Teddy, I think that you come down hard and a bit too hastily on Robert (not that RS needs anyone to take up the cause on his behalf). I posted last week how important I thought the Hutchison-Whampoa connection was (implicitly seconded by Frank), based on my own work with a client in the industry. But saying that, without more, does not respond in substance to your skepticism, which is soundly based. After all, the Vod poster Robert cites acknowledged that his theory was speculation and nothing more. I searched for, but could not locate, the VOD press release referred to by the poster on Yahoo to which Robert refers. Therefore, I am unable to read and construe it to reach an opinion that supports either you or Robert. If anyone is able to find the release, it would be much appreciated by the thread if you were to post it.
However, on the other side of the ledger, it seems a bit far-fetched for VOD to announce in advance the selection of a software platform to be announced at a future date. That kind of build-up may well presage the announcement of a more substantial alliance, such as a carrier's platform. There is so much happening now in the PRC internet space, in terms of new entrants, regulatory upheavals and market demand within China, that it certainly would be timely to announce joint venture partners and/or infrastructure to address that part of the internet space. (Just consider this more groundless speculation to add fuel to the fire <gg>.) We'll know soon enough.
Steve |
