Mega Merger: Reliance and Walt Disney India Unite

The $8.5 billion merger between Reliance and Walt Disney India has been approved by India's antitrust body, leading to India's largest entertainment business. This merger will create a powerhouse by combining 120 TV channels and two streaming platforms, challenging rivals like Sony and Netflix in a burgeoning media market.

The $8.5 billion merger of Reliance and Walt Disney India's media assets has received approval from India's antitrust body, paving the way for the creation of India's largest entertainment conglomerate. The deal, initially announced in February, aims to merge 120 TV channels and two streaming platforms, significantly intensifying competition for Japan's Sony and Netflix in a media landscape projected to be worth $100 billion by the decade's end.

Among India's leading media players, Zee Entertainment stands out. Known for its diverse range of media businesses, Zee operates around 48 TV channels and a streaming platform. Notably, a $10 billion merger with Sony collapsed in January due to unresolved conditions and leadership disputes.

Sony Pictures Networks India operates 26 channels and a streaming service, reaching 700 million Indian viewers. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video also view India as critical markets, with ambitions of significantly expanding their user bases in the country. Other notable players include Bennett Coleman and Company and Sun TV Network.

(With inputs from agencies.)