Metro Connect 2027 agenda

The fiber industry is entering a new phase of transformation. While the last decade was defined by network expansion, FTTH growth, and market consolidation, the next wave of consolidation will be shaped by AI, cloud infrastructure, hyperscale connectivity, and the growing demand for high-capacity networks. As investors become more selective and operators seek greater scale, the traditional playbook of acquisitions and roll-ups is evolving. Joint ventures, infrastructure partnerships, wholesale platforms, and new capital structures are emerging alongside a broader shift towards networks that can support AI workloads, data center ecosystems, and enterprise demand. This panel will explore how fiber investment strategies are changing, what the next generation of consolidation will look like, and which assets are likely to attract the greatest investor interest over the next decade. ' How are operators using new structures to expand their footprints and why are they more attractive than traditional acquisitions? ' What lessons can be learned from recent fiber consolidation transactions and infrastructure partnerships? ' How will emerging fiber operators, focused on high capacity networks, impact the investment landscape across fiber?