RTL Group experienced significant growth in its streaming sector during the first half of 2025. The company saw a 15.3% year-on-year increase in streaming subscribers, reaching 7.2 million. This translated to a remarkable 27% surge in streaming revenue, totaling €235 million. Losses from streaming start-ups also decreased by over 50%, reaching €34 million.
This positive trend is attributed to several factors, including a rise in paying subscribers, increased subscription prices in Germany, and expanding advertising revenue on platforms like RTL+ in Germany and M6+ in France. Despite this success, the overall Group revenue declined by 3.2% to €2,781 million, primarily due to lower TV advertising and content revenue.
CEO Thomas Rabe stated, "the company continues to focus its portfolio on its primary business units and has generated over €2.7 billion from disposals, resulting in substantial cash returns to shareholders." The acquisition of Sky Deutschland from Comcast is a key strategic move aimed at bolstering its streaming business and diversifying revenue streams. RTL also extended its distribution partnership with Deutsche Telekom until at least 2030.
While adjusted EBITA decreased by 7.0% to €160 million, the company anticipates future growth. This positive outlook is fueled by potential economic improvements in Germany, increasing streaming profitability, and expected synergies from the Sky Deutschland acquisition (pending regulatory approval). They project increased operating profits in the coming years.