Disney Makes $52.4 Billion Deal for 21st Century Fox
Disney is buying 21st Century Fox assets for just over $52 Billion dollars in stock. Axios Media Reporter Sara Fischer breaks down what this deal means for the future of media consolidation.
Fischer says Disney has been trying to figure out how it can scale to compete against Netflix in the streaming service space. This deal will give Disney ownership of Fox's 30 percent stake in Hulu. It is worth noting this deal isn't quite complete, as it still awaits regulatory approval from the Department from Justice.
Recently, the DOJ sued to block the merger between AT&T and Time Warner. Fischer says Disney and Fox executive say this deal doesn't pose the same type of anti-competition problems as AT&T and Time Warner because they don't have a broadband service that reaches consumers directly. But Disney's pending stake in Hulu could give the mouse house favorable content access.
Starbucks’ decision to restrict its restrooms to paying customers has flushed out a wider problem: a patchwork of restroom use policies that varies by state and city. Starbucks announced last week a new code of conduct that says people need to make a purchase if they want to hang out or use the restroom. The coffee chain's policy change for bathroom privileges has left Americans confused and divided over who gets to go and when. The American Restroom Association, a public toilet advocacy group, was among the critics. Rules about restroom access in restaurants vary by state, city and county. The National Retail Federation says private businesses have a right to limit restroom use.
President Donald Trump is talking up a joint venture investing up to $500 billion for infrastructure tied to artificial intelligence by a new partnership formed by OpenAI, Oracle and SoftBank. The new entity, Stargate, will start building out data centers and the electricity generation needed for the further development of the fast-evolving AI in Texas, according to the White House. The initial investment is expected to be $100 billion and could reach five times that sum. While Trump has seized on similar announcements to show that his presidency is boosting the economy, there were already expectations of a massive buildout of data centers and electricity plants needed for the development of AI.
Chris Ruder, Spikeball Founder and CEO, explains how he and his friends put roundnet on the global map, plus, how Spikeball helps people "find their circle."
J.W. Roth, CEO of Venu Holding Corporation, discusses the company's IPO and plans to redefine live music entertainment with their fan founded, fan-owned model.
Variety's Clayton Davis discusses why more than just the 1% are struggling after the LA fires. Plus, how awards shows will pivot to help victims. Watch!
Emily Hosie, CEO of Rebelstork, explains the concept of Returns Recommerce, plus how her company raised $18M to address the industry-wide issue of returns.