Universal Music Group 2024 Supercharging Growth with ‘Superfans’ and ‘Streaming 2.0’

Netflix’s stock is taking a hit as analysts warn of slower subscriber growth and market jitters due to Trump tariffs. With fewer new subscribers expected and market chaos on the horizon, investors are getting nervous. This update comes from Todd Spangler at Variety, highlighting Netflix’s growth struggles in the coming months.

Big news for Kendrick Lamar fans! Paramount+ just dropped the title and release date for his highly anticipated film, coming this May 2025. This film will give fans an inside look at Kendrick’s life, career, and artistic journey, featuring exclusive footage and behind-the-scenes moments. Hypebeast’s Joyce Li has all the details on this exciting release!

Even as the music industry slows down, Universal Music Group (UMG) is still hitting the right notes. The label behind Taylor Swift and Drake saw an 11% boost in streaming and subscription revenue, beating expectations. The Wall Street Journal reports that UMG’s smart licensing deals—like those with TikTok—are keeping the cash flowing despite a dip in ad-supported streaming.

Stephen A. Smith just landed a massive deal with ESPN—over $100 million for five years—making him one of the biggest earners in sports media. The Wall Street Journal (Joe Flint & Isabella Simonetti) reports that this contract shows ESPN is betting big on personalities, proving that in today’s media world, strong voices matter more than ever.

It’s a good day for Universal Music Group—its stock just shot up after beating subscription revenue expectations. The Wall Street Journal's Nina Kienle reports that a 10% boost in Q4 revenue, driven by higher streaming prices and continued demand, proves once again that subscriptions are the gift that keeps on giving.

Spotify is doubling down on video podcasts, hoping to rival YouTube and change how people consume content. Fast Company reports that while new features bring monetization perks, some creators worry about the extra time and costs needed to stay competitive.

Instagram is rolling out a new video editing app, but don’t expect it to boost your content’s reach. Business Insider’s Amanda Perelli & Sydney Bradley report that the CapCut competitor is packed with advanced tools and aims to keep creators from relying on TikTok-linked apps, but Meta says it won’t affect Instagram’s algorithm. Will creators make the switch? That’s the big question.

Like it or not, AI is taking over ad buying, and marketers are along for the ride. The Wall Street Journal's Patrick Coffee reports that while Google and Meta’s automated systems promise efficiency, they also leave advertisers with fewer insights into where their money goes. The big question: Are brands getting the best bang for their buck?

Gap just pulled off a holiday win, beating Wall Street’s forecasts with better-than-expected sales at Old Navy and Gap. Smart cost-cutting and inventory tweaks played a big role in boosting profits. The Wall Street Journal reports that this shows how retailers can stay ahead by fine-tuning their pricing and operations.

Breaking up isn’t always easy—just ask Vivendi. The French media giant took a massive €1.06 billion hit after splitting into four companies, a move meant to boost shareholder value. The Wall Street Journal notes that restructuring costs and asset write-downs are raising questions about whether this strategy will pay off.