Core Viewpoint - VEON Ltd. and Rakuten Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore strategic collaboration in next-generation connectivity and digital services, focusing on cloud-native network infrastructure [1][2][3] Group 1: Collaboration Framework - The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation on modern, software-driven telecom networks and scalable digital platforms [2] - The collaboration will assess opportunities in key technology areas such as Open RAN architectures, AI-powered network intelligence, and global IoT connectivity [2] Group 2: Strategic Goals - The partnership aims to leverage Beeline Kazakhstan's market position and Rakuten Symphony's expertise to modernize connectivity infrastructure and develop advanced digital services in Kazakhstan [3] - The collaboration reflects a commitment to enhancing efficiency, resilience, and customer experience through next-generation network architectures [4] Group 3: Company Backgrounds - VEON provides connectivity and digital services to nearly 150 million connectivity users and 140 million digital users across five countries [5] - Beeline Kazakhstan serves 11.9 million mobile customers and around one million fixed internet customers, with a focus on digital solutions [6] - Rakuten Group operates in e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications, serving 2 billion members globally [7][8] Group 4: Innovation and Technology - Rakuten Symphony aims to disrupt traditional telecom models with open interface platforms that enable rapid service deployment at lower costs [9] - The collaboration with Beeline Kazakhstan is part of a broader strategy to enhance network evolution and digital service ambitions within the VEON Group [4]

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Arium Networks (the "Company†), the planned successor to Crown Castle's Small Cell Solutions business, is pleased to announce its new brand identity and the appointment of Laurent "LT†Therivel as incoming Chief Executive Officer. At launch, Arium Networks will serve as a leading builder and operator of digital infrastructure, specializing in the deployment of small cell, in-building and venue-based networks that enhance essential wireless connectivity. After the acquisiti ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q4 2024 sales were $15.1 million, a 6% sequential decline but a 50% increase year-over-year, primarily driven by consumer market recovery [27] - Gross margin for Q4 reached 43.4%, marking its fourth sequential increase, driven by operational efficiencies and a favorable sales mix [29] - Full year 2024 sales totaled $60.6 million, an 8% increase compared to the prior year, with consumer sales increasing by 15% [32][34] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was negative $0.8 million, an improvement from negative $4.5 million in 2023 [37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer sales in Q4 reached $6.5 million, reflecting strong Tier 1 MNO sales [28] - Automotive sales were $3.3 million, a high point for the year but fell short of expectations due to channel excess inventory [28] - Enterprise sales decreased to $5.3 million, primarily due to reduced sales of embedded modems and custom IoT products impacted by excess customer inventory [28][34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The serviceable addressable market (TAM) grew from $1.1 billion in 2024 to $2.6 billion in 2025, driven by the AC-Fleet vehicle gateway and Lighthouse smart repeaters [9] - The company expects the consumer market to experience steady but modest growth through 2025 [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning from a component supplier to a high-value wireless system solutions provider, focusing on scaling deployments and accelerating customer adoption [8][41] - Strategic partnership with Omantel aims to enhance network performance and optimize coverage in the Middle East, with plans for larger scale commercial rollouts in 2026 [14][45] - The introduction of Lighthouse Solar aims to provide sustainable connectivity solutions in areas lacking electricity [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a recovery in the enterprise segment in the second half of 2025, despite current inventory issues [56] - The company anticipates deploying Lighthouse across more than 50 sites in 2025, establishing a foundation for larger scale commercial rollouts [45] - Management remains focused on execution and scaling deployments while navigating short-term industry headwinds [41][45] Other Important Information - The company recorded its first Lighthouse commercial deployment revenue in Q4 2024 [28] - The partnership with Omantel includes a joint sales and marketing effort to penetrate the MENA region [59] Q&A Session Summary Question: Visibility on enterprise segment recovery - Management noted that two customers are experiencing delays due to inventory issues but expect improvements in the second half of the year [56] Question: Revenue contribution from Lighthouse in 2025 - Management indicated that while Lighthouse revenue will be small in 2025, there are plans for deployments starting this quarter [58] Question: Ongoing trials for AirgainConnect product - Management confirmed that trials are ongoing, with positive feedback on performance improvements and installation ease [64][66]