The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that BCE continues to count on its high-speed Internet and wireless services for growth and says its strategy is on track even as its share price has wilted in the face of rising interest rates. The Globe's Christine Dobby writes that the big telco said Thursday it attracted more new wireless customers on contract in the first quarter than expected, winning 68,487 new subscribers versus analyst estimates of about 55,000. It also signed up more new broadband customers than this time last year as it increases marketing for its improved fibre-to-the-home service, which it is still rolling out in the Greater Toronto Area. BCE's financial figures were in line with expectations, showing revenue growth of almost 5 per cent and profit up more than 3 per cent. Its shares, however, are down more than 15 per cent since the beginning of the year as rising interest rates have drawn investors away from the stock known for its reliable dividend. BCE chief executive officer George Cope told shareholders at the company's annual meeting in Toronto that he is confident BCE has made the right bets, including investing billions in fibre optic wiring, and its push to build a 5G network.