Telenor sells ownership in True Corporation

Core Viewpoint - Telenor has agreed to sell its 24.95% stake in True Corporation for approximately NOK 39 billion, marking a significant divestment after 25 years in Thailand [1][6]. Group 1: Transaction Details - The sale price is set at THB 11.70 per share, which represents a 36% increase from the closing price on the first trading day post-merger in March 2023, and a 4% premium to the last three months' volume-weighted average share price [7]. - Telenor will also have a mutual put/call option for the remaining 5.35% stake two years after the initial sale, priced at the higher of THB 11.70 per share or the market price at that time [1]. Group 2: Financial Implications - The proceeds from the sale of the 24.95% stake are expected to be THB 100.9 billion (approximately NOK 32.3 billion), with an additional THB 21.9 billion (approximately NOK 6.9 billion) anticipated from the option exercise [11]. - Telenor expects to recognize an accounting gain of approximately NOK 14.7 billion at the closing of the initial sale, with NOK 1.6 billion related to recycling historical currency translation differences [13]. Group 3: Strategic Context - This divestment aligns with Telenor's strategy for structural simplification and focuses on enhancing shareholder value through capital discipline and effective capital allocation [9][12]. - The sale follows Telenor's recent divestment of Telenor Pakistan, indicating a broader strategy to create structural value in Asia [8]. Group 4: Company Growth and Market Position - Telenor has established market leadership in Thailand over the past 25 years, significantly contributing to mobile connectivity for millions [4][6]. - The merger of dtac and True in 2023 created Thailand's largest telecom-tech company, positioning it for future investments in 5G, AI, and digital services [5].