The highly anticipated merger between Disney’s Media Assets and Viacom18 is progressing smoothly, with the transaction expected to close by the third quarter of FY25. This merger, part of a broader strategic alliance, has already received approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI), moving it closer to completion.
This merger aims to consolidate the entertainment businesses under a unified platform, which will significantly enhance the operations of both companies. Viacom18’s subscription-based content has been thriving, especially through JioCinema, which recently surpassed 16 million paid subscribers, driven by popular shows like Bigg Boss OTT.
The companies are now in the final stages of securing remaining regulatory approvals. Once completed, the merger is set to reshape the digital media landscape in India. With upcoming coverage of the Paris Olympics and other high-profile content, both companies are preparing to leverage their combined assets to strengthen their foothold in the Indian market.
This merger is part of a larger trend of consolidation within the media industry, highlighting the growing importance of scale and diverse content offerings to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving digital entertainment space.
Key Highlights:
- Approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) received.
- Merger expected to close by Q3 FY25.
- JioCinema sees strong growth, reaching over 16 million paid subscribers.
This strategic move aligns with Viacom18 and Disney’s broader vision of creating a unified media powerhouse, poised to capitalize on the future of entertainment in India.
