The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that BCE posted a net loss of $1.2-billion in its third quarter, attributing it to increased competition in wireless and a $2.1-billion writedown of its media properties. The Globe's Irene Galea writes that BCE's shares fell nearly 10 per cent after announcing a $5-billion acquisition of Internet provider Ziply Fiber and pausing dividend increases to address financial issues. The stock declined further to about $38.33 per share, its lowest since 2011, resulting in a dividend yield of over 10 per cent. BCE also lowered its 2024 revenue guidance, now expecting a 1.5-per-cent decline instead of earlier projected growth.
The Ziply deal raised concerns over high capital spending and reduced debt focus. However, BCE chief executive officer Mirko Bibic highlighted the potential for long-term returns and the company's willingness to pursue more opportunities in the U.S. during a call with analysts. He noted that fibre buildout there is much less expansive than in Canada and that the company would consider assets that could blend with Ziply Fiber's existing buildout. The Globe says fibre revenue growth in the U.S. is significantly outpacing that of overall residential services.
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