Oppenheimer issued a research note yesterday based on CableFAX’s 4/7 report that EchoStar’s [DISH] Charlie Ergen is prepared to drop several Turner nets, including CNN and Cartoon. Oppenheimer’s take: "We interpret the battles Mr Ergen is waging with programmers as his latest attempt to disrupt current trends which we think position EchoStar weaker strategically than DirecTV." The firm estimates that a shut-off would hurt DISH’s 2Q results. The positive case for such a move is that it could help persuade DC lawmakers to allow DBS to offer distant network digital signals if they’re not available via over-the-air, the note says. But Oppenheimer adds that it doesn’t think DISH’s programming battles are viewed favorably by DC officials working on regulation, such as the reauthorization of SHVIA.

The Daily

Subscribe

Rupert Murdoch to Step Down, Shift Role in November

Rupert Murdoch is stepping down as chairman of Fox Corp. and News Corp. The move will go into effect in mid-November at the annual general meeting of shareholders for each company, where Murdoch will be

Read the Full Issue
The Skinny is delivered on Tuesday and focuses on the cable profession. You'll stay in the know on the headlines, topics and special issues you value most. Sign Up

Calendar

Dec 6
2023 Most Powerful Women Awards Nomination close on September 8, 2023.
Full Calendar

Jobs

Seeking an INDUSTRY JOB?
VIEW JOBS

Hiring? In conjunction with our sister brand, Cynopsis, we are offering hiring managers a deep pool of media-savvy, skilled candidates at a range of experience levels and sectors, The result will be an even more robust industry job board, to help both employers and job seekers.

Contact [email protected] for more information.