The global broadcasting and cable TV market size was estimated at $356.45 billion in 2024, according to Grand View Research. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4% from 2025 to 2030 and reach $449.91 billion. This is driven by the increasing demand for on-demand and live content, which is fueled by the rise in digital consumption and global connectivity. Viewers seek content in high-definition, which includes news, sports, and entertainment. Rising income levels and increased television ownership in today’s emerging markets are also behind this demand. Broadcasters capitalize on these trends by offering flexible subscription models and specialized content for a broader audience base.

This industry is supported by the governments, technological advancements, and evolving consumer demands. Government initiatives, such as subsidies and investments in digital infrastructure, are expanding access to broadcasting services, particularly in underserved areas. It’s capitalizing on digital platforms, which offer streaming and hybrid models to reach diverse audiences and cater to their preferences. Technological innovations, which include 5G, cloud-based broadcasting, and AI-powered personalization, are all enhancing the viewer experience and driving demand for higher-quality content.

NewscastStudio recently reported that the dominance of mobile devices in content consumption is fundamentally reshaping the broadcasting landscape. There are 4.88 billion smartphone users globally and mobiles account for over 60% of global internet traffic. Therefore, broadcasters are prioritizing mobile-first strategies. This shift necessitates a significant adaptation, moving beyond traditional television formats. Key changes include an emphasis on vertical video formats, which mirrors the dominant style on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Broadcasters are increasingly creating content specifically for mobile viewing by recognizing the need to optimize for smaller screens and shorter attention spans. Interactive elements like live polls, chats, and games are also being integrated to enhance viewer engagement and create the interactive nature of social media.

Production processes are now centered around mobile viewing experiences, and consider factors like background viewing and optimizing for limited bandwidth. The expansion of 5G networks is crucial for this, as it enables faster and more reliable data transmission. Advanced compression technologies are also vital for ensuring seamless streaming experiences, especially in areas with limited bandwidth. These changes reflect the need for broadcasters to be adaptable in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The modern broadcasting environment embraces mobile-first strategies and invests in innovative technologies. With that said, we’re here with a list of the 12 best broadcasting stocks to buy right now.

Methodology

We first sifted through ETFs, online rankings, and internet lists to compile a list of the top broadcasting stocks. We then selected the 12 stocks that were the most popular among elite hedge funds and that analysts were bullish on. The stocks are ranked in ascending order of the number of hedge funds that have stakes in them, as of Q3 2024. The hedge fund data was sourced from Insider Monkey’s database which tracks the moves of over 900 elite money managers.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points (see more details here).

12 Best Broadcasting Stocks to Buy Right Now

12. Curiositystream Inc. (NASDAQ:CURI)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 5

Curiositystream Inc. (NASDAQ:CURI) is a streaming service that specializes in high-quality documentary and factual content. It offers a range of programs on science, history, and nature among others. These are accessible across various devices.

The company’s direct subscription revenue surged by 13% year-over-year in Q3 2024, which was fueled by strategic partnerships. These included new agreements with multichannel video programming distributors in Europe and Latin America, expanding the reach of its PayTV channels. It also successfully launched fast channels on Samsung TV Plus. It rolled out new advertising-based video-on-demand packages with major platforms like Pluto, Tubi, and Roku. Content licensing efforts yielded positive results with the execution of nine agreements across various regions.

In December 2024, Curiositystream Inc. (NASDAQ:CURI) expanded its reach with the launch of its flagship FAST channel, Curiosity Now, on major platforms like Fubo, DirecTV, Sky UK, Xumo, and STARZ ON. It now offers a range of high-quality documentaries and series across various genres, which provide viewers with engaging and informative content. The company anticipates executing 20-30 new licensing agreements over the next several quarters, with the help of its extensive library of 300,000+ hours of content. This is expected to drive sequential top-line revenue growth.

11. Fubotv Inc. (NYSE:FUBO)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 9

Fubotv Inc. (NYSE:FUBO) operates a live TV streaming platform for live sports, news, and entertainment content in the US and internationally. Its platform allows customers to access content through different streaming devices, such as SmartTVs, mobile phones, tablets, and computers.

In Q3 2024, the company’s North American revenue experienced a 26% year-over-year increase, reaching $382.7 million. This was driven by a 24% surge in paid subscribers to 1.45 million. This growth trajectory signifies a positive trend for the company’s core live TV streaming business. In the first week of January, its stock price rose nearly 200% following the announcement of a merger with Disney’s Hulu+Live TV. Disney will hold a 70% stake in the combined entity, which will continue to operate under the Fubo name. This deal will see Fubotv Inc. (NYSE:FUBO) launch a sports and broadcasting offering that would feature prominent Disney channels like ABC, and ESPN among others.

Fubotv Inc. (NYSE:FUBO) projects continued growth in its broadcasting segment. It anticipates reaching 1.725 to 1.745 million paid subscribers in North America by the end of FY24, representing a 7% year-over-year increase at the midpoint. Revenue projections for the full year translate to an 18% year-over-year growth rate at the midpoint. This underscores its confidence in its ability to maintain an upward trajectory.