The DoT received bids worth Rs 56,792 crore on the second day of spectrum auctions, which completed 12 rounds of auctions since the first day. Most demand was seen in the 1800 MHz band used for both 2G and 4G services, closely followed by the 2300 MHz band. The premium 700 MHz and 900 MHz saw no takers for a second day in a row. Overall the demand was concentrated on the 1800 MHz and 2300 MHz bands, while rest of the bands received lukewarm response. Note that the 1st day of the 2015 auctions received bids worth Rs 60,000 crore in just 4 bands. In spite of having five times more quantum of spectrum spread across seven different bands for this year’s auctions, demand remained low on the second day. The 1800 MHz, however, continues to see increasing bids in both the first and second day. Reserve prices saw an increment in 2 circles including Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh (East) on the second day; both circles saw an excess demand on 1st day as well. Comparatively, during the 2014 2G auctions, prices in 10 circles were higher than the initial reserve price on the second day, while after 12 rounds of auction in 2016, reserve prices rose in just 3 circles. 800 MHz The band which was made available in 19 circles saw minimal demand with bids seen in just two circles of Gujarat and Punjab. The band however saw excess demand in Rajasthan circle on Day 1. Credit Suisse said in…
