Airtel DTH and Dish TV are in ‘exploratory’ talks to merge their DTH businesses, The Economic Times reported recently. The talks are at the exploratory stage,” said one of the persons. “Idea is to consolidate operations and give a strong fight to Reliance Jio. Together, Airtel Digital TV and Dish TV will be a giant.” the report reads.
Key points
- If this deal finalizes, the combined entity will become the world’s largest TV distribution company with over 38 million subscribers and 61% DTH market share in India.
- Tata Sky holds the 2nd position with 16 million subscribers. Sun Direct and Independent TV are the only other players in the paid niche, whereas DD Free Dish is free to air TV network.
- Last year, Dish TV successfully completed a merger with Videocon D2h and became India’s #1 DTH network beating Tata Sky.
- Both Airtel and Dish TV have refused to comment over this deal.
Jio effect?
Also Read: Report Shows Jio GigaFiber Could be 50% Cheaper Than Existing Players
Experts believe that this deal is possible as Jio has taken control of Hathway Cable & Datacom and DEN Networks to expand its television and broadband operations. Interestingly, Essel Group, led by Subhash Chandra and his family has been looking to sell a stake in some units to reduce debt.
