Metro Connect 2026 agenda

Fiber and data center ABS has emerged as a compelling funding solution in digital infrastructure, with Zayo entering the space in February 2025. This panel will discuss the key considerations surrounding securitization and the timelines for entering the mainstream.

Rapid expansion of AI training and inferencing infrastructure is continuing the surge of investment into high-performance networks. As data center developers shift to a power-first strategy, long-haul deployment of fiber is reaching new markets presenting huge opportunity for operators.

As ISPs and FTTH operators are exploring additional revenue streams beyond basic internet services, this panel will explore the opportunities in value-added services including video, cybersecurity, open access models, and leveraging fiber for smart home applications.

Data center demand is ramping up globally, with the US poised at the forefront, growing from 25 GW to 80 GW in 2030 according to White & Case. This itself presents a broader megatrend towards both power generation and utilities and investment in transmission infrastructure and battery storage.

Mobile network operators are increasingly purchasing fiber assets to increase capacity on existing, and new, networks. It is both a commercially and technologically attractive structure, even more so with the looming shortage of available spectrum in the industry.

Public funding is a key driver of broadband deployment across the US, notable BEAD’s 42.5 billion deployment. This panel will explore allocations across state beneficiaries and how the program has developed since its inception.

Space-based technology is emerging as a solution to digital infrastructure both in connectivity and data centers, with Axiom Space and Lonestar Data Holdings as the latest in extending compute capacity beyond earth. This panel weighs up the pros and cons of this opportunity and its position versus terrestrial offerings.