Telecom operator Claro, a subsidiary of America Movil, is keeping the door open to further acquisitions in Brazil following its recent agreement to acquire a controlling stake in broadband provider Desktop. According to a report by Reuters, the company is actively evaluating opportunities but remains disciplined in its deal-making approach.
Speaking to reporters in São Paulo, Claro Brazil CEO Rodrigo Marques emphasized that acquisitions must align with customer needs rather than simply expanding the company’s footprint. “We analyze all the options that come our way,” he said, while cautioning that the company does not pursue deals indiscriminately.
Claro announced last month that it would acquire a 73% stake in Desktop in a transaction valuing the company at approximately 4 billion reais (around $809 million). After accounting for Desktop’s net debt, the base equity value stands at roughly 2.4 billion reais. The acquisition reflects Claro’s strategic interest in strengthening its position in São Paulo state, Brazil’s most populous and economically significant region.
The deal is still subject to regulatory approval from Brazil’s competition authority, Administrative Council for Economic Defense, as well as telecom regulator Anatel. Marques indicated that clearance could be obtained by the end of the year.
While the Desktop acquisition is closely tied to regional market dynamics, Claro’s ambitions extend nationwide. The company already operates across Brazil and is prepared to consider additional transactions in different regions, provided they meet its strategic criteria.
Claro’s parent company, America Movil, is controlled by the family of Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, one of the most influential figures in the global telecommunications sector.
