Bharti Enterprises has announced plans to acquire a majority stake in BT Group, the United Kingdom’s leading broadband and mobile operator.
Bharti will purchase about 24.5% of BT Group from its current largest shareholder, Altice. The acquisition will be executed via Bharti Global, the international investment arm of Bharti Enterprises.
Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, described the deal as historically significant: “Bharti and BT have an enduring relationship going back more than two decades, when BT previously held a 21% stake and two board seats in Bharti Airtel Limited from 1997 to 2001.
“Today marks an important milestone for Bharti Group as we invest in BT — an iconic British company.”
Bharti Global will complete the transaction through its subsidiary Bharti Televentures. The purchase will happen in two stages: an immediate acquisition of a 9.99% stake, followed by the remaining 14.51% once required regulatory approvals are obtained.
Mittal added that the investment aligns with broader diplomatic and economic ties: “This investment in BT aims to support the commitment of our honourable Prime Minister towards his vision of elevating and broadening India–UK relations.”
Demonstrating its commitment to regulatory transparency, Bharti has voluntarily applied for clearance under the UK’s National Security and Investment Act.
Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive of BT Group, welcomed the move: “We welcome investors who recognise the long-term value of our business, and this scale of investment from Bharti Global is a strong vote of confidence in the future of BT Group and our strategy.”
The seller, Altice UK, controlled by telecoms entrepreneur Patrick Drahi, increased its BT holding to 18% in 2021. This transaction represents a notable shift in BT’s shareholder base and may influence the company’s strategic direction.
Mittal highlighted Bharti’s operational experience: “Bharti’s track record of owning and operating telecom and broadband networks worldwide is built on putting customers first, driving digital innovation, and achieving operational efficiency.”
Despite acquiring a substantial minority stake, Bharti has stated it does not intend to launch a bid to buy BT Group outright. That indicates Bharti seeks a strategic partnership rather than a full takeover.
The timing of the investment is important: BT is investing heavily to expand fibre broadband across the UK and to roll out its 5G network. Bharti’s experience in network operations and its broader digital investments — including stakes in companies such as OneWeb, which merged with Eutelsat in 2023 — could support BT’s future growth and innovation efforts.
Kirkby added: “BT has enjoyed a long association with Bharti Enterprises, and I’m pleased they share our ambition and vision for the business. They have a strong record in the sector, and I look forward to constructive engagement with them in the months and years ahead.”
This transaction also underscores growing international investor interest in the UK telecoms sector. As the industry contends with infrastructure modernisation and rising demand for high-speed connectivity, overseas investment may play a key role in shaping the sector’s future.
The deal remains subject to regulatory approvals, and both companies will work closely with relevant authorities to complete the transaction smoothly.
(Image Credit: BT)
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