Cable Faces Uphill Consumer Climb With Mobile Service, Macquarie Analyst Says

Most consumers seem uninterested in wireless service from cable providers, bolstering the idea that a cable-wireless deal, such as cable/Verizon or cable/Sprint/T-Mobile, is likely someday, Macquarie analyst Amy Yong emailed investors Wednesday. Pointing to its survey of 100 consumers, Macquarie said 74 percent say the most they would pay for cable-branded wireless service is less than their current wireless bill, and 77 percent said they wouldn't switch from their current provider for either Xfinity's unlimited data or usage-based plan. Macquarie said 10 percent spend upward of $100 a month on wireless service, down sizably from its February survey, reflecting unlimited data plans becoming the norm. It said 64 percent said they value Wi-Fi more than mobile, down from 77 percent, raising the likelihood of wireless substitution.