Canal+ Posts Big H1 Gains Thanks To $2B Deal For Africa’s MultiChoice
Canal+, the European pay-TV operator, saw its first-half revenues and earnings increase substantially following its $2 billion acquisition of South Africa's MultiChoice. The company reported total revenues of approximately €4.3 billion with adjusted operating earnings of €433 million. However, the impressive growth figures depend heavily on the MultiChoice addition; the company's underlying organic expansion remained modest at roughly 1.4% year-on-year, indicating relatively flat performance in its existing business.
The acquisition is proving strategically valuable, with Canal+ achieving half of its €250 million synergy target ahead of schedule. The company has implemented significant operational changes in Africa, notably discontinuing the Showmax streaming service after it produced substantial losses. Meanwhile, Canal+'s production division performed well with successful theatrical releases and major film deals, and the company has secured long-term sporting rights for African markets including South African professional soccer and upcoming rugby world cups, strengthening its content position in the region.
- Canal+ H1 revenues grew 40% to €4.3B, largely from the $2B MultiChoice acquisition; underlying organic growth was only 1.4%
- Company hit 50% of its €250M cost-reduction target and discontinued the loss-making Showmax streaming service
- Production arm Studiocanal performed strongly; sports content deals secured for South African soccer and rugby