Media: Challenged by Mobility and Multi-Screens

“The main issue for media groups in 2015 will be effectively integrating continuously evolving digital technology, especially in terms of their ability to release content on all devices in real time.”

Guillaume Devaux, Partner in France 

For the purpose of this barometer, Mazars analyzed the performance of the 100 largest publicly-listed media companies in North America and Europe.

“In a multi-connected environment, the smartphone is clearly a growth driver for media companies, especially the ability to identify geographic location, which allows advertisers to manage their placement more easily and efficiently”

Victor Wahba, Partner in US

Revenue of the media industry as a whole continued to thrive, with an increase of 5%, in spite of unfavorable worldwide economic conditions.  However, the performance gaps between European and North American markets and major and other media companies are widening. Some companies also experienced shrinking profit margins as a result of implementing a new digital strategy - often less profitable initially, while revenue streams and general processes get up to speed. 

Our Mazars Media Team conducted a detailed analysis of the major risk factors affecting media companies. These companies must adapt quickly, in response to the new business models emerging from ongoing digitalization, while also facing new risks regarding disclosures in their annual reports.

Contents

• General context: the economic crisis and new technology
• Part 1: Strong sales stimulated by developing technology
• Part 2: Profitability improving in North America; Europe struggling
• Part 3: How are media companies using liquid assets?
• What does the future hold? Increased convergence between activities in media