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Speculation that AT&T ( T ) is mulling a return to India’s highly competitive wireless market is back. Reports that AT&T was mulling a re-entry into India last surfaced from 2007 to 2009, but nothing came of it. Now, however, the Times of India says AT&T, as well as Liberty Global ’s ( LBTYA ) Virgin Media, might sell wireless services under wholesale networking leasing deals known as MVNOs (mobile virtual network operator). The Indian newspaper says AT&T might also take part in an auction of radio spectrum that had been delayed but could happen in late 2016. Market leader Bharti Airtel and other wireless firms have criticized the government’s pricing of auction airwaves, which could open the door to new entrants. An AT&T spokesperson declined comment. India has over 1 million wireless users, but price competition has been fierce over the years. Vodafone Group ( VOD ), meanwhile, may forge ahead with an initial public offering of its wireless assets in India. AT&T backed off from acquiring Vodafone in early 2014. AT&T’s forerunner, SBC Communications, in 2005 sold its 33% stake in India’s Idea Cellular, which is now No. 3 in India’s wireless market. In 2007, AT&T formed a joint venture with India’s Mahindra Group, but they were unable to acquire mobile licenses. Around that time, reports said AT&T was talking to Malaysia’s Maxis Communications, which owned a 74% stake in Aircel, one of India’s smaller wireless firms. Scalper1 News
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