Spectrum, Stations, and Servers: Three Policy Shifts Reshaping TMT in 2026

The latest "MediaTalk" podcast unpacks three regulatory developments transforming the tech, media, and telecom sectors:

Spectrum Auction Returns: The FCC is set to auction 160 megahertz of upper C-band spectrum by July 2027 — the first auction in years. This mid-band spectrum will supercharge 5G and fixed wireless capabilities, with commercial service launching in major markets by 2030.

Broadcast Ownership Cap Eliminated: The FCC repealed the decades-old 39% national ownership cap for TV station ownership. This controversial move could trigger a consolidation wave in local broadcasting, though antitrust scrutiny and legal challenges loom large.

Data Center Backlash: Communities nationwide are pushing back on data center development. From Wisconsin to New York, voters and local governments are implementing moratoriums, citing concerns about electricity costs, grid strain, and resource allocation. 

As midterm elections approach, these issues are moving from regulatory debates to campaign platforms. Will political pressure translate into lasting policy changes?

More S&P Global content:

Local governments push back against data center development

Featured experts:

• Stefan Modrich, tech policy reporter for S&P Global Market Intelligence 

Credits:

• Host/Author: Mike Reynolds
• Producer/Editor: Sarah James

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