Despite wireless gains, Q1 profits at BCE drop 13.5%

MONTREAL – Despite an uptick in revenues driven by its wireless division, BCE saw its first quarter profits dragged down by a $137 million charge related to its satellite TV signal piracy lawsuit with rival Quebecor, the company said Thursday.For the period ended March 31, 2015, net earnings attributable to common shareholders of $532 million was down 13.5% from $615 million in the same period last year. Adjusted net earnings were $705 million, up from $626 million last year, reflecting a 3.6% adjusted EBITDA increase to $2.1 billion, reduced non-controlling interest as a result of the Bell Aliant privatization, and lower...