European media conglomerate RTL recently released its full fiscal year 2024 results, showing steady performance driven by a significant increase in streaming revenue and strong advertising returns. Majority-owned by German giant Bertelsmann, RTL reported group revenue of €6.3 billion, a slight decrease of 1.5% compared to the previous year. The company anticipates revenue to reach around €6.45 billion in 2025.
Total group profit for RTL amounted to €555 million for the fiscal year. The highlight of the report was the impressive 42% growth in annual streaming revenue, reaching €403 million. This growth was fueled by a 21% rise in paying subscribers in key markets such as Germany, Hungary, and France, along with a reduction in streaming start-up losses. The company stated that it is on track to achieve profitability in its streaming business by 2026.
Advertising revenue from RTL’s streaming services, such as RTL+ in Germany and M6+ in France, experienced double-digit growth, further contributing to the overall positive performance. CEO Thomas Rabe expressed optimism about the future, citing significant milestones in the streaming and content production segments that are expected to drive increased operating profits in the coming years.
On the Fremantle front, RTL’s global content business, revenue saw a slight decline from €2,266 billion in 2023 to €2,254 billion in 2024. However, with a reduction in overhead costs and the acquisition of Asacha Media Group, Fremantle achieved a record result and improved its Adjusted EBITA margin. Rabe outlined plans to further enhance Fremantle’s margin to 9% by 2026, with the acquisition of Asacha including Italy’s Picomedia, known for producing the popular TV series “The Sea Outside.”
Looking ahead, RTL aims to reach a full-year revenue target of €3 billion for Fremantle in the mid-term through strategic acquisitions and partnerships with creative talent. The company is also awaiting regulatory approvals for the sale of RTL Nederland, with a €1.1 billion transaction expected to close in the second quarter of the year.
Overall, RTL’s stable financial performance in 2024, particularly in the streaming and content production sectors, signals a promising outlook for the company’s future growth and profitability. The company’s strategic initiatives and investments are poised to drive continued success in the evolving media landscape.
