Vodafone's Strong Connection

We maintain our Buy recommendation for Vodafone Group PLC (VOD), the largest revenue generating international wireless carrier. The company's recent operating results are highlighted by strong growth in overall subscriber count bolstered by record customer additions in its Indian operation.

Additionally, solid growth in service revenue from emerging markets (in Asia and the Middle East) has been accompanied by sequentially improved results across most of the major European markets. Meanwhile, Vodafone continues to accelerate 3G wireless service deployments and expanding network availability across Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa, primarily through acquisitions.

Also, the company is focused on improving shareholder returns through sustainable dividend payouts, which supports our valuation forecasts. Vodafone raised its financial forecasts for fiscal 2009 and is increasingly focused on restructuring and cost saving to improve operational efficiency in core markets.

Anindya Barman contributed to this report.

Read the full analyst report on VOD