OREANDA-NEWS.   Tele2, an alternative mobile operator, reports that the AK&M rating agency has confirmed the national scale credit rating assigned to OJSC “Tele2 − Saint Petersburg” at “A+” (Stable Outlook).

The A+ rating indicates that the company is qualified as a very reliable borrower. A risk of delay in meeting liabilities is low.

OJSC “Tele2 − Saint Petersburg” performed relatively high FY2013 financial results. The revenue totaled 10.7 bn rubles, which is equivalent to a 6% growth on a yearly basis. Over the period the company’s topline gained 8.3% whereas the sales profit increased 15.7%. The agency also pointed out improvements in marginality indicators.

According to АК&M, the company’s strong stance on telecommunications and telematics market in North-West region along with the business’ efficiency turn out to be one of the key factors for confirming Tele2’s rating at a high level.

In February 2014 Tele2 and Rostelecom announced consolidation of its mobile assets at Tele2 basis and setting up a new federal operator. According to AK&M rating agency, the deal is creating new possibilities for Tele2’s further development.

They primarily include licenses to provide services in Moscow Region as well as an access to radio frequencies to roll out 3G and 4G networks.

Analysts consider a synergistic effect of the joint venture as very positive. According to АК&M, enhancement of the parent company’s stance will contribute to better financial stability and growth of the holding’s business units including OJSC “Tele2 − Saint Petersburg”.