# ‘Public markets are pricing the quarter, not the catalog.’

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/public-markets-are-pricing-the-quarter-not-the-catalog/
- Published: 2026-11-11T18:27:38+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-11T19:56:34+00:00
- Original publisher: Music Business Worldwide
- Original article: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/public-markets-are-pricing-the-quarter-not-the-catalog/
- Topics: Business, Markets

## Key points

- Catalogue valuations are the main sticking point in deals.
- Iconic music rights command substantial premiums.
- AI licensing may become a revenue stream.

## Summary

Truist Securities entertainment banking chief Charles “CJ” Johnson says the music rights market remains active, but buyers and sellers often disagree over what a catalogue is worth. That valuation gap is shaping deal-making more than interest rates, as investors compete for iconic rights while applying greater discipline to other assets.

Iconic catalogues are trading at roughly 15 to 19 times earnings, while publishing catalogues more than 10 years old typically sell for about 12 times; iconic assets can command premiums of 50% or more. Three major transactions announced within 50 days this spring were together valued at more than $19 billion. Johnson also points to increasing market concentration, growth shifting towards India, South Korea, Latin America and the Gulf, and AI licensing as a potential, though unproven, source of revenue.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.