The disagreement between DIRECTV (DTV) and TV network major Viacom, Inc. (VIAB) regarding programming fees has led to channel blackouts for DIRECTV customers.
Viacom network, which owns popular channels like MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central, has decided to increase its programming fees for DIRECTV users by more than 30%. Such a hefty increase in programming fees will likely increase DIRECTV’s operating expenses, hence affecting its bottom line by a significant margin.
At present, DIRECTV is paying nearly $500 million annually to Viacom for its service. So, another 30% hike will not only increase its content cost but will also lure other TV network companies to hike their rates, thus resulting in further increase in cost going forward.
So in order to counter the mounting expenses, DIRECTV will need to pass on the expenses to its subscribers, which in turn may increase its churn rate.
So the best possible way to resolve the issue is through proper negotiation as most DIRECTV subscribers pay for a complete package of channels from Viacom, including many lesser known channels. So by removing those channels from its list may reduce cost for the company.
A few days back, Dish Network Corp. (DISH) dumped AMC Networks Inc’.s (AMCX) channels from its program list as the former was demanding higher rates from Dish Network.
We believe that such instances will always appear between pay-TV and Network service providers at the time of renewal of service terms.
We maintain our long-term Neutral recommendation on DIRECTV. Currently, DIRECTV has a Zacks#3 Rank, implying a short-term Hold rating on the stock.
AMC NETWORKS- A (AMCX): Free Stock Analysis Report
DISH NETWORK CP (DISH): Free Stock Analysis Report
DIRECTV (DTV): Free Stock Analysis Report
VIACOM INC-B (VIAB): Free Stock Analysis Report
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