First National Bank (FNB) are thought to be in discussions with mobile operator Cell C over becoming a functioning mobile virtual network operator (MVNO).
No concrete statements have been made with regards to the reports, and Virginia Magapatona, head of corporate communications for FNB, gave very few details in her statement on the matter.
Should the rumours be true, FNB as an MVNO would offer its own mobile services, utilising its own SIM cards, but would operate through Cell C’s network.
“FNB has a telco license and as such is already able to provide voice and data services. We also offer free calls via FNB connect. As one of the largest bulk SMS and airtime distributors, we have relationships with all mobile network operators and will continue to work closely with all parties,” said Magapatona.
Speaking more directly on the MVNO rumours, Magapatona said: “We continue to hold confidential discussions with various operators, and we will only be in a position to formally announce any new features or customer benefits once launched.”
Currently, Virgin Mobile SA are the only MVNO in South Africa, but Orange’s recent partnership with Nashua Mobile is thought to preclude a move into the MVNO market by the giant French telecommunications company.
