Core Perspective - AT&T is undergoing a significant transformation under CEO John Stankey to adapt to modern demands for speed and mobility, moving away from its legacy copper network towards fiber optic and wireless infrastructure [1][5]. Company Strategy - Stankey emphasizes the need for AT&T to "disrupt itself" and has initiated a cultural shift within the company, prioritizing a tech-style, market-based culture over traditional corporate values [3][5]. - The company plans to phase out most of its copper network in the US by the end of 2029, which is part of its strategy to remain relevant in a competitive landscape [3][5]. Financial Performance - AT&T's stock has seen a 22% increase this year, outperforming competitors T-Mobile (8.25%) and Verizon (6.7%), indicating a positive market response to its strategic refocus on fundamentals [4]. - The company reported strong second-quarter earnings, driven by growth in wireless and fiber subscribers, and anticipates a multi-year tax benefit of up to $8 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act [11]. Workforce Changes - AT&T's workforce currently stands at approximately 141,000 employees, with ongoing reductions to align more closely with competitors like Verizon (99,000) and T-Mobile (70,000) [14]. - The company has implemented a strict return-to-office mandate, leading to further workforce reductions, as Stankey indicated a willingness to let go of employees not aligned with the new company direction [15][16]. Competitive Landscape - AT&T is focusing on building extensive wireless and fiber optic networks to compete against Verizon, T-Mobile, and smaller operators, aiming to attract more customers through bundled services [5][10]. - Analysts suggest that AT&T's renewed focus on core competencies and a simplified strategy may enhance its profile among investors, contrasting with past misallocations of capital into non-core assets [19][20].

Core Viewpoint - Rogers Communications Inc. has successfully closed a CDN$7 billion equity investment from Blackstone and other Canadian institutional investors, aimed at reducing debt and enhancing operational control over its wireless network [2][4]. Group 1: Investment Details - The CDN$7 billion investment is managed by Blackstone and supported by major Canadian institutional investors including Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Public Sector Pension Investment Board, British Columbia Investment Management Corporation, and Investment Management Corporation of Ontario [2][4]. - Blackstone has acquired a non-controlling interest in a new subsidiary of Rogers that owns part of the wireless backhaul transport infrastructure, while Rogers retains full operational control of its network [3]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The transaction is seen as a demonstration of investor confidence in Rogers and its assets, with the company aiming to unlock the unrecognized value of critical assets and commit to de-leveraging its balance sheet [4].