The podcast discusses the future plans and predictions for major entertainment companies in 2024, including mergers and joint ventures. It explores Netflix's challenges in terms of password sharing and competition from local players. The rivalry between Netflix and Apple is explored, along with the disappointment and tension in CAA Equity. Predictions are made for the domestic box office, discussing its decline and the challenges of comparing profitability between theaters and streaming platforms.
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Quick takeaways
Paramount's struggle lies in its dependence on outdated cable channels, causing challenges in finding a buyer and potentially leading to discounts on selling.
Warner Brothers Discovery may explore or announce potential deals in 2024 to create a larger and more powerful media entity, as the Reverse Morris Trust rules expire in April.
Deep dives
Paramount's Struggles and Potential Sale
Paramount is struggling and facing the need for change. Sherry Redstone, the head of Paramount, may need to accept that she can't run the company like her father, and the world has changed. Paramount's dependence on cable channels that are no longer relevant is a major issue. Finding a buyer has been challenging due to the company's decline, leading to potential discounts on selling. The question is whether Sherry Redstone will take a lower offer just to get the deal done.
Warner Brothers Discovery and David Zaslav's Future
David Zaslav, the head of Warner Brothers Discovery, is facing challenges in keeping the cable channels alive while also finding a profitable future in streaming. April 2024 is when the Reverse Morris Trust rules expire, allowing for potential deals. It is likely that John Malone, a key shareholder, wants to combine Warner Brothers Discovery with other companies to create a larger and more powerful media entity. There may be exploration or an announcement of potential deals in the coming year.
Bob Iger's Difficulties at Disney
Bob Iger's return to Disney has not been smooth, with several challenges and activist shareholders demanding changes. Disney's creative studios, such as Pixar and Marvel, are facing difficulties that will require multi-year efforts to overcome. The situation with linear TV networks is also worsening. However, Disney's streaming business may improve financial performance with increased prices on the streaming side. Bob Iger may turn to deals and acquisitions to solve some of the company's problems, potentially focusing on bolstering ESPN or exploring the video game industry. The integration of Hulu will also be a key factor in Disney's streaming strategy.
The Future of Netflix and Potential Challenges
Netflix's dominance in the streaming market will continue, but challenges lie ahead. Crackdowns on password sharing may lead to a bump in subscriber numbers, but future growth may be harder to achieve. With increasing competition and limited market size, Netflix may need to find new levers for growth. They may explore sports content or look for ways to expand internationally into markets where they are not yet big players. However, eventually they may face a saturation point.