[MrMastodonFarm]

Down to 11.

http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/12/05/ca...ctrum-auction/

The upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction — what some call the “beachfront property” of wireless — is happening on January 14th, 2014. This sought -after spectrum can easily reach remote areas (with fewer cell sites), is cheaper for carriers to deploy, and has the ability to penetrate through thick walls in buildings, thus reducing dead spots.

A month ago, Industry Canada released the final list of bidders who will duel it out for this heavily desired wireless space. The usual suspects were there, including the Big Three; the regional carriers like SaskTel, Eastlink and MTS; and Globalive (WIND Mobile). In addition, some new players made the cut, namely Mobilicity founder John Bitove’s Feenix Wireless. Since releasing the list, some of the bidders many have dropped out for unknown reasons, specifically BH Wave Acquisition Corporation (Birch Hill), Vecima Networks Inc. and 1770129 Alberta Inc.

Late last night, another bidder opted out: Toronto-based private equity firm, Catalyst Capital Group, which happens to be one of Mobilicity’s largest bondholders. The company declined to comment on why it decided to not to participate in the upcoming auction, but perhaps patience ran out for the space, or there is a plan B in place.