E-Business
Microsoft Acquisition of Nokia will not Change Mobile Market
The Nokia acquisition is a logical step forward for Microsoft but will not change the company’s position in mobile overnight, according to Ronan de Renesse, principal analyst, Analysys Mason.
Renesse commented that the acquisition will have a limited impact on the smartphone market in short/medium term.
Mason also stated that Nokia and Microsoft have been working hand-in-hand for 2.5 years on the Lumia device range and we don’t expect the acquisition to fundamentally change the Lumia team and its product roadmap for the next 12 months.
He said that the biggest opportunity for Microsoft is in the non-smartphone space. Microsoft will gain a foothold in developing market via Nokia’s non-Lumia device portfolio; 45.5% of Nokia mobile device shipments went to Greater China, Middle East & Africa and Latin America in 2012.
This strengthens Microsoft’s position versus Google in connecting the next billion people.
According to Mason, Microsoft must make a decision on the business model to adopt in mobile.
The handset market is extremely competitive making it particularly hard to sustain high margins and make a profit. Microsoft has the ability to undercut its competitors and use mobile as a loss leader to gain global reach for its services and software ecosystem.
No handset manufacturer except Nokia has been fully committed to Windows Phone platform in the past 12 months. Maybe it’s time for Microsoft to abandon its Windows licensing model in mobile.
Nokia had Tuesday announced that it is selling the majority of its handset business to Microsoft in a $7.2 billion all-cash deal, while Stephen Elop has stepped down as Nokia’s CEO.
Microsoft is paying just EUR3.8 billion for the handset division, and a single payment of EUR1.65 billion to license Nokia’s patents for the next ten years. Microsoft also gets a license for Nokia’s mapping services.
The operations that are planned to be transferred to Microsoft generated an estimated EUR 14.9 billion, or almost 50%, of Nokia’s net sales for the full year 2012.
Stephen Elop, Nokia’s CEO is stepping aside as Nokia President and CEO but will stay in charge of the mobile phones as Nokia Executive Vice President of Devices & Services.
Following the purchase, Microsoft said that it aims to accelerate the growth of its share and profit in mobile devices through faster innovation, increased synergies, and unified branding and marketing.
For its part, Nokia plans to focus on its three established businesses — NSN, mapping and its patent portfolio.
“After a thorough assessment of how to maximize shareholder value, including consideration of a variety of alternatives, we believe this transaction is the best path forward for Nokia and its shareholders,” said Risto Siilasmaa, Chairman of the Nokia Board of Directors and, following today’s announcement, also Nokia interim CEO.
At closing, approximately 32,000 people are expected to transfer to Microsoft, including 4,700 people in Finland and 18,300 employees directly involved in manufacturing, assembly and packaging of products worldwide
Nokia will retain its headquarters in Finland.
As part of the transaction, Nokia is assigning to Microsoft its long-term patent licensing agreement with Qualcomm, as well as other licensing agreements.
Nokia will continue to own and manage the Nokia brand, but will grant a 10-year license to use it to Microsoft.
“Following this transaction, Nokia’s financial situation is expected to be significantly stronger and its earnings profile significantly improved,” said Nokia CFO and interim President Timo Ihamuotila. “We will have three well-positioned businesses, each a leader in its market. Overall, we will continue to focus on managing and maximizing the assets of Nokia Group prudently and pragmatically to create value for Nokia shareholders.”
E-Business
Hisense Electronics Unveils Flagship Showroom in Abuja
By Fabian Tarpael, Abuja
Hisense electronics unveiled a flagship showroom in Abuja over the weekend. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mustapha Khries, the Abuja Branch Manager of the Fouani Group, highlighted the significance of the flagship store, describing it as the first of its kind in the entire West African region.
He also addressed the challenges facing businesses in Nigeria, particularly the high exchange rates and transportation costs.
“The Fouani Group remains resilient and ready to overcome challenges, unlike others who often exit the market when faced with similar issues.”
