Reliance and Disney Forge a Landmark Joint Venture to Revolutionize Entertainment in India
In an unprecedented move, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Viacom 18 Media Private Limited (Viacom18), and The Walt Disney Company have entered into definitive agreements to launch a joint venture (JV) that promises to transform the entertainment landscape in India. This JV aims to consolidate the businesses of Viacom18 and Star India, creating a powerhouse in the entertainment and sports sectors.
With an investment of ₹11,500 crore (approximately US$ 1.4 billion) from RIL at the culmination of this deal, the JV is valued at a staggering ₹70,352 crore (around US$ 8.5 billion) on a post-money basis, excluding potential synergies. Following these transactions, RIL will gain significant control, holding a 16.34% stake, alongside Viacom18’s 46.82% and Disney’s 36.84%.
Mrs. Nita M. Ambani is set to take the helm as the Chairperson of the JV, with Mr. Uday Shankar serving as the Vice Chairperson, providing strategic oversight. This partnership is poised to become India’s premier destination for TV and digital streaming, merging iconic media properties across both entertainment – including Colors, StarPlus, and StarGOLD – and sports – incorporating Star Sports and Sports18. Moreover, it promises unparalleled access to highly anticipated television and digital events, made available through platforms like JioCinema and Hotstar.
This JV strategy is not just about scale; it’s about dynamism and digital transformation aimed at delivering an unmatched content experience to over 750 million viewers across India and the global Indian diaspora. The synergy of Viacom18 and Star India’s media expertise, bolstered by advanced technology and a broad content library, will enrich the JV’s offering with a mix of domestic and international entertainment and live sports streaming. Furthermore, the addition of Disney’s lauded films and shows will enrich Viacom18’s portfolio, promising a fresh, accessible, and engaging digital entertainment experience.
As a part of this groundbreaking collaboration, the JV will acquire exclusive rights to distribute Disney films and productions within India, alongside a license surpassing 30,000 Disney content assets. This strategic move ensures a comprehensive suite of entertainment options catering to the diverse tastes of the Indian audience.
Mr. Mukesh D Ambani, Chairman & Managing Director of Reliance Industries, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “This is a landmark agreement that heralds a new era in the Indian entertainment industry… we are very excited at forming this strategic joint venture that will help us… deliver unparalleled content at affordable prices to audiences across the nation. We welcome Disney as a key partner of Reliance group.”
Disney’s CEO, Mr. Bob Iger, echoed this sentiment, recognizing the vast potential of the Indian market and the opportunities this JV presents in creating sustainable, long-term value. Mr. Uday Shankar, reflecting on the partnership, highlighted the commitment to delivering exceptional value to audiences, advertisers, and partners, aligning with the vision of making Digital India a global exemplar.
Set to complete in late 2024 or early 2025, the transaction awaits regulatory, shareholder, and customary approvals. With financial and legal advisors, including Goldman Sachs, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, and various others providing counsel, this JV is geared towards making a significant impact on India’s digital transformation journey and entertainment landscape.
This initiative marks not only a significant milestone for the involved corporations but also for the Indian entertainment industry. With its comprehensive approach towards offering quality content and transforming digital media consumption, the Reliance-Disney JV is poised to redefine entertainment for millions of viewers in India and beyond.
