Important Phone Calls For Vertel

BusinessWeek Investor -- Inside Wall Street

Important Phone Calls for Vertel

When Vertel (VRTL), a provider of software for telecom networks, announced on Apr. 26 that Nokia had opted to use its products, Vertel's stock jumped six points, to 20. That was a big boost after the stock's precipitous plunge from 45 in the wake of the market sell-off that began in late March.

Vertel's software facilitates the interconnection of diverse communication systems. It enables such devices as cellular phones to become an integral part of a company's network. In the case of Nokia, a major supplier of cellular phones, Vertel's software will improve the flexibility and speed of Nokia's interfacing network.

Vertel's stock has since slid to 15 5/8. But not to worry, says one California money manager, who is betting that Vertel's stock will move toward the old highs.

He says two more telecom giants--Ericsson and Nortel Networks--will soon announce their selection of Vertel's software. Ericsson makes advanced systems and products for wired- and mobile-phone networks. Nortel provides telephone, data, wireless, and wireline products and services for the Internet.

Other companies that already use Vertel's software include Compaq Computer, Alcatel, and Palm Computing.By Gene G. MarcialReturn to top

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