As if there weren't enough streaming platforms to choose from, Paramount+ and Showtime are giving customers another option to consider.
The two entities are merging to form Paramount+ with Showtime, a move that will integrate all of the premium cable network's content into a premium streaming tier on Paramount+. With more households cutting their cable cords, integrating content onto a streaming platform will allow more eyes on Showtime's content, Bob Bakish, Paramount CEO, said in a statement.
"Now, with SHOWTIME's content integrated into our flagship streaming service, and select Paramount+ originals joining the linear offering, Paramount+ will become the definitive multi-platform brand in the streaming space -– and the first of its kind to integrate streaming and linear content in this way," he said.
Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of Paramount Media Networks and Showtime, said that investments will be diverted away from unsuccessful projects to clear a path for the cable network's hit shows to reach a global audience.
"As a part of Paramount+, we can put more resources into building out the lanes that have made the SHOWTIME brand more famous, as well as turning our hit shows into global hit franchises," he said.
More information on the merger is expected to be revealed in the coming weeks. Paramount Global, parent company of Paramount+, is set to report earnings on February 16.
Pilots at American Airlines have voted to authorize a strike, and Southwest Airlines pilots are preparing to join them, as unions put more pressure on the airlines to approve new contracts with hefty pay raises.
Cheddar News takes a look at The Day Ahead as the Federal Reserve's two-day meeting kicks off on Tuesday while earnings season continues with some big-name companies such as Ford, Pfizer, Starbucks and Uber on tap to report quarterly results. The JOLTS report is also due to be released ahead of April job numbers.
Dan Geltrude, managing partner of Geltrude & Co., joined Cheddar News to discuss why it's vital for a college student to begin budget preparations early for college tuition. "It's developing good financial habits," he said. "I'm a strong proponent that in high school, there should be some teaching, some course ... about personal finance."
Brian Vendig, president of MJP Wealth Advisors, joined Cheddar News to discuss the market ahead of the Federal Reserve's meeting on Wednesday and as investors digest JPMorgan's takeover of First Republic Bank, which was recently seized by regulators. A slew of earnings are also slated to be released this week as well.
