Jordan Pinto
Crave, specialty and sports drive uptick for Bell Media in Q4
Ad revenue was “relatively stable,” with entertainment, sports and OOH offset soft conventional and radio performances.
BTLR’s 97 recommendations include an ad-free CBC in five years
The report’s recommendations also include subjecting streaming services to spending obligations toward Canadian content, and collecting and publishing consumption data.
Netflix’s Q4 shows growth slowing in Canada
The streamer is also changing the way it reports its video viewership.
Growing TV ad revenue offsets radio declines at Corus
Television revenue hit $430 million for the first quarter of 2020, while merchandising and distribution revenue was also on the rise.
Supreme Court overturns CRTC’s Super Bowl simsub ban
Canada’s highest court ruled that the Commission “went beyond [its] power” by introducing the ban, which came into effect in 2017.
Cineplex to be acquired by Cineworld Group
The $2.8-billion deal is expected to close in the first half of 2020, giving the company access to “global opportunities” to help it compete.
Competitors unaffected as Disney+ hits 15 million downloads: report
According to estimates from U.S. research firm Apptopia, the Disney+ app has been downloaded around 1.1 million times in Canada.
Corus defends its CanCon flexibility request
“Fundamentally, Corus seeks additional timing flexibility, nothing more. No spending reductions will result,” said the media company.
Disney+ lays down the gauntlet, adds 10M subs on first day
Despite a number of technical glitches, the streaming service exceeded expectations in its launch in the U.S., Canada and Netherlands.
Corus’ request for CanCon flexibility met with opposition
The entertainment giant has asked the CRTC fo increase its maximum “under-expenditure” on Canadian programming, and some guilds are unhappy.
Five biggest SVODs will have half-billion subs by 2025: report
Of the new streamers, Disney will comfortably lead the pack with 101 million subscriber additions within five years, says Digital TV Research.
Bell Media gets exclusive rights to HBO Max programming
The play gives Bell Media the flexibility to bring programming to both its linear network and its Crave SVOD.
TV ad revenue drives growth at Corus in Q4
“What a difference a year makes,” said CEO Doug Murphy, noting Corus’ 7% growth in its TV ad business for the year.
TVO’s chief exec steps down
The veteran broadcast exec departs the provincial broadcaster after 14 years at the helm.
Liberals highlight digital media taxes in election platform
The mandate also includes strengthening the regional mandate of CBC/Radio-Canada.
