Viacom18 gets regulatory nod for TV Channel transfer to Star

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has given approval for  the transfer of TV channel licenses from Viacom18 to Star India, setting the stage for a major media merger. This $8.5 billion deal unites Reliance-owned Viacom18 and Walt Disney's Star India, forming a media giant with 117 channels spanning various genres.

The merged company will feature a diverse range of content, including general entertainment, sports, children's, and youth programming. With this approval, the merger, initially announced on February 28, is now closer to completion, having already received clearance from the National Company Law Tribunal and the Competition Commission of India.

Key Merger Highlights:

• Extensive Reach: 117 channels covering entertainment, sports, kids, and youth programming.
• Ownership Structure: Reliance will hold a 56% stake, Walt Disney 37%, and Bodhi Tree Systems (Uday Shankar and James Murdoch) 7%.
• Leadership: Nita Ambani will serve as chairperson, with Uday Shankar as vice-chairperson.
• Financial Outlook: The entity is projected to generate $2.8 billion in revenue, with an anticipated EBITDA loss of $200 million for fiscal 2024.