Comcast is reportedly considering acquiring Roku or a possible tie-up with ViacomCBS as it looks to establish itself in the streaming world.
According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts is exploring ways to accelerate the company’s streaming expansion.
Comcast launched its Peacock streaming service in the US in July 2020. According to the report it has so far only attracted 10 million paying subscribers, which is prompting speculation Roberts could look to increase the company’s streaming presence by buying established streaming platforms such as Roku.
The option could be to acquires ViacomCBS, which analysts have speculated could be subject to a take over for some time. According to Bloomberg Intelligence analysts, acquiring ViacomCBS and its Paramount Plus service, would make Comcast a contender for the third biggest company in the streaming industry, behind Netflix and Disney.
However, the analysts warned any acquisition would be “fraught with regulatory challenges,” and cost Comcast a significant amount. ViacomCBS has a market value of $27.2 billion, while Roku is worth $55.8 billion.
A spokesperson for Comcast said the report is pure speculation.
