RTL grabs Sky Germany for 150 million euros - what now?

RTL grabs Sky Germany for 150 million euros - what now?

What bridges in the media landscape sounds like a big hit. RTL Germany has officially announced that Sky Germany for 150 million euros. This deal was announced on Friday, June 27, 2025 and could have far-reaching effects on the German streaming market. CEO Stephan Schmitter described the purchase as a "unique opportunity" to create a leading platform for streaming and TV. Currently, the takeover is still examined more closely by the antitrust authorities to check the competitive conditions. And that is also necessary, because the RTL Group is still planning serious financial steps as part of the deal.

In addition to the fixed payment of 150 million euros, RTL even has the option of adding up to 377 million euros if the stock value of the RTL group increases to 70 euros. The course is currently around 31.70 euros. A approval of the competitive authorities is also pending because the Bertelsmann Group, which holds 75 percent of RTL, exceeds the sales threshold of 5 billion euros. An exciting preliminary plane for RTL, which aims to polish the streaming area properly.

streaming potential and market share

If everything is approved, companies such as RTL, RTL+, Sky and the streaming service WoW would soon act under a common roof. Overall, the new company would then have around 11.5 million paying subscribers in the streaming area. By taking over, RTL not only expects a “streaming boost”, but also annual synergy effects of an estimated 250 million euros within three years. An interesting business model that could significantly increase the competitive pressure on providers such as ProSiebenSat.1 Media.

The conversation about the takeover did not happen without reason; RTL was previously confronted with competition law concerns that put the cooperation with ProSiebenSat.1 Media in the room. It is all the more exciting that RTL has now found a strong partner with Sky whose potential to raise.

regulatory need in the streaming sector

Computerbase , the first steps to combat manipulation allegations were initiated. The EU Parliament's Culture Committee has given up suggestions to improve remuneration standards for artists and how to deal with streaming platforms. The EU wants to show responsibility and protect the diversity and the rights of the artists.

The streaming platforms will in future disclose their algorithms and recommendation tools in order to ensure transparent handling. This advance could shape the industry sustainably and benefit from particularly smaller artists who have so far often fallen under the table.

This is how a storm moves through the media and streaming landscape, and it remains exciting how things will develop. It will become clear in the coming months whether RTL can actually finalize the purchase and what effects this has on the entire industry.