Ms. Haifa Du, Senior Sales Manager for Hisense Electronics, emphasized the brand’s commitment to affordability and innovation, stating that Hisense offers the most cost-effective and advanced solutions in the market.
The event underscored Hisense’s dedication to technological innovation and sustainability while reaffirming its leadership position in the consumer electronics market.
Mr. Robbin Wei, Senior Sales Manager of Hisense Group, supported by Mr. Greg and Ms. Haifa Du, showcased various innovative products from the new flagship store.
Among the standout products showcased include; The Hisense 110″ Smart Ultra AMOLED TV, featuring unique capabilities such as a solar-powered remote control and a “locate remote” function to find misplaced remotes easily.
E-Business
PalmPay, Jumia Partner to Launch Integration for Shoppers in Nigeria
PalmPay, Africa-focused fintech operating Nigeria’s most used mobile wallet, and Jumia, Africa’s e-commerce giant, today announce a strategic partnership to enhance the digital payment ecosystem on the continent, starting with payment integrations and co-marketing efforts in Nigeria.
This partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to developing the digital payment ecosystem in Nigeria and grow the use of the cashless economy.
WIth PalmPay now available as a payment method, shoppers on Jumia will now be able to pay for their purchases with the option to check out with their PalmPay wallet, ensuring a seamless user experience and transaction reliability through the direct integration.
“We are proud to partner with Jumia as we bring together the best of fintech and e-commerce to redefine the online shopping experience,” said Sofia Zab, Chief Marketing Officer, PalmPay. “This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to delivering a superior user experience and exceptional value to our customers.”
Speaking on the partnership, Sunil Natraj, CEO, Jumia Nigeria added: “At Jumia, we are dedicated to creating value for our customers by ensuring a convenient, reliable, and secure shopping experience.
“This partnership with PalmPay strengthens our commitment to enhancing the digital payments within our platform. By integrating PalmPay, we are providing more options for customers to access affordable and quality goods with the convenience of cashless transactions.”
This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between two industry giants, aiming to drive innovation, increase convenience for consumers, and foster the adoption of digital payments across Africa.
To celebrate the launch of the partnership, PalmPay and Jumia are launching a special Christmas campaign, running from December 11th to 30th. During this period, customers who make purchases on Jumia using the PalmPay payment method will stand a chance to win exciting cash rewards. More details can be found on the brands’ respective social media pages. @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria.
E-Business
Aero Contractors Launches “12 Days of Christmas” Campaign
Aero Contractors is thrilled to announce the launch of its “12 Days of Christmas” campaign, a festive and engaging social media initiative designed to spread holiday cheer and reward loyal customers.
Running from December 13 to December 24, 2024, this exciting campaign underscores Aero Contractors’ commitment to connecting families, friends, and communities during the holidays.
The “12 Days of Christmas” campaign invites travel enthusiasts, loyal customers, and holiday travelers to participate in fun and interactive activities on Aero Contractors’ social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Each day will feature engaging posts such as trivia, puzzles, and challenges designed to ignite the festive spirit and encourage community participation.
Participants are encouraged to follow Aero Contractors’ social media pages, engage with the daily posts by liking, commenting, or sharing, and follow the specific instructions for each day’s activity.
Winners will be selected daily and announced on the respective platforms. Exciting prizes await participants, with the grand reward of a free return economy class ticket—a perfect gift for reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new destinations this holiday season.
“At Aero Contractors, we believe in the power of togetherness, especially during the holidays,” said Capt. Ado Sanusi, Managing Director of Aero Contractors.
“Our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign is our way of giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to engage, celebrate, and reward our customers while spreading joy and festive cheer.”
This campaign targets travel enthusiasts, loyal Aero Contractors customers, and families looking to make the most of the holiday season. Through this initiative, Aero Contractors reaffirms its dedication to safe, reliable, and efficient air travel, bringing people closer when it matters most.
Follow Aero Contractors on Instagram, Facebook, and X to join the “12 Days of Christmas” campaign. Engage daily for a chance to win a free return economy class ticket and other exciting offers.
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