FASTTAKES: Singtel, Batelco, MIIT, Willcom, Softbank, Tata, SKT

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Singtel is reportedly planning to float 25% of its Australian unit Optus, which could raise A$4 billion ($3.7 billion) to fund the firm’s regional M&A plans.

The Batelco Group has agreed to sell 11% of its stake in BMIC, owner of a 49% stake in Indian cellco S-Tel, to Bahrain-based investment bank Global Banking for an undisclosed sum.

China’s 3G users will reach 60 million by year-end, forecasts an expert linked to the MIIT.

State-affiliated fund, the Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corp. of Japan, and Softbank are expected to emerge with stakes in troubled PHS operator Willcom as part of the firm’s bail-out.

Thai communications minister Ranongruk Suwunchwee said 3G was the ministry’s no. 1 priority for 2010, and she pledged that 3G networks would cover all of Thailand within two years.

India’s Department of Telecommunications is considering fining Singtel for allegedly offering IDD services in India without a license, according to reports.

Tata Communications and Australia-based Wi-Fi solutions provider Tomizone have combined to offer home Wi-Fi services to Tata’s broadband customers.

SK Telecom reportedly plans to launch 15 smartphones this year, with up to 13 devices being powered by Google’s Android OS.