Fubo and Hulu Live TV Merger Approved by Shareholders: A Potential Game-Changer in the Streaming Industry

Live sports streaming service Fubo has secured shareholder approval for its transaction with Disney, paving the way for a merger with Hulu Live TV. The deal, initially announced in January, is set to reshape the streaming landscape by positioning Hulu as a formidable competitor to market leader YouTube.

YouTube TV currently boasts around 10 million subscribers, primarily due to its extensive live sports content. With Hulu Live TV and Fubo combined, this figure stands at approximately 6 million subscribers, signaling a strategic move to bridge the competitive gap.

If successfully executed, the merger could offer sports enthusiasts more flexible viewing options. Industry insiders suggest that Fubo may introduce a new Hulu-branded package as an attractive offering for streamers, bundling access to Disney’s trio of streaming services – Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN – at no extra cost. Fubo recently unveiled a sports-only package with a lower price point.

However, regulatory approvals are still pending for the transaction due to its potential impact on market competition and reduction in the number of independent streaming players. Upon approval, Disney will control approximately 70% of Fubo, yet the company assures that Fubo will continue to be available as an independent offering.

David Gandler, co-founder and CEO of Fubo, will oversee the combined operations of Fubo and Hulu Live TV following the completion of the transaction.