Distribution

Who Will Own the Future of Filmed Entertainment? Inside the Great Media Power Grab

Traditional media powerhouses are fighting to maintain relevance amid digital disruption. In 2024, more than 50% of media M&A deals involved cross-sector acquisitions, reflecting a strategic pivot towards owning intellectual property (IP) that can be monetized across multiple platforms.

Broadcast & PayTV

The Broadcast Boom: Why Traditional TV Still Matters in a Streaming World

As streaming platforms continue to dominate the conversation, traditional broadcast networks are proving their staying power by strategically aligning with digital platforms. New data confirms that network television still commands a substantial audience, with streaming partnerships extending its reach and influence.

Distribution

Finding Licensing Gold: Why Some Shows Are Worth More Off Their Home Platform

Streaming services are reevaluating their financial playbooks, balancing the high costs of direct-to-consumer services with the steady returns of third-party licensing deals. With studios weighing the financial viability of streaming-first strategies against the profitability of licensing, the industry is at an inflection point where content ownership alone may not be enough to drive sustainable growth.

Distribution

Paramount’s New Slate Financing Deal and the Complexities of Film Investment

Paramount Pictures has recently entered into a significant slate financing agreement with Domain Capital Group, aiming to bolster its film production capabilities. This partnership reflects a strategic move to mitigate financial risk by diversifying investments across multiple films. However, the intricate nature of such deals has historically led to legal disputes, particularly concerning the transparency of financial practices.

Distribution

Amazon MGM Studios Charts New Course with International Distribution Ambitions

Amazon MGM Studios plans to launch its own international theatrical distribution division as its deal with Warner Bros. expires at the end of 2025. This strategic move aims to enhance control over global film releases, maximizes revenue potential, and demonstrates Amazon’s commitment to theatrical models following its $8.5 billion MGM acquisition.

Production

Is Hollywood Worth Saving? The Harsh Reality Facing L.A. in 2025

Hollywood is facing an existential crisis as production declines, jobs vanish, and competition intensifies from regions offering better incentives. Wildfires have further destabilized the industry, while creative stagnation persists. Tax incentives may not suffice to reclaim prominence. 2025 holds critical potential for reform, or Hollywood may falter irreparably.

Streaming

Beyond Binge Watching: Ads, Sports, and Telecoms Are Steering Streaming Back to Cable’s Playbook

The U.S. streaming market is saturated, with 96% of households subscribed to services, prompting a shift from acquisition to retention strategies. Ad-supported models are gaining traction as affordability overshadows uninterrupted viewing. Live sports and telecom partnerships are key growth areas, while brand ecosystems are vital for subscriber retention in this maturing landscape.

Streaming

One Platform to Rule Them All: Aggregation Will Alter Streaming Markets in 2025

Standalone SVOD services are experiencing a shift as consumers grapple with rising costs and subscription stacking. Many are turning to video aggregators, which simplify access but risk escalating prices. The market may soon consist of fewer standalone players alongside aggregators, highlighting the necessity for service bundling to reduce churn and enhance consumer convenience.

Distribution

2024 in Review: Netflix Reigns, Roku Rises, Theaters Falter, and Trends Shaping 2025

In 2024, the media industry faced significant challenges, with domestic box office revenues falling sharply due to delays and a lack of original content. Contrarily, free ad-supported streaming platforms like Roku gained traction, indicating a shift towards cost-effective viewing. The industry grapples with evolving strategies amid ongoing mergers and the rise of library content.