DirecTV (DTV) is setting up a partnership with Current Group to sell broadband that is delivered over powerlines. The product uses the existing wiring from the utilities to send a high speed signal that can be used for internet connections and VoIP.
The technology for using electrical wiring to deliver internet signals has been around for several years and is already used to power security cameras and home audio. It is only recently that it has been deployed on a larger scale. A small number of tiny public companies like Ambient (ABTG) have been working with utility companies for several years.
The big problem with the DirecTV plan is that Current only has deployments in Cincinnati and Dallas. It may take years for the company to set up distribution with other utilities operators.
By then, AT&T (T) and Verizon (VZ) will be in the market full force with their fiber-to-the-home products locked in a fight to the death with cable. It will be too late for DirecTV to have much of a piece of the market. And, with only TV and no voice or broadband, sat TV will be the odd man out.
Douglas A. McIntyre
Are You Still Paying With a Debit Card?
The average American spends $17,274 on debit cards a year, and it’s a HUGE mistake. First, debit cards don’t have the same fraud protections as credit cards. Once your money is gone, it’s gone. But more importantly you can actually get something back from this spending every time you swipe.
Issuers are handing out wild bonuses right now. With some you can earn up to 5% back on every purchase. That’s like getting a 5% discount on everything you buy!
Our top pick is kind of hard to imagine. Not only does it pay up to 5% back, it also includes a $200 cash back reward in the first six months, a 0% intro APR, and…. $0 annual fee. It’s quite literally free money for any one that uses a card regularly. Click here to learn more!
Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings to provide coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
Our expert who first called NVIDIA in 2009 is predicting 2025 will see a historic AI breakthrough.
You can follow him investing $500,000 of his own money on our top AI stocks for free.