Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported total revenue guidance of $30 billion for 2026, driven by strong growth in direct-to-consumer (D2C) revenue and global profitability, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be $3.5 billion [7] - The run rate efficiency target has been increased from $2 billion to at least $3 billion [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The D2C segment achieved a total of 79 million subscribers, adding 1.4 million new subscribers in Q3, with revenue growth of 24% [9][14] - The company plans to grow theatrical output to at least 15 movies per year starting in 2026, indicating a significant increase in film production [8][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Paramount+ has achieved the largest U.S. subscription growth among major streamers, excluding bundles, and ranks as one of the top three preferred content sources among streaming services [9] - The company is focusing on international markets, particularly leveraging Pluto as a low ARPU asset to scale DTC business [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to transform Paramount into a global home for world-class storytelling, focusing on scaling its D2C business, investing in growth areas, and driving enterprise-wide efficiency [4][5] - Key priorities include investing in creative storytelling, scaling the D2C business globally, and enhancing operational efficiency to generate long-term free cash flow [5][6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to achieve its strategic goals and emphasized the importance of high-quality storytelling and technology as core competencies [10][49] - The management highlighted the need for significant investments in content and technology to drive subscriber growth and engagement [16][39] Other Important Information - The company is pursuing high-impact partnerships and expanding its creative talent roster, including collaborations with notable creators and franchises [8][9] - The integration of technology across platforms is a priority, with plans to unify multiple streaming services into one platform to enhance user experience and operational efficiency [36][37] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confidence in Paramount+ gaining global scale and content spend - Management highlighted a strong quarter for the D2C business, with a focus on increasing content investment to drive engagement and subscriber growth [14][16] Question: Investment plans for Paramount Skydance and studio turnaround - Management confirmed plans for significant investment in content, with a goal to increase film output and leverage creative partnerships for growth [21][24] Question: Updated view on TV media segment and advertising trends - Management noted the distinct trends between broadcast and cable, emphasizing the importance of CBS as a cornerstone asset while addressing the decline in cable [28][30] Question: Interrelation of tech and entertainment and revenue growth tools - Management discussed initiatives to improve technology capabilities, including unifying streaming services and enhancing ad tech to drive revenue growth [36][40] Question: M&A philosophy and balance sheet goals - Management stated a focus on building rather than acquiring, with a disciplined approach to M&A that aligns with long-term value creation [49][50] Question: UFC strategy and return on investment - Management expressed excitement about the UFC partnership, highlighting its potential to drive subscriber growth and engagement across platforms [56][58] Question: Long-term profitability of the DTC business - Management indicated that the DTC segment will be profitable next year, with a focus on improving working capital and cash tax rates to enhance free cash flow [67][71]