Eutelsat, Viasat create European broadband JV

Eutelsat Communications and ViaSat created an European broadband joint venture combining Eutelsat’s European broadband business with ViaSat’s broadband technology know-how and ISP business expertise. The partnership will expand Eutelsat’s existing wholesale broadband business and launch a new consumer retail service in Europe.

Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, the joint venture will consist of two businesses coordinating efforts to expand the European broadband market, namely Wholesale Services and Retail Services. Eultesat owns a 51 percent stake in the first business and a 49 stake in the second business, while Viasat has a 51 percent stake in the second business and 49 percent in the first. ViaSat has acquired a 49 percent interest in the first business for a consideration of EUR 132.5 million. 

Wholesale Services will focus on providing wholesale broadband and mobility services in the European and Mediterranean regions to the newly established retail services business and existing Eutelsat distributors. Retail Services will focus on offering retail broadband services in the European and Mediterranean regions.