How are telcos growing beyond connectivity in 2023?

Summary

This report examines how telecommunications companies in Asia Pacific are expanding beyond traditional connectivity services in 2023. As telcos face saturated core markets, the focus has shifted to growing non-connectivity revenues through digital services such as e-commerce, digital payments, mobility solutions, insurance, and streaming platforms. The report explores the strategies telcos are using to capture value in these adjacent markets, including the development of new capabilities, forming strategic partnerships, and aligning board-level expectations around the profitability of these new ventures. Key questions addressed include: What are the most promising non-core revenue streams for telcos in Asia Pacific? How are leading telecom operators building and scaling digital services for their existing customer base? What organizational changes and partnerships are required to succeed in these new domains? What challenges do telcos face in balancing investment, innovation, and profitability as they diversify? The report also highlights which Asia Pacific telcos are leading in the growth of non-connectivity services, providing a framework for benchmarking and learning. Readers will gain insights into the evolving role of telecom operators as digital service providers and the critical factors influencing success in the region’s rapidly changing telecommunications landscape. This resource is essential for industry professionals seeking to understand the future of telco business models and the opportunities and challenges of moving beyond connectivity.