Russia’s Tele2 could host Sberbank’s MVNO on network

MOSCOW, Sep 13 (PRIME) -- Russian mobile operator T2 RTK Holding, working as Tele2, is holding talks with Sberbank to create a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Konstantin Prokshin, head of T2 RTK Holding’s strategic communications department, said Tuesday.

“We are negotiating a launch of an MVNO with them,” Prokshin said without disclosing any more details.

Sberbank’s CEO German Gref said earlier on Tuesday the bank’s plans to create a virtual operator as a separate unit. Such operators do not have their own infrastructure, but exploit the one of traditional market players.

Mass media reported earlier that Sberbank’s virtual operator would be free for its clients, who would get cashback to the tune of 0.5–3% from the value of a purchase or a service consumed. The cashback could be used for free mobile connection with a monthly bundle offer. When the limit is exceeded, clients would pay.

T2 RTK Holding is going to put an MVNO in operation with its 45%-owner, state-controlled telecom operator Rostelecom.

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