Seismic changes coming for pay TV
Nov 13 2014, 20:46 ET | By: Clark Schultz, SA News Editor [Contact this editor with comments or a news tip]
Sony's (NYSE:SNE) new online TV package will price at $60 to $70 per month, estimates Re/code.
It's a level that is twice what Dish Network (NASDAQ
ISH) plans to charge for a slimmer package, although one that includes ESPN.
Programming on the Sony streaming service will feature shows from CBS, Discovery Communications, Fox, NBC, Scripps Networks, and Viacom.
The pitch from the Japanese media giant is that cord-cutters will be drawn in by the captivating way of accessing the content through gaming consoles. A cutting-edge discovery and recommendations service for users is also highlighted by execs.
Regulatory watch: Potential rule changes from the FCC could level the playing field for the new streamers as they work out their content deals.
What to watch: A fragmented pay-TV landscape could benefit content producers (DISCA, CBS, FOXA, DIS, LGF, TWX, AMCX) in the short-term as competition heats up, while creating a pricing headache for cable/satellite/telco players (CMCSA, CVC, CHTR, DISH, T, DTV, VZ, TWC).
The Netflix factor: Many media analysts consider Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) an add-on for consumers - instead of an either/or decision with online TV.
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