Singtel Anticipates Non-Cash Impairment of S$3.1 Billion
Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) is expecting a significant non-cash impairment of S$3.1 billion (equivalent to $2.28 billion) for the latter half of 2024, signaling a potential net loss for the period.
Impairment Details
- The impairment amount includes approximately S$2 billion related to the goodwill of its mobile network operation unit, Optus.
- Optus, a key entity in Singtel’s portfolio, is projected to face non-cash impairment provisions of up to S$470 million on its enterprise fixed access network assets.
- There will also be non-cash impairment provisions of S$340 million for the goodwill of its Asia Pacific cyber security business and S$280 million for IT service provider NCS Australia.
Reasons Behind the Impairment
The downturn is attributed to various factors, including dimming prospects, increased cost of capital, and a negative macroeconomic outlook. A review of Singtel’s enterprise business highlighted declines in fixed carriage revenue, in line with broader market trends in Australia.
Future Plans
Singtel remains committed to delivering shareholder returns and plans to adhere to the upper threshold of its dividend policy for the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2024.
Industry Impact
The disclosure of the impairment provision sheds light on significant challenges faced by the telecom industry, particularly concerning fixed access networks and cyber security.
Concurrently, Singtel’s subsidiary Optus has reached an agreement with local competitor TPG Telecom to provide access to its regional Australian radio network.
The company is set to announce its financial results for the period on May 23.