Orange is considering plans to spin off its cyber security operations as part of its strategic options, reports Les Echos quoting group CEO Stephane Richard. The news follows an earlier report by La Lettre A, which recently revealed that investment banker Jean-Marie Messier was involved in the project. Trade unions have expressed strong opposition to the plan, arguing that it would prevent effective collaboration with closely linked group divisions, particularly Orange Business Services.
A possible listing of the Orange Cyberdefense subsidiary is the latest among a number of high-profile initiatives under consideration. The group has already announced plans to carve out its tower assets into separate units and has reportedly begun preparations for a potential initial public offering (IPO) of its Africa and Middle East operations.
