Top 5 Media Landscape Insights- November

Stay on top of today’s constantly changing media environment with DirectAvenue’s Top 5 Insights. We give you specific network updates and emerging media trends in a digestible format.

November 1, 2024

1. Content Spending Rises 9% To $126B- The six largest entertainment firms are increasing their content expenditures by 9%, reaching a total of $126 billion this year, as reported by Ampere Analysis, despite concerns about cost reductions in TV and film content. In 2024, this spending will account for 51% of total global entertainment expenditure, up from 48% the previous year, according to media analysts. A significant portion of this growth—32% or $40 billion—is attributed to investments in their own subscription streaming platforms, including Disney+, Peacock, Paramount+, and Max.
2. Both Boomers and Millennials are Increasingly Turning to Online Video as Part of their Shopping Journey- Video content is becoming a trusted tool across generations, helping shoppers see products in action and making the online shopping experience more interactive and informative. 44% of millennials and 42% of boomers are turning to video reviews and product demos to inform their purchasing decisions, highlighting a growing preference for visual, digital content across both generations.
3. Black Friday and Cyber Monday retail sales are forecast to rise 5% in the U.S- According to Bain, holiday spending is set to reach a record $75 billion. A survey from the consultancy revealed that 67% of consumers in countries like the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Australia plan to purchase half of their items online this holiday season. In the U.S., 55% anticipate starting their shopping next month. Additionally, an Experian poll found that nearly half (47%) will visit physical stores during the season, with boomers leading in this category.
4. Disney Leads Top Media Distributor driven by NFL, NCAA- Disney reclaimed the top position in Nielsen’s media distributor index, boosted by fall sports. programming. The index measures viewership across various platforms, including TV and streaming. Disney’s share increased by 17% from August to 11.3%, driven largely by a 101% surge for ESPN, a 165% rise for ESPN2, and a 25% increase for ABC affiliates. Fox Corp. saw an 18% rise in football viewership, while Amazon Prime Video’s grew by 13%.
5. Record Breaking Holiday Shopping Season- Adobe forecasts that U.S. online spending will reach $240.8 billion this year, reflecting an 8.4% increase from 2023. This growth is attributed to significant discounts and a rise in mobile shopping. With substantial markdowns on electronics, toys, and sporting goods, along with major promotions during Cyber Week, consumers are likely to leverage flexible payment methods like “buy now, pay later” and the influence of social media to optimize their holiday spending.