Mumbai, India: In a major development for the Indian media landscape, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and The Walt Disney Company (Disney) have signed a definitive agreement to merge their media operations in India. The deal, expected to be announced officially soon, is a significant step for both companies, creating a powerful combined entity in the competitive Indian media market.
Key details of the merger:
- Reliance will hold a majority stake (61%) in the merged entity, while Disney will retain the remaining 39%.
- The merger will combine Viacom18, owned by Reliance, with Star and Disney+ Hotstar, owned by Disney, creating a formidable player in television, streaming, and content production.
- The combined entity will benefit from a wider content library, including popular Indian and international shows, movies, and sports rights.
- The deal is expected to strengthen Reliance’s position in the growing Indian media market, while Disney unlocks greater market reach and potential for its content.
This merger is seen as a strategic win-win for both companies. Reliance gains access to Disney’s global content library and expertise, while Disney gains a strong local partner to navigate the complex Indian market.
Industry experts anticipate that the combined entity will have a significant impact on the Indian media landscape, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation in the sector.
This news follows months of negotiations between the two companies, signifying a significant step towards finalizing the deal. The official announcement and further details regarding the timeline and operational structure of the merged entity are expected soon.
