Little-known firm goes after realm of interactive TV
Article Abstract:
United Video Satellite Group of Tulsa, OK, a little-known firm that is 73% owned by cable company Tele-Communications Inc., recently unveiled its multi-billion-dollar campaign, in a bid to become the dominant player in the TV information and navigation services industry. Gary Howard, the CEO of United Video, surprised media leaders and investors by paying $2 billion in stock and cash to acquire TV Guide from News Corp. of Rupert Murdoch. In the second week of July 1998, Howard announced a hostile $2.8-billion offer for Gemstar International, a rival company of United Video.
Comment:
Unveils its multi-billion-dollar campaign, in a bid to become the dominant player in the TV information and navigation svcs
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 1998
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TV-station deals are in the air
Article Abstract:
Television stations are effecting record-high deals as group owners strive to sustain holdings. Walt Disney, the owner of ABC, is negotiating a $1-billion buyout of Allbritton Communications that has 11 stations. Financiers Hicks Muse Tate & Furst are considering a proposal to combine their holdings, including the seven stations of LIN Television, and Chancellor Media, a radio firm. Hearst-Argyle agreed in May 1998 to acquire the radio and TV group of Pulitzer for $1.8 billion. NBC, ABC, Fox and CBS are poised to make acquisitions.
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 1998
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Bottom line needs surgery: costs soaring, fewer TV watchers tuning in
Article Abstract:
US television broacasting companies have collectively lost 9% of their viewership in 1998 compared to the 1997 season. The development has led to calls for reforms in the industry which will see only one company, NBC, post positive earnings for 1998. The rest of the industry, which include Fox, UPN, WB, CBS and ABC, are worried that the continuing poor performance of the broadcasting industry will result in advertisers' refusal to pay premium advertising rates.
Publication Name: USA Today
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0734-7456
Year: 1998
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Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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