The EBU's Media Intelligence Service (MIS) has published a report in response to growing concern about the possible consequences of recent moves by telecom operators into pay-TV markets across the EU.  

The document, entitled  "The Intersection of Telecom and Pay-TV Markets in the EU", identifies the telecommunications companies and media operators that are active in both sectors, offering valuable facts and figures regarding the emergence of international players in the audiovisual market.

The acquisition of a 76.5% share in Kabeldeutschland by Vodafone in 2013, the purchase of the Premier League premium rights by BT in the UK and the increase of Telefonica's ownership of Canal + in Spain to 100% are some of the most recent examples of how telecommunications companies are actively targeting the pay-TV market. 

Additionally, the international expansion and consolidation of Liberty Global across Europe via the acquisition of major European cable operators or flagship content producers has led to concern amongst EBU Members, most recently in Belgium.

The report provides up-to-date information to Members about the penetration and concentration of the broadband and pay-TV markets in Europe. It explores how telecoms are entering the pay-TV business by acquiring major national players and offers information about the reaction of traditional operators.

The new publication is accompanied by comprehensive tables compiling details about the activities and performance of the top-10 telecoms and top-10 cable companies in Europe.

EBU Members can download the report via the Media Intelligence Portal.