STOCKHOLM, Sweden-As expected, Tele2 has returned its third-generation license in Norway to the government. Tele2 plans to offer mobile virtual network operator services through an agreement with Telenor instead of building a 3G network in the country.
The company said the MVNO agreement will offer it significant cost advantages compared with a 3G network buildout, estimated at about $506 million.
Tele2 said its $45.6 million investment in its Norwegian 3G license will be written off in the fourth quarter. The company said its only cash effect for the license return is a $1.38 million fee payable to the Norwegian government.
