PwC: Competition for Multi-Channel Networks Set to Rise

NEW YORK: The race to acquire multi-channel networks (MCNs) that appeal to younger audiences will be one of the main drivers of M&A activity in the entertainment, media and communications industries this year, PwC reports.

PwC has just released its Q1 US Entertainment, Media & Communications Deal Insights report. There were 209 deals announced in the period, stable with last year’s 216. Deal value, however, soared from about $33 billion to $74 billion, led by “megadeals” such as Comcast’s acquisition of Time Warner Cable.

Looking ahead, activity among film, TV and other video content providers will remain strong throughout 2014, potentially surpassing last year’s deal volume. “This is driven by continued interest in traditional TV content, as well as digital content, as companies look to establish their position in the digital ecosystem,” the report said.

In Q1 so far, there have been 15 film/TV/digital content deals, valued at $20 million. Cross-border deals rose to nine from five in Q1 2013, with six American companies acquired by international outfits and three international companies acquired by U.S. interests.

Of particular interest are MCNs. “Major media companies have begun targeting MCNs for acquisition in the race to engage and entertain younger digital audiences, and to build up new capabilities critical to their video entertainment success. To do so, they can develop capabilities in-house or look externally for acquisitions. Judging by the recent M&A volume, they’re increasingly choosing the latter."