Indian Telecom Giant Seeks Greater Exposure to BT

Bharti Enterprises is reportedly exploring plans to increase its stake in BT Group to just below the threshold that would trigger a mandatory takeover offer for the British telecom company.

According to people familiar with the matter, Bharti could raise its ownership to as much as 29.9% as it seeks greater economic exposure to BT while avoiding a full acquisition bid.

The Indian conglomerate, led by billionaire Sunil Bharti Mittal, is reportedly seeking approval from the UK government before moving forward. Any increase above a 25% stake would require review under the UK’s National Security and Investment Act because of BT’s strategic importance to national telecommunications infrastructure.

A spokesperson for Bharti said the company remains satisfied with its current 24.95% stake and “currently has no plans to increase its stake.”

Bharti Became Major BT Shareholder in 2024

Bharti first became a major investor in BT in 2024 after purchasing a 24.5% stake from telecom investor Patrick Drahi and his company Altice.

At the time, Bharti expressed support for BT’s leadership team and its long-term transformation strategy focused on sustainable growth and network modernization.

Since Bharti’s investment, BT shares have risen approximately 55%, according to market data.

UK Government Closely Monitoring Telecom Ownership

The UK government previously approved Bharti’s investment following a detailed national security review. As part of that process, BT established a national security committee to oversee sensitive operations connected to the country’s infrastructure.

The situation highlights increasing government scrutiny of foreign investments in strategic sectors such as telecommunications, technology, and national infrastructure.

Despite speculation surrounding a larger stake, sources familiar with the matter said Bharti does not intend to pursue a full takeover of BT.

Bharti Strengthens Presence in Global Telecom Industry

Bharti Enterprises, which controls the Bharti Airtel telecom brand operating across South Asia and Africa, continues expanding its global telecom influence through strategic investments and partnerships.

Following the BT investment, both Sunil Bharti Mittal and Gopal Vittal joined BT’s board as non-executive directors, further strengthening ties between the two companies.

Investors are closely watching whether Bharti eventually increases its stake, as any move would likely face regulatory scrutiny due to BT’s role as one of Britain’s largest broadband and mobile providers.

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