Reliance-Disney Merger Expected To Close By First Half Of 2025

Reliance Industries and Star India's merger is anticipated to be completed by the first half of 2025, according to a regulatory filing by The Walt Disney Company.

According to the business, “The Star India transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2025, subject to customary closing traditions, including regulatory approvals and government consents. If closing has not occurred by February 28, 2026, Star India or RIL may terminate the transaction.” 

The Walt Disney Company and RIL's Viacom18 signed a legally binding agreement on February 28, 2024, to unite their media operations in India and create a joint venture that will integrate the operations of Viacom18 and Star India.

Reliance Industries would invest Rs 11,500 crore as part of its expansion plan. The joint venture is valued at Rs 70,352 crore after money as a result of the transaction.

Following the aforementioned procedures, Reliance will possess 16.34 per cent of the joint venture, Viacom18 will control 46.82 per cent and Disney will own 36.84 per cent.

The joint venture will have the only authority to distribute Disney productions and movies in India. It already has licences for over 30,000 Disney IP assets.

The JV will be led by Nita M. Ambani, while Uday Shankar will serve as Vice Chairman and provide strategic direction.