Peacock's next growth bet isn't a blockbuster show or sports deal. NBCU's flagship streaming service is plotting to sell add-on subscriptions to other specialty streamers on its platform, four people familiar with the plans told Business Insider.Peacock has approached streamers about selling subscriptions to offer viewers content that complements its reality and sports-heavy line-up, these people said. Peacock expects to start with one streamer this year and is likely to limit the offering to a small number ...

Core Insights - The discussion revolves around the potential merger scenarios between Netflix and Warner Brothers Discovery versus Paramount Skydance, highlighting the differences in their business models and market positions [1][2][3] Group 1: Company Comparisons - Netflix is characterized as a "streaming first" company, while Warner Brothers and Paramount are traditional TV and film companies with streaming services added [2] - A merger between Netflix and Warner Brothers Discovery would represent a significant shift, as it would be the first major streaming service acquiring a company of Warner Brothers' size [3] - Paramount Plus currently has about 80 million subscribers globally, which is a solid growth trajectory but still smaller than Netflix, Amazon, or Disney Plus [5][6] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The overlap between Warner Brothers and Paramount suggests that a merger would lead to more predictable outcomes, potentially positioning Paramount among the top three media companies [7] - The competitive landscape remains intense, with YouTube being a significant player, currently about a third larger than Netflix in the U.S. [12] - Analysts express a preference for Warner Brothers Discovery to remain independent to maintain competition and prevent layoffs in the industry [11] Group 3: Strategic Considerations - The potential merger raises questions about content production and consumer value, with a focus on how to create long-term value and better serve consumers [10] - If Netflix were to acquire Warner Brothers, it could lead to new business models, such as offering niche streaming services through its platform, similar to Amazon Channels [17] - Paramount's strategy appears to be more aligned with traditional media, making it more comfortable with the assets it would acquire compared to Netflix's approach [19]