Why M1's spending is expected to remain high

It could shell out $188m just for its 700MHz spectrum.

Singapore telco M1 is expected to reflect higher spending in its coming yearly results.

According to DBS Group Research analyst Sachin Mittal, the higher capital expenditures M1 has in store for this year and the next is due to the spectrum payments it has to settle.

Aside from the $150m capex this year, M1 is expected to shell out another $20m for the 900MHz spectrum it got from the auction.

"We assume $188m for the 700MHz spectrum to be paid in 2018 although there is no fixed time frame yet," the analyst said.

However, Mittal noted that M1's cash generation and flexibility to further lever its balance sheet will be sufficient to support current and future spectrum needs and network expansion plans.