1.6bn ($2.1bn) in service revenue, growing 1.0% year on year in local currency terms. We expect the telecom market to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% in local terms between 2013 and 2018, reaching €1.9bn ($2.4bn) by 2018. Mobile voice will remain an important revenue stream, accounting for just less than half of total telecom revenue by 2018 and generating a cumulative €5.1bn ($6.5bn) in service revenue during the forecast period. Data demand keeps growing, along with operators' continuing network investments. We expect total data (fixed and mobile) revenue to grow at a CAGR of 9.0% in local terms. Mobile data alone will grow at a 10.3% CAGR in local currency over the forecast period, generating a cumulative €2.6bn ($3.3bn) in service revenue. Synopsis NA