Core Viewpoint - AT&T has agreed to acquire Lumen Technologies' consumer fiber business for $5.75 billion, aiming to expand its high-speed broadband services in major cities like Denver and Las Vegas, pending regulatory approval expected in the first half of next year [1] Group 1: Transaction Details - The acquisition will add approximately 1 million fiber customers for AT&T, expanding its coverage to 4 million fiber locations across 11 states [1] - The estimated cost per fiber coverage point is between $1,300 and $1,400 [1] - Lumen's net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio will decrease from 4.9x to 3.9x, reducing capital expenditures in the fiber business by about $1 billion [1] Group 2: Analyst Perspectives - Morgan Stanley views the acquisition positively, suggesting AT&T can increase fiber penetration in new areas from 25% to 40%, potentially leading to double-digit EPS growth [2] - UBS believes the deal solidifies AT&T's position as the largest integrated fiber provider in the U.S., with a goal to cover 60 million homes by 2030 [2] - Bank of America states the transaction aligns with AT&T's strategic focus on connectivity and fiber expansion, maintaining a "buy" rating [3] - Oppenheimer considers the deal a slight positive for AT&T, reinforcing its position as the largest and fastest-growing fiber builder [3]