Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Vodafone's group service revenue growth accelerated to 5.8% in Q2, supported by growth across Europe and Africa [3] - Group EBITDA grew by 6.8% in the first half, with nearly all markets posting EBITDA growth [3][4] - Over EUR 5 billion returned to shareholders via buybacks and dividends over the last 18 months, with a further EUR 1 billion of buybacks expected in the next six months [2][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Germany, the 5G standalone network covers over 90% of the population, serving over 40 million customers and almost 60 million IoT SIMs [4] - Fixed broadband offers gigabit connectivity to three out of four German households, with continued expansion of gigabit broadband reach [4] - In the U.K., Vodafone serves almost 30 million mobile customers and is the fastest-growing broadband provider, with the largest gigabit footprint [6][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Vodafone holds leadership positions across African markets, reporting strong results in line with medium-term double-digit EBITDA growth guidance [8][9] - The U.K. market is experiencing good commercial momentum, supported by cross-selling opportunities and a multi-brand approach [7][8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to improve customer experience, simplify operations, and deliver sustainable cash flow growth in fiscal year 2026 and beyond [9] - Vodafone is focused on operational excellence and has completed the reshaping of the group, including the merger of Vodafone Three in the U.K. and the acquisition of Telecom Romania's assets [2][9] - The company is moving to a progressive dividend policy, indicating a commitment to grow dividends over time [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth outlook due to the turnaround in Germany, the U.K. integration, and strong positions in growing markets across Europe and Africa [9] - The company expects to close the year at the upper end of the growth guidance set in May, despite anticipated slowdowns in certain markets [3][14] Other Important Information - The company has introduced new propositions in mobile and is expanding capabilities to meet growing demand for digital services [5] - The integration of Vodafone and Three in the U.K. is progressing rapidly, with early wins in network quality and customer experience [6][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: EBITDA run rate for the second half and next year - Management indicated that while the first half saw strong growth, a slowdown is expected in the second half due to various factors, including marketing expenses and emerging markets' growth trends [11][14] Question: Turnaround initiatives in Germany - Management expects continued growth in Germany in the second half, supported by wholesale contributions and improved B2B performance [22][29] Question: U.K. integration and commercial performance - The integration of Vodafone and Three is progressing well, with positive actions leading to improved churn trends and strong consumer performance [36][42] Question: Proposed changes to legislation in Germany - Management believes that proposed changes will marginally accelerate fiber building but does not expect significant impacts on the OXG joint venture [47][50] Question: Performance of Vodafone Turkey - Turkey has shown significant financial success, with both EBITDA and cash flow increasing by close to EUR 300 million each over the last two years, despite a potential slowdown in growth due to moderating inflation [58][60] Question: Future of digital services and acquisitions - Management sees significant growth potential in digital services, particularly in B2B, and anticipates more activity in this space, including potential small acquisitions [85][88] Question: Dividend policy and shareholder returns - The company has adopted a progressive dividend policy, expecting to grow dividends year after year, while also considering share buybacks based on market conditions [80][81]