Reliance-Disney merger expected to be finalised by first half of 2025
The Indian media and entertainment landscape is set to witness a significant transformation with the impending merger of Star India with Reliance Industries, as announced by The Walt Disney Company in a recent regulatory filing. The merger, expected to be finalised by the first half of 2025, marks a strategic move that is poised to reshape the industry dynamics.
According to the regulatory filing, The Walt Disney Company stated, “The Star India transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2025, subject to customary closing traditions, including regulatory approvals and government consents. If closing has not occurred by February 28, 2026, Star India or RIL may terminate the transaction.” This timeline provides stakeholders with a clear roadmap for the completion of the merger, highlighting the meticulous planning and regulatory considerations involved in such significant corporate transactions.
The roots of this transformative merger can be traced back to February 28, 2024, when Reliance Industries’ Viacom18 entered into a binding agreement with The Walt Disney Company to merge their media operations in India. This landmark agreement paved the way for the formation of a joint venture that would combine the businesses of Viacom18 and Star India, two prominent players in the Indian media landscape.
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As part of its growth strategy, Reliance Industries is set to make a substantial investment of Rs 11,500 crore in the joint venture. The transaction values the combined entity at Rs 70,352 crore on a post-money basis, underscoring the significant synergies and growth potential that the merger is expected to unlock.
