Factual
Discovery ends Q3 with $20 mn DTC subs, $425 mn next generation revenues
Mumbai: Discovery Inc ended Q3 with 20 million DTC (direct-to-consumer) subscribers, an increase of three million subscribers since the end of Q2. The company generated $425 million of next generation revenues (growth of approximately 100 per cent versus the prior year quarter) with global D2C ARPU of approximately $ five and $ seven blended discovery+ ARPU in the US, supported by our over $10 ARPU for the discovery+ Ad Lite product.
Discovery Inc recently launched discovery+ in Canada and the Philippines in addition to finalising a multi-year US distribution agreements with DirecTV and Verizon. The company also successfully broadcast the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games, which reached over 372 million people in Europe across TV and digital platforms, and delivered 1.3 billion minutes of Olympics content on its streaming services, it said in a statement.
Total US networks revenues increased 12 per cent to $1,858 million compared to the prior year quarter. Total revenue reported was $3,150 million; increased 23 per cent compared to the prior year quarter.
Among the reporting segments, starting with the US, Q3 advertising revenues increased five per cent year-over-year. There was strong demand for discovery+ Ad Lite product, which contributed to the growth in the quarter. Distribution revenues increased 21 per cent year-over-year, largely due to the continued growth of discovery+ as well as linear affiliate rate increases, in part helped by successful renewals with DirectTV, Verizon, Hulu, and Altice.
International advertising increased 26 per cent versus last year as the global advertising marketplace continued to recover from the pandemic. International distribution revenues grew six per cent during the quarter, primarily due to the growth in direct-to-consumer subscribers, which have nearly tripled over the past year across our footprint outside the US, in part aided by Olympics sign-ups.
Investment losses for the quarter were in the low $200 million range, slightly better than last quarter.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
