The upcoming separation of NBC from a group of cable networks that have long supported its operations is set to take place in early 2026. Comcast, the corporate parent of NBC, announced on Wednesday that on January 2, it will spin off MSNBC, CNBC, and several other businesses into a new company named Versant.
Comcast shareholders will receive shares of Versant Class A or Class B common stock for every 25 shares of Comcast Class A or Class B common stock they hold as of the record date of December 16. The distribution of Versant shares is expected to be completed after the close of trading on Nasdaq on January 2, 2026.
Versant, the new publicly traded entity, will be overseen by CEO Mark Lazarus. It will consist of MSNBC, CNBC, E!, Oxygen, Golf Channel, USA, and various digital assets such as Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes. This move is seen as a strategic decision by Comcast to enhance the value of its NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks and Peacock streaming service, which will no longer be tied to a large group of cable networks facing competition from streaming platforms. NBCU will retain ownership of Bravo, a network with content that resonates well with streaming audiences.
The completion of the spin-off is contingent upon certain conditions, including the absence of any events or developments that would render the distribution inadvisable according to the Board’s judgment. Versant is expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol VSNT.
This separation marks a significant shift in the media landscape and highlights the evolving strategies of major media companies in adapting to the changing preferences and behaviors of audiences. The move aims to position NBC and its affiliated networks for continued success and growth in an increasingly competitive and dynamic industry.
