FNB partners with MTN SA in a bid to boost its mobile virtual network operator

Banking group First National Bank (FNB) announced that it has entered into a “strategic network collaboration” with mobile operator MTN South Africa to boost its mobile virtual network operator (MNVO), FNB Connect. The bank launched its MVNO on Cell C’s network in June 2015, and confirmed that it will continue to use those services.

Cell C has, over the years, switched off all its tower infrastructure and handed over the building and operation of its cellular network to MTN, a project which was completed this month. In turn, MTN will provide Cell C with access to a “virtual radio access network” for its prepaid and MVNO subscribers.

Asked for comment on the developments, Cell C’s chief officer for wholesale business, Stephen Morony, said the operator has signed a multi-year extension of its existing agreement with FNB Connect, which now has a “dual-vendor strategy”. FNB remains a “strategic partner”, Morony said.

We look forward to our continued relationship with the FNB Connect team while welcoming competition in the MVNO space. Cell C is confident that our technology platform, our extensive MVNO partner experience, range of service offerings, and value propositions are competitive and will serve our varied customer segments well, enabling ever more choice for the South African consumer.

Stephen Morony

According to FNB, the new “strategic network collaboration” will boost its access to reliable telecommunications and internet services, which will benefit customers who use FNB Connect.

FNB Connect already offers an extensive array of innovative services that are accessible through FNB’s trusted digital platform, and the addition of MTN as a network partner allows customers to enjoy the best of both worlds in network quality.

FNB

Jacques Celliers, CEO of FNB, said the bank will leverage the partnership to expand its range of services by introducing more cost-effective and tailored products for individual and business customers.

This includes…fibre, 5G, and LTE for faster internet speeds and reliable connectivity for both residential and commercial customers.

Jacques Celliers, FNB CEO

MTN said the partnership is part of the group’s broader efforts to support MVNOs and the deal with FNB serves as an endorsement of the network’s reliability.