Media Briefing: Publishers’ revenue growth defies traffic declines, but tougher comparisons loom
The New York Times, People Inc., News Corp and Reuters report revenue growth despite AI disruption, but face tougher comparisons ahead.
This week's Media Briefing examines how major publishers such as The New York Times, People Inc., News Corp, and Reuters have been able to report strong growth in revenue despite declining referral traffic and the disruption brought by AI. The growth has been driven by a mix of subscriptions, advertising, and content licensing. However, these publishers face a common challenge as they prepare for the final part of the year: sustaining this momentum as their initial revenue gains make for more challenging comparisons.
AI licensing has proven to be a real revenue driver for People Inc. and Reuters, but the initial boost from these deals is becoming harder to replicate as these agreements mature. Meanwhile, The New York Times anticipates tougher year-over-year comparisons in the fourth quarter due to an increase in advertising supply expected in 2025.
News Corp's earnings revealed a mixed picture, with strong revenue growth in its Dow Jones business offset by declines in its News Media division.
Written by urgent.news from Digiday's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
