Golden Telecom buys Moscow-based Ethernet provider

Golden Telecom has announced its acquisition of a controlling stake in the Moscow-based Ethernet provider Corbina. It is thought that Corbina may help GT resolve its difficulties with last-mile access to subscribers and with the installation of hardware for the Wi-Fi network which Golden Telecom is now building. Corbina itself will be able to give up plans to build its own Wi-Fi network and instead focus on providing Ethernet access services. A key condition of the deal is that Corbina will establish a presence in international markets through an IPO. Under the terms of the deal, owners of 51% of Corbina shares will receive 8% of Golden Telecom shares and $10 million, which puts the current value of the company at $280 million.