Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: IPL void results in loss of 1.25 Crore Subscribers

Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: The downfall of Disney+ Hotstar seems unrelenting as the absence of the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to erode its subscriber base. The streaming giant lost a staggering 12.5 million (1.25 crore) paid customers in the April to June period, highlighting the significant impact of the IPL void.

Here’s an overview of the situation that has put Disney+ Hotstar in a challenging position : Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes

Struggling Subscribers

Disney+ Hotstar, once a dominant player in the streaming industry, witnessed a notable decline in its paying subscriber count. Its India-focused OTT platform experienced a 24% drop in paying subscribers, with the figure plunging to 40.4 million in the April-June quarter from 52.9 million in the previous quarter.

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Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: IPL Void Claims 1.25 Crore Subscribers

IPL’s Influence

The Indian Premier League (IPL) had long been a major draw for Disney+ Hotstar, contributing significantly to its subscriber numbers. The cricket extravaganza had propelled the platform to the forefront of India’s streaming landscape. However, the loss of IPL’s digital streaming rights to Viacom18 for the 2023-27 cycle dealt a severe blow to Disney+ Hotstar’s prospects.

Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: IPL Void Claims 1.25 Crore Subscribers

Revenue Contrasts

The revenue landscape between Disney+ Hotstar and its core counterpart, Disney+, presents a stark contrast. The average revenue per user (ARPU) for Disney+ Hotstar stands at $0.59, a considerable difference from the robust $6.58 ARPU reported by Core Disney+. This divergence underscores the challenge of maintaining financial stability for Disney+ Hotstar.

Decline Continues

Despite initial expectations that the subscriber base would stabilize, Disney+ Hotstar’s fortunes have taken a continuous downward trajectory. Since the end of September 2022, the platform has witnessed a steady decline in its subscriber numbers, shedding over 20 million customers in just nine months.

Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: IPL Void Claims 1.25 Crore Subscribers

Impact of Content Loss

Adding to its woes, Disney+ Hotstar ceased streaming HBO content, including popular shows like Game of Thrones and Succession, since March 31. The absence of compelling content has likely contributed to the platform’s struggles in retaining subscribers.

Changing Landscape

The merger of Star India and Disney in 2018 resulted in the formation of Disney+ Hotstar. However, recent talks about Walt Disney considering selling its India operations suggest a shifting landscape. This potential move adds a layer of uncertainty to the platform’s future trajectory.

Competition Intensifies

As the competition in India’s video OTT market heats up, other players are vying for the top spot. JioCinema, for instance, secured exclusive digital streaming rights for the IPL, reporting a peak viewership of 3.2 crore (32 million) concurrent viewers. The platform’s release of over 100 original films and shows underscores the intensifying battle for viewers’ attention.

Disney+ Hotstar’s Subscriber Woes: IPL Void Claims 1.25 Crore Subscribers

Disney+ Hotstar’s struggle serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the streaming industry and the importance of securing content rights that resonate with viewers. As the platform navigates its challenges, the future remains uncertain, with its parent company’s potential decisions casting a shadow on its path forward.

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