iWorld
ACT Fibernet revamps broadband plans across India
BENGALURU: ACT Fibernet has overhauled its broadband plans across all 30+ cities, aiming to put speed, streaming and smarter connectivity firmly in the hands of users. The revamped portfolio, anchored by next-generation ACT SmartWiFi, blends high-speed internet with curated OTT content to match modern lifestyles, from remote work to binge-watching.
Drawing on feedback from urban centres such as Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Vijayawada, Vizag and emerging markets including Kanchipuram and Ghaziabad, the new plans cater to the distinct habits of India’s digital consumers.
Plans start at Rs 499 for 50 Mbps, scaling up to 1 Gbps mesh-enabled speeds at Rs 1,999. Entertainment packs combine high-speed internet with OTT subscriptions to Netflix, JioHotstar, Amazon Prime Video (Prime Lite), ZEE5, SonyLIV and SunNXT, alongside over 450 live channels, targeting gamers, students, professionals and families alike.
ACT SmartWiFi, powered by AI, ensures seamless connectivity across homes while mesh networking keeps signals strong in larger spaces.
City value-pack pricing highlights:
• Delhi: Rs 749
• Jaipur: Rs 749
• Lucknow: Rs 749
• Ahmedabad: Rs 749
• Hyderabad: Rs 798
• Vijaywada: Rs 778
• Pune: Rs 848
• Housur: Rs 899
• Tumkur: Rs 650
• Chennai: Rs 749
• Warangal: Rs 789
• Ghaziabad: Rs 650
• Bangalore: Rs 749
Ravi Karthik, chief marketing officer, ACT Fibernet, said: “Internet needs today are as diverse as the people using them. Some need consistent speeds for work and learning, others for streaming, gaming or running a smart home. We have built plans that deliver speed, reliability and value tailored to real usage. ACT SmartWiFi already provides intelligent coverage; our new plans take personalisation further, offering flexibility, best-in-class value and more choices.”
The new plans are now live for all customers with full details on actcorp.in.
With speed, streaming and smarts all in one place, ACT Fibernet’s new portfolio is not just broadband it is broadband on steroids.
iWorld
Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square makes $64 billion bid to acquire Universal Music Group
Ackman pitches NYSE relisting plan as UMG board weighs unsolicited offer
The hedge fund has proposed a business combination that values UMG at €30.40 per share, representing a hefty 78 per cent premium to its current trading price. The offer includes €9.4 billion in cash alongside stock in a newly formed entity, with shareholders set to receive €5.05 per share in cash and 0.77 shares in the new company for each UMG share they hold.
Under the proposal, UMG would merge with Pershing Square SPARC Holdings Ltd and re-emerge as a Nevada-based entity listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The move is designed to boost investor visibility and potentially secure inclusion in major indices such as the S&P 500.
Pershing Square Capital Management ceo Bill Ackman argued that while UMG’s operational performance remains strong, its market valuation has lagged due to external factors. “UMG’s stock price has languished due to a combination of issues that are unrelated to the performance of its music business,” Ackman said, pointing to concerns ranging from shareholder overhang to delayed US listing plans.
Ackman also flagged what he sees as untapped potential in UMG’s balance sheet and a lack of clear capital allocation strategy. He added that the market has not fully recognised the value of UMG’s €2.7 billion stake in Spotify, alongside gaps in investor communication.
The proposed transaction would also result in the cancellation of around 17 per cent of UMG’s outstanding shares, while maintaining its investment-grade balance sheet. Pershing Square has said it will fully backstop the equity financing, with debt commitments secured at signing. The deal is targeted for completion by the end of the year.
UMG, however, has struck a measured tone. The company confirmed that its board has received the non-binding proposal and will review it with advisers. It reiterated confidence in its current strategy and leadership under Lucian Grainge, signalling no immediate shift in stance.
The proposal comes at a time when global music companies are navigating evolving investor expectations, streaming economics and capital allocation pressures. For Pershing Square, the bet is clear: sharpen the financial story, relist in the US, and let the music play louder in the markets.
Whether UMG’s board is ready to change the tune remains to be seen, but the spotlight on its valuation just got a lot brighter.
