Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson Stock Price, News & Analysis

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency amid ongoing media inquiries regarding a 2019 internal investigation into compliance issues in Iraq. The company cited serious breaches of its Code of Business Ethics involving improper financial practices and potential risks related to security and corruption. Although no direct links to terrorist financing were established, remedial actions have been taken, including employee exits and the termination of third-party contracts. Ericsson continues to enhance its compliance programs and is working with legal counsel to address findings from the investigation.

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) is addressing media inquiries concerning past compliance issues related to its operations in Iraq. An internal investigation conducted in 2019 revealed potential breaches of the Company's Code of Business Ethics by employees and suppliers. Following this, Ericsson implemented personnel and process remediation measures. The Company is currently reviewing the investigation in light of media findings and is prepared to take further action if necessary. Ericsson aims to maintain transparency regarding these matters.

On January 25, 2022, Ericsson reported strong financial results for Q4 and the full year 2021. Group organic sales rose by 2% in Q4 and 4% for the year, with sales in Mainland China impacting overall growth. Gross margin improved to 43.5% from 40.6%, while EBIT excluding restructuring charges reached SEK 12.3 billion, a 12% increase YoY. Net income was SEK 10.1 billion, up 41%, resulting in an EPS of SEK 3.02. The company plans to propose a dividend of SEK 2.50 per share, reflecting confidence in future growth, driven by advancements in 5G technology.

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) will release its financial report for Q4 and the full year 2021 on January 25, 2022, at 7:00 AM CET. A press release with the complete report will be published, available in PDF format on its website. CEO Börje Ekholm and CFO Carl Mellander will host a live webcast at 9:00 AM CET to discuss the report. Investors can join the event via the provided webcast link and are encouraged to call in 15 minutes early. The report will also be accessible on-demand after the event.

The Ericsson December 2021 report highlights consumer expectations for hybrid shopping experiences by 2030. A survey of early adopters reveals that almost 80% believe integrated physical and digital shopping concepts will be commonplace. The report outlines ten innovative consumer trends, including immersive beauty salons and hybrid gyms, emphasizing the role of technology like VR and AR. Notably, 35% of respondents prefer shopping malls to implement advanced technologies over homes. The report reflects insights from over 57 million early technology adopters globally.

On December 9, 2021, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) announced a commitment to empower one million children and young people by 2025 through enhanced access to digital learning and tools. This effort is part of the EDISON Alliance's 1 Billion Lives Challenge, which aids digital inclusion and aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Ericsson's 'Connect To Learn' initiative has already benefited over 200,000 youths in 25 countries. CEO Börje Ekholm emphasized the importance of digital connection for equitable access to education and skills in a digital economy.

On December 7, 2021, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) announced a partnership with Nex-Tech Wireless to launch 5G services in rural Kansas. This collaboration utilizes Ericsson's advanced 5G technologies, including Evolved Packet Core, Cloud IMS, and Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions. The enhancements aim to provide faster speeds, lower latency, and improved capacity in connectivity. Nex-Tech Wireless, supported by Ericsson, plans to deploy Radio System products and Spectrum Sharing technology, which will help in bridging the digital divide and boosting innovation in the community.

Ericsson's latest Mobility Report reveals a remarkable 300-fold increase in global mobile data traffic since 2011. By the end of 2021, 660 million 5G subscriptions are expected, driven by demand in China and North America. 5G will dominate mobile subscriptions globally by 2027, covering 75% of the population. Mobile data traffic surged 42% year-on-year in Q3 2021, totaling 78 exabytes. The report predicts that mobile data traffic could reach 370EB by 2027, spurred by a significant rise in broadband IoT connections.

Legion Partners Asset Management, a 2.2% shareholder in Vonage Holdings Corp. (NASDAQ: VG), expressed strong support for Ericsson's acquisition of Vonage for $6.2 billion, or $21 per share. Chris Kiper from Legion Partners praised the strategic transaction as a key move to enhance shareholder value, highlighting their collaborative efforts with Vonage over five years. The partnership led to the appointment of Michael McConnell to Vonage's Board, which has been pivotal in governance. This acquisition is viewed positively by Legion Partners, reflecting confidence in the future potential of Vonage's shareholders.