As Telecom Strategies Shift, Will ETFs Benefit?

Individual firms in the telecommunications sector are switching up their game strategies and it’s hoped that related exchange traded funds (ETFs) will score some points.

Verizon Communications (VZ) has announced it will merge with Frontier Communications for $5.3 billion in stock, according to The New York Times. The deal will include 4.8 million access lines covering 14 states. It is the beginning of Verizon’s plan to tap into the wireless, FiOS fiber-optic services and other broadband development.

Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO) has won the contract to expand the high-speed wireless networks of Clearwire Corp. (CLWR) and it will create new devices for the carrier, report Kelly Riddell and Ville Heiskanen for Bloomberg. The devices will be for consumers and small/medium-sized companies, and future technologies will be implemented to boost internet traffic.

The second largest phone company in Europe Telefonica SA (TEF) reported a 9.8% increase in first quarter profits after adding emerging market customers, writes Paul Tobin for Bloomberg. Customers in Latin America are expected to generate growth for the company as operations in Europe are on the decline.

• WisdomTree International Communications (DGG): down 13.4% year-to-date; TEF is 5.9%

• iShares Dow Jones U.S. Telecom (IYZ): up 7% year-to-date; VZ is 14.8%

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