CAMARILLO, Calif., March 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) today announced a major distribution expansion for its streaming television network, Salem News Channel. Just two weeks after launching on the Amazon Prime Video FAST channel platform, Salem News Channel is now expanding to The Roku Channel, one of the leading free, ad-supported streaming destinations in the U.S., further accelerating its reach across key streaming audiences. With this launch, Salem News Channel joins Roku’s FAS ...

Core Viewpoint - The FCC's approval of the merger between Paramount and Skydance Media has alleviated uncertainties regarding Paramount's future, with the stock price showing a slight increase ahead of the market opening [1][2]. Group 1: Merger Details - The merger involves Skydance paying $4.5 billion to acquire a portion of Paramount's Class B shares at $15 each, while also acquiring controlling interest through Redstone's family holding company for $2.4 billion [1][11]. - The FCC's approval followed a lengthy review process of over 250 days, allowing the transfer of 28 licenses for CBS stations to the Skydance-led ownership group [2][10]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - Analysts highlight the need for Skydance leadership to address strategic questions and improve profitability at Paramount, with a focus on the future of its linear networks [3][4]. - There is speculation about whether Skydance will maintain Paramount's cable network business or consider divesting those assets to enhance growth [5][6]. Group 3: Financial Considerations - The deal will result in Skydance owning 100% of New Paramount Class A Shares and approximately 69% of Class B shares, equating to about 70% of the pro forma shares outstanding [12]. - The upcoming earnings season will be critical for understanding the new ownership's plans, with expectations for clarity on strategic direction by the Q3 reporting date in November [4]. Group 4: Content and Streaming Strategy - Analysts are keen to see how the merged entity will approach its streaming strategy, particularly regarding partnerships and content investment, especially in relation to Paramount+ and Pluto TV [8]. - The future of sports rights, particularly the NFL contract, is also a significant concern, as the merger triggers a change-of-control clause that may lead to renegotiation [7].

Group 1 - Disney's business strategy focuses on bundling streaming services with its linear television channels to reach a broader audience [1][2] - The company reported a 1.4 million increase in Disney+ subscriptions, bringing the total to 126 million, surpassing investor expectations [2] - Disney's linear TV programming, particularly in sports, is growing and supports its streaming service by activating the entire library when new seasons air [3] Group 2 - Disney announced a stand-alone ESPN streaming service priced at $29.99 per month, which is discounted when bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for a total of $35.99 [4] - The company emphasizes its "unique ecosystem" that differentiates it from competitors, leveraging its iconic characters and stories across various platforms [5]