Telecom operator Suntel, says its profits soared to Rs. 200.4 mn in 2002, from Rs. 22.8 mn.
Suntel benefited from the prevalent low interest rates, while value added services and a tariff increase pushed revenues up by Rs.
400 mn.rn
rnRevenues rose to Rs. 3.58 bn from Rs. 3.156 bn in 2001. Cost of sales was up marginally to Rs.
566.52 mn from Rs. 504.12 mn during the period.rn
rnSuntels finance costs fell to Rs. 769.86 mn from Rs. 842.99 mn during the period, reflecting a gradual drop in interest rates.
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rnThe teleco reported an earnings per share of Rs. 0.59 from Rs. 0.07.rn
rnTelecom analysts expect profits in the next two-years would erase over Rs. 1 bn in accumulated losses, made since its inception in 1996.
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rnAs at Dec. 31, 2002 Suntels subscriber base has grown to 72,610, with its coverage spread over the districts of Colombo, Kalutara, Gampaha, Galle, Kandy, Kurunegala and Anuradhapura.
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rnTelia AB of Swenden manages and has taken a key stake in the company. Other key shareholde