Modest growth at Bell led by wireless and video, buys Virgin Mobile

MONTREAL – Bell Canada saw its operating revenue for its first quarter fall 0.5% to $3.6 billion, but operating income rose 36.9% to reach $649 million. EBITDA grew by 0.3% to $1.426 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2009. Growth in wireless, video, and data revenues were offset by declines in local and access, long distance, and equipment and other revenues. Lower restructuring costs helped sustain the jump in operating income, the press release detailed. The Bell Wireless segment had 35,000 postpaid net activations this quarter, 25% more than last year, while total net activations were 30,000, reflecting a drop of